Judges 11:20

But Sihon would not trust Israel to pass through his territory. So he gathered all his people, encamped in Jahaz, and fought with Israel.

Study Bible

But Sihon would not trust Israel to pass through his territory.
Sihon was the king of the Amorites, a people known for their warrior culture and resistance to foreign entities. The Israelites, led by Moses, requested peaceful passage through the land of the Amorites, promising not to harm or take anything. However, Sihon's refusal reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of protecting territorial integrity against potential threats. This distrust can be seen as a lack of faith or understanding of God's plan for Israel, contrasting with the faith shown by Rahab in Joshua 2. The Amorites' resistance is also a fulfillment of God's earlier promise to Abraham that his descendants would face opposition from the inhabitants of Canaan (Genesis 15:16).

So he gathered all his people,
Sihon's decision to gather his people indicates a mobilization for war, a common response to perceived threats in ancient times. This action demonstrates the collective nature of ancient warfare, where entire communities, not just professional soldiers, would be involved in defense efforts. The gathering of people for battle also highlights the unity and loyalty within the Amorite kingdom, which contrasts with the internal divisions often seen in Israel's history.

encamped in Jahaz,
Jahaz was a strategic location east of the Jordan River, significant for its position on the King's Highway, a major trade route. This choice of encampment suggests Sihon's intent to control access and movement, a tactical decision to confront Israel in a place advantageous for defense. Archaeological evidence supports the existence of fortified sites in this region, indicating its importance in military strategy. The encampment at Jahaz sets the stage for a significant confrontation, reminiscent of other biblical battles where geography played a crucial role, such as the battle of Jericho.

and fought with Israel.
The battle between Sihon and Israel is a pivotal moment in Israel's journey to the Promised Land. It marks the beginning of Israel's military conquests east of the Jordan, fulfilling God's promise to give them the land. This conflict is not just a physical battle but also a spiritual one, as it demonstrates God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people. The victory over Sihon is later recounted in Psalms and by the prophets as a testament to God's might (Psalm 135:10-12, Jeremiah 48:45-46). This battle also prefigures the ultimate victory of Christ over spiritual enemies, as Israel's triumph foreshadows the deliverance and inheritance promised to believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sihon
The king of the Amorites who ruled in Heshbon. He is known for his refusal to allow the Israelites to pass through his land peacefully, leading to conflict.

2. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, led by Jephthah at this time, seeking passage through the land of the Amorites on their journey to the Promised Land.

3. Jahaz
The location where Sihon and his troops camped and engaged in battle with Israel. It is a significant site of conflict in the account.

4. Amorites
A group of ancient people living in the land that Israel sought to pass through. They were often in conflict with Israel during their journey to Canaan.

5. Jephthah
The judge of Israel at the time, known for his leadership and his vow, which is a significant part of his account in the Book of Judges.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
The refusal of Sihon and the subsequent battle highlight God's control over the events. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over the circumstances of their lives.

Obedience and Faithfulness
Israel's journey required obedience to God's commands. Similarly, Christians are called to faithfully follow God's guidance, even when facing opposition.

God's Faithfulness in Battles
Just as God delivered Israel from Sihon, He is faithful to deliver His people from spiritual battles today. Believers can rely on God's strength and faithfulness.

The Consequences of Hard Hearts
Sihon's hardened heart led to his downfall. This serves as a warning against resisting God's will and the importance of maintaining a soft heart towards God.

The Importance of Seeking Peace
Israel initially sought peace with Sihon. Christians are encouraged to seek peace with others, reflecting Christ's love and peace in their interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Sihon and Israel illustrate the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the lesson of obedience and faithfulness from Israel's journey to our daily walk with Christ?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced a "battle" in your life. How did you see God's faithfulness in that situation, similar to Israel's victory over Sihon?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our hearts remain soft and receptive to God's will, avoiding the hard-heartedness seen in Sihon?

5. How can we actively seek peace in our relationships and communities, following the example of Israel's initial peaceful approach to Sihon?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:21-24
This passage provides the background to the conflict with Sihon, detailing Israel's request for passage and Sihon's refusal, leading to battle.

Deuteronomy 2:30-31
These verses explain that God hardened Sihon's heart, which led to his refusal and subsequent defeat, showing God's sovereignty in Israel's journey.

Psalm 136:17-22
This psalm recounts God's enduring love and faithfulness in giving Israel victory over kings like Sihon, emphasizing God's role in Israel's victories.