Deuteronomy 2:35

We carried off for ourselves only the livestock and the plunder from the cities we captured.

Study Bible

We took only the livestock
This phrase highlights the Israelites' actions during their conquest. The Hebrew root for "took" is לָקַח (laqach), which means to take, seize, or capture. This action signifies God's provision for His people, as they were allowed to take livestock, which was essential for their sustenance and economic stability. In the ancient Near Eastern context, livestock represented wealth and prosperity, indicating that God was providing for the Israelites' needs as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

and the plunder
The term "plunder" comes from the Hebrew שָׁלָל (shalal), meaning spoil or booty. This reflects the common practice in ancient warfare where victors would take goods from the defeated as a reward for their victory. Theologically, this can be seen as God's blessing upon Israel, granting them the resources necessary for their survival and growth. It also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

from the cities we captured
The phrase "cities we captured" refers to the specific victories God granted the Israelites over their enemies. The Hebrew word for "captured" is לָכַד (lakad), which means to capture or seize. This emphasizes the divine assistance in their military conquests, as these victories were not merely by human effort but by God's intervention. Historically, the capture of cities was a significant achievement, as cities were fortified and represented centers of power and control. This underscores the miraculous nature of Israel's victories and God's sovereignty in leading His people to triumph over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God, led by Moses, who are journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is recounting their journey and God's commands to them.

3. Sihon, King of Heshbon
The Amorite king whose land was conquered by the Israelites as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

4. Heshbon
The city and region ruled by King Sihon, which was taken by the Israelites.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The period of 40 years during which the Israelites wandered in the desert before entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Faithfulness
The Israelites' victory and acquisition of plunder demonstrate God's faithfulness in providing for His people. Just as He provided for Israel, He provides for us today.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' success was contingent upon their obedience to God's instructions. Our spiritual victories often depend on our willingness to follow God's guidance.

Spiritual Warfare and Victory
The physical battles of the Israelites symbolize the spiritual battles we face. Through God's strength, we can overcome challenges and claim spiritual victories.

Stewardship of God's Blessings
The plunder taken by the Israelites was a blessing from God. We are called to be good stewards of the resources and blessings God provides us.

Trust in God's Timing
The Israelites had to wait for God's timing to enter the Promised Land. We must trust in God's perfect timing for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the victory over King Sihon illustrate God's faithfulness to the Israelites, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

2. In what ways does the obedience of the Israelites to God's commands serve as a model for our spiritual journey today?

3. How can the concept of spiritual warfare, as seen in the Israelites' battles, be applied to the challenges we face in our daily lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can be good stewards of the blessings and resources God has given us, similar to how the Israelites handled their plunder?

5. How can we learn to trust in God's timing for the fulfillment of His promises, as the Israelites had to do during their wilderness journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:21-31
This passage provides the background of the conflict with King Sihon and the capture of his land, which is recounted in Deuteronomy 2.

Joshua 12:1-6
This passage lists the kings defeated by Moses and the Israelites, including Sihon, and the territories they acquired.

Psalm 135:10-12
This psalm praises God for giving the lands of the defeated kings, including Sihon, to Israel as an inheritance.

Romans 8:37
This New Testament verse speaks to believers being more than conquerors through Christ, drawing a parallel to the Israelites' victories through God's provision.