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Book of Judges - Chapter 11 - Verse 20

11:20
But Sihon trusted not Israel to pass through his coast: but Sihon gathered all his people together, and pitched in Jahaz, and fought against Israel.

Meaning

The verse you are referring to describes the confrontation between the Israelites and King Sihon of the Amorites. The Amorites were a powerful nation living east of the Jordan River, and Moses had asked Sihon for permission to pass through his land peacefully to reach their destination. However, Sihon refused to trust the Israelites and instead gathered his people to fight against them. This verse portrays a pivotal moment in the Israelites' journey towards the Promised Land, as they face opposition and have to rely on God's strength and guidance to overcome the challenges ahead. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in the face of adversity, and highlights the Israelites' dependence on God for protection and victory. By understanding the context and significance of this verse, readers can appreciate the larger themes of trust, power, and divine intervention that are woven throughout the scriptures.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see the story of Sihon, the king of the Amorites, who refused to allow the Israelites to pass through his territory. As a result, he gathered all his people and prepared for battle against Israel. This refusal to trust God's plan for the Israelites ultimately led to his downfall. From a theological perspective, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of not having faith in God's promises and failing to acknowledge His sovereignty. Sihon's actions highlight the importance of trusting in God's guidance and submitting to His will, even when faced with obstacles or challenges. Through this story, we can learn the lesson that trusting in God's plan and following His lead will ultimately lead to victory, while resisting His will can lead to defeat. This verse underscores the biblical theme of trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of obedience and reliance on Him in all circumstances.

American Standard Version

But Sihon trusted not Israel to pass through his border; but Sihon gathered all his people together, and encamped in Jahaz, and fought against Israel.
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