Judges 11:21

Then the LORD, the God of Israel, delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel, who defeated them. So Israel took possession of all the land of the Amorites who inhabited that country,

Study Bible

Then the LORD, the God of Israel
This phrase establishes the divine authority and sovereignty of God over Israel. The Hebrew name for God here is "Yahweh," which signifies His eternal presence and covenant relationship with Israel. Historically, this underscores the unique identity of Israel as a nation chosen by God, distinct from the surrounding pagan nations. The acknowledgment of God as the "God of Israel" reinforces the idea that Israel's victories and existence are attributed to divine intervention and favor.

delivered Sihon and all his people
The word "delivered" in Hebrew is "nathan," meaning to give or hand over. This implies that the victory over Sihon was not by Israel's might but by God's providence. Sihon was the king of the Amorites, a powerful and hostile nation. The historical context here is crucial, as it reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan. This act of deliverance is a testament to God's faithfulness and His power to overcome formidable enemies.

into the hand of Israel
The phrase "into the hand" signifies control and possession. In Hebrew, "yad" (hand) often symbolizes power and authority. By delivering Sihon into Israel's hand, God is granting them dominion and victory. This is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where God empowers His people to conquer and possess the land He promised to their forefathers. It serves as a reminder of God's active role in the battles and affairs of His people.

so they defeated them
The word "defeated" indicates a complete and decisive victory. The Hebrew root "nakah" means to strike or smite. This victory is not just a military success but a divine act of judgment against the Amorites. It highlights the righteousness of God's cause and the fulfillment of His promises. The defeat of Sihon and his people is a demonstration of God's justice and His commitment to His covenant with Israel.

and Israel took possession of the land
"Possession" in Hebrew is "yarash," which means to inherit or occupy. This signifies the transition from promise to fulfillment, as Israel begins to inhabit the land God swore to give them. The act of taking possession is both a physical and spiritual inheritance, symbolizing the realization of God's promises. It also serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate inheritance believers have in Christ, as promised in the New Testament.

of the Amorites, who inhabited that land
The Amorites were one of the many Canaanite tribes inhabiting the Promised Land. Their mention here is significant, as it underscores the fulfillment of God's command to drive out the inhabitants of Canaan due to their idolatry and wickedness. Historically, the Amorites were known for their fortified cities and military prowess, making Israel's victory over them a testament to God's power. This conquest is a reminder of the spiritual battles believers face and the assurance of victory through faith in God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who actively intervenes in the history of His people.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, led by Jephthah at this time, engaged in conflict with the Amorites.

3. Sihon
The king of the Amorites, who opposed Israel and was defeated by them.

4. Amorites
A group of people living in the land that Israel was to possess, representing opposition to God's promises.

5. The Land of the Amorites
The territory that Israel took possession of after defeating Sihon and his people.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty
God is in control of history and the affairs of nations. He orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes and promises.

Faith and Obedience
Israel's victory was contingent upon their faith in God's promise and their obedience to His commands. Believers today are called to trust and obey God, even in the face of formidable challenges.

God's Faithfulness
The defeat of Sihon and the Amorites is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. This encourages believers to rely on God's promises in their own lives.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel faced physical enemies, Christians face spiritual battles. Ephesians 6:10-18 reminds believers to put on the full armor of God to stand firm against spiritual opposition.

Inheritance and Possession
The land represents the inheritance God promised to Israel. For Christians, this can symbolize the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ, which we are called to claim and live out.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Israel's victory over Sihon and the Amorites demonstrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of faith and obedience seen in this passage to our own spiritual battles?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in this passage relate to the spiritual inheritance promised to believers in the New Testament?

4. What are some modern-day "Amorites" or challenges that believers face, and how can we rely on God's promises to overcome them?

5. How does understanding the historical context of this passage enhance our appreciation of God's actions and character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 2:24-36
This passage provides a detailed account of the battle against Sihon and the Amorites, emphasizing God's command and promise to deliver the land into Israel's hands.

Numbers 21:21-31
Offers another account of Israel's encounter with Sihon, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to give Israel victory over their enemies.

Psalm 136:17-22
Celebrates God's enduring love and faithfulness in giving Israel victory over kings like Sihon, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and deliverance.