This verse from Deuteronomy 3:1 is part of the historical narrative of the Israelites' journey after wandering in the wilderness. Let's break it down:
"Then we turned, and went up the way to Bashan.": After a previous encounter and victory (likely against King Sihon of Heshbon, as described in Deuteronomy 2), the Israelites changed direction and headed north towards the region of Bashan. Bashan was known for its fertile land and strong, fortified cities.
"Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people...": Og was the ruler of Bashan, a powerful and imposing figure often associated with the Rephaim, a race of giants. When he heard of the Israelites approaching, he mobilized his army.
"...to battle at Edrei.": Edrei was a city within Bashan and was chosen as the location for the impending battle between the Israelites and Og's forces. It likely held strategic importance, although the text doesn't explicitly state why it was chosen.
In essence, this verse sets the stage for a significant battle. It introduces a new antagonist, Og, and highlights the Israelites' continued movement through the land as they approached the Promised Land. It also foreshadows the conflict to come. The passage serves to demonstrate the challenges the Israelites faced as they claimed their inheritance.
This verse from Deuteronomy 3:1 is part of the historical narrative of the Israelites' journey after wandering in the wilderness. Let's break it down:
"Then we turned, and went up the way to Bashan.": After a previous encounter and victory (likely against King Sihon of Heshbon, as described in Deuteronomy 2), the Israelites changed direction and headed north towards the region of Bashan. Bashan was known for its fertile land and strong, fortified cities.
"Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people...": Og was the ruler of Bashan, a powerful and imposing figure often associated with the Rephaim, a race of giants. When he heard of the Israelites approaching, he mobilized his army.
"...to battle at Edrei.": Edrei was a city within Bashan and was chosen as the location for the impending battle between the Israelites and Og's forces. It likely held strategic importance, although the text doesn't explicitly state why it was chosen.
In essence, this verse sets the stage for a significant battle. It introduces a new antagonist, Og, and highlights the Israelites' continued movement through the land as they approached the Promised Land. It also foreshadows the conflict to come. The passage serves to demonstrate the challenges the Israelites faced as they claimed their inheritance.