Deuteronomy Chapter 2 — Wilderness Wanderings and Victory
Moses recalls how Israel bypassed the lands of Edom, Moab, and Ammon by God's command before conquering the Amorite king Sihon.
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Notable Verses
Deuteronomy 2:7
“For the LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has known your walking through this great wilderness. These forty years, the LORD your God has been with you. You have lacked nothing.”
This verse emphasizes God's faithful provision and constant presence during Israel's long period of wandering.
Deuteronomy 2:24
“Rise up, take your journey, and pass over the valley of the Arnon. Behold, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land; begin to possess it, and contend with him in battle.”
This marks the official transition from wandering to the active possession of the land promised by God.
Chapter Summary
Deuteronomy 2 continues Moses' historical review, focusing on the conclusion of the forty-year wilderness period. Moses reminds the Israelites that God specifically forbade them from attacking the descendants of Esau in Seir or the descendants of Lot in Moab and Ammon, as God had already granted those specific lands to those nations as an inheritance. Moses highlights God's continuous provision during their wandering, noting that they lacked nothing throughout the decades. Once the generation of warriors who had rebelled at Kadesh Barnea had passed away, Israel was commanded to cross the Arnon. Although Moses offered terms of peace to Sihon, king of Heshbon, the king refused passage. Consequently, God delivered Sihon into Israel's hands, resulting in their first major territorial conquest on the eastern side of the Jordan River.
Frequently Asked Questions
God commanded the Israelites not to contend with these nations because He had already given those specific lands as a possession to the descendants of Esau and Lot. This demonstrates God's sovereignty over the territories and inheritances of all nations.
The text describes these groups as ancient, tall, and numerous peoples who inhabited the lands before the Moabites and Ammonites. They are compared to the Anakim, who were known for their great stature.
When Sihon refused the peaceful request for passage, God delivered him and his land into Israel's hands. The Israelites defeated his army and took possession of his cities, marking their first major victory in the region.
Study Note
The mention of crossing the Brook Zered is a significant chronological marker, indicating the end of the thirty-eight-year period of judgment following the rebellion at Kadesh Barnea.
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