Deuteronomy 3:5

All these cities were fortified with high walls and gates and bars, and there were many more unwalled villages.

Study Bible

All these cities
This phrase refers to the cities of Bashan, a region east of the Jordan River, which the Israelites conquered under Moses' leadership. The Hebrew word for "cities" is "עָרִים" (arim), indicating not just urban centers but also places of significant strategic and economic importance. Historically, these cities were part of the Amorite kingdom, and their conquest demonstrated God's faithfulness in delivering the Promised Land to Israel.

were fortified
The Hebrew root "בָּצַר" (batsar) means to make inaccessible or to enclose. This suggests that these cities were well-defended and strategically important. The fortification of cities was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, serving as a defense against invaders. The fact that these cities were fortified highlights the miraculous nature of Israel's victory, emphasizing God's power and provision.

with high walls
The phrase "high walls" underscores the formidable nature of these cities. In ancient times, high walls were a primary defense mechanism, symbolizing strength and security. The Hebrew word "גָּבוֹהַּ" (gavoah) for "high" conveys not just physical height but also the imposing nature of these defenses. The Israelites' ability to conquer such cities is a testament to divine intervention.

and gates and bars
Gates were crucial for controlling access to a city, and bars provided additional security. The Hebrew word for "gates" is "שַׁעַר" (sha'ar), and "bars" is "בְּרִיחַ" (beriach). These elements of city defense illustrate the comprehensive security measures in place, which would have been daunting to any attacking force. The overcoming of such defenses by the Israelites highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises.

besides a great many unwalled villages
This phrase contrasts the fortified cities with the more vulnerable unwalled villages. The Hebrew word for "villages" is "פְּרָזוֹת" (perazot), indicating open or rural settlements. These villages, while numerous, lacked the defenses of the cities, making them easier targets. The mention of both fortified cities and unwalled villages demonstrates the thoroughness of Israel's conquest and God's provision of the land in its entirety.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is recounting their journey and victories as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the land promised to them by God.

3. Og, King of Bashan
The Amorite king defeated by the Israelites, whose territory included the fortified cities mentioned in this verse.

4. Bashan
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land and strong cities, which was conquered by the Israelites.

5. Fortified Cities
These cities represent the strength and security of the enemy, yet they were overcome by the Israelites through God's power.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The fortified cities symbolize human strength and security, yet they fall before God's will. Trust in God's sovereignty over all circumstances.

Faith Over Fear
The Israelites faced daunting obstacles, yet their faith in God's promises led to victory. In our lives, faith should triumph over fear of the unknown or seemingly impossible challenges.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites faced physical fortified cities, Christians face spiritual strongholds. Rely on God's power and spiritual weapons to overcome these challenges.

Preparation and Obedience
The Israelites' victory was preceded by preparation and obedience to God's commands. Prepare spiritually and obey God's word to see His promises fulfilled.

Community and Support
The mention of unwalled villages alongside fortified cities highlights the importance of community. Support and protect one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the victory over fortified cities in Deuteronomy 3:5 encourage you to trust God with the "fortified" challenges in your life?

2. In what ways can the account of the Israelites' conquest of Bashan inspire you to face your own spiritual battles?

3. How can the concept of spiritual strongholds in 2 Corinthians 10:4 be applied to personal struggles you are currently facing?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you are spiritually prepared and obedient to God's word, as the Israelites were before their victories?

5. How can you foster a sense of community and support within your church or small group, similar to the unwalled villages mentioned in the passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
The fall of Jericho, another fortified city, demonstrates God's power in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Psalm 18:29
David speaks of God's strength enabling him to leap over walls, symbolizing divine assistance in overcoming challenges.

2 Corinthians 10:4
Paul discusses the spiritual weapons that have divine power to demolish strongholds, connecting to the theme of overcoming fortified cities.