Deuteronomy 3:13

To the half-tribe of Manasseh I gave the rest of Gilead and all of Bashan, the kingdom of Og. (The entire region of Argob, the whole territory of Bashan, used to be called the land of the Rephaim.)

Study Bible

To the rest of the Gilead
The term "Gilead" refers to a mountainous region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. In Hebrew, "Gilead" (גִּלְעָד) can mean "heap of testimony" or "rocky region." This area was significant for its strategic location and resources. Historically, Gilead was a place of refuge and healing, symbolizing God's provision and protection for His people. The "rest" of Gilead indicates the portion not previously allocated, emphasizing God's abundant provision for the tribes of Israel.

and all of Bashan
Bashan was a fertile and prosperous region known for its rich pastures and strong cattle. The Hebrew name "Bashan" (בָּשָׁן) suggests a place of fertility and abundance. This area was renowned for its oak trees and livestock, symbolizing strength and prosperity. The inclusion of "all of Bashan" highlights the completeness of God's gift to His people, ensuring they had everything needed for sustenance and growth.

the kingdom of Og
Og was one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants, and his kingdom represented formidable opposition. The mention of "the kingdom of Og" underscores the miraculous victory God granted Israel over seemingly insurmountable foes. Historically, Og's defeat was a testament to God's power and faithfulness, reinforcing the belief that no enemy is too great for God to overcome on behalf of His people.

I gave to the half-tribe of Manasseh
The allocation to the "half-tribe of Manasseh" reflects the division of the tribe of Joseph into two half-tribes: Ephraim and Manasseh. This division was a fulfillment of Jacob's blessing in Genesis, where he adopted Joseph's sons as his own. The half-tribe of Manasseh receiving this land signifies God's faithfulness to His promises and the continuation of His covenant blessings through the generations.

(The whole region of Argob in Bashan
Argob was a district within Bashan, known for its fortified cities and strongholds. The Hebrew word "Argob" (אַרְגֹּב) can mean "heap of clods" or "stony." This region's mention highlights the strength and security provided by God to His people. Archaeological findings suggest that Argob was a well-defended area, symbolizing the spiritual fortification God offers to those who trust in Him.

used to be called the land of the Rephaim.)
The "Rephaim" were an ancient people known for their great size and strength, often associated with giants. The Hebrew term "Rephaim" (רְפָאִים) can also imply "shades" or "spirits," indicating a mysterious and formidable presence. The reference to the land of the Rephaim serves as a reminder of God's power to conquer even the most daunting challenges. It underscores the theme of divine victory and the transformation of a land once associated with fear into a place of blessing for God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It was part of the territory given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. Bashan
A fertile and prosperous region known for its strong cities and mighty oaks. It was ruled by King Og before being conquered by the Israelites.

3. Og, King of Bashan
One of the last of the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants. His defeat by the Israelites is a testament to God's power and faithfulness.

4. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. They received a portion of the land east of the Jordan.

5. Rephaim
An ancient people known for their great size and strength, often associated with giants in biblical texts.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to the tribes demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the inheritance of the land.

Overcoming Giants with God's Help
The defeat of Og, a giant, symbolizes overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges with God's assistance. Believers can trust God to help them face their own "giants."

The Importance of Obedience and Trust
The tribes' willingness to settle in the land and trust God's provision serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan.

Inheritance and Legacy
The division of the land among the tribes highlights the importance of spiritual inheritance and the legacy we leave for future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to the half-tribe of Manasseh reflect God's faithfulness to His promises? Consider other instances in the Bible where God fulfills His promises.

2. What can we learn from the Israelites' conquest of Bashan about facing challenges in our own lives? How does this relate to the concept of spiritual warfare?

3. In what ways does the account of the Rephaim and King Og encourage us to trust in God's power over seemingly insurmountable obstacles?

4. How does the division of land among the tribes of Israel illustrate the importance of spiritual inheritance and legacy? How can we apply this to our own lives and families?

5. Reflect on the significance of obedience and trust in God's plan as demonstrated by the tribes settling in Gilead and Bashan. How can we cultivate a similar attitude in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter provides background on the request of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle in the land east of the Jordan, including Gilead and Bashan.

Joshua 13
Details the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, including the allocation of Gilead and Bashan to the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Psalm 22
Mentions the "bulls of Bashan," symbolizing strength and opposition, which can be connected to the formidable nature of the region and its inhabitants.