Book of Joshua - Chapter 12 - Verse 5

This verse from the Book of Deuteronomy describes the extent of the territory that was conquered by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses. Mount Hermon, Salcah, Bashan, Geshurites, Maachathites, and Gilead are all mentioned as places where the Israelites reigned. These territories were located in the region of modern-day Jordan and Syria. The mention of Sihon, the king of Heshbon, indicates that the Israelites had defeated the king and took control of his kingdom. The Geshurites and Maachathites were neighboring tribes whose borders were also included in the territory conquered by the Israelites. This verse shows the extent of the military conquests of the Israelites as they journeyed towards the Promised Land. It is a reminder of the historical context in which these events took place and the challenges faced by the ancient Israelites in establishing themselves in the land that was promised to them by God.

Mount Hermon, Salcah, and Bashan are all significant locations in the Old Testament. Mount Hermon was considered a holy site believed to be the place where the fallen angels descended to earth according to some Jewish tradition. Salcah was a city on the eastern border of Bashan known for its fortifications and strategic importance. Bashan itself was a fertile region east of the Jordan River known for its abundance of cattle. The reference to the borders of the Geshurites and Maachathites is notable as these were neighboring kingdoms that were sometimes in conflict with the Israelites. The mention of half Gilead and Sihon king of Heshbon highlights the territorial extent of the reign being described. This verse serves as a geographical marker of the conquests of various Israelite kings and provides insight into the political landscape of the region during biblical times.