Og and Sihon: Kings Defeated to Prove God’s Power

Og and Sihon: Kings Defeated to Prove God’s Power

The victories over Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan marked a turning point in Israel’s wilderness journey. These battles were celebrated for generations as proof that God keeps His promises and gives His people victory.

Name & Etymology

Sihon (סִיחוֹן, Sîḥōn, pronounced see-hone) likely means “sweeping away” or “striker down.”

Og (עֹג, ʿOg, pronounced og) means “round” or “long-necked.”

In the Septuagint (LXX), their names appear as Σηών (Seon) and Ωγ (Og).

Biblical Narrative (The Story)

Their accounts are found in Numbers 21 and celebrated in Deuteronomy 2–3, Psalm 135:10–12, and Psalm 136:19–20.

• Sihon, King of the Amorites: Israel requested safe passage through his territory. “But King Sihon refused to let them cross his land. Instead, he mobilized his entire army and attacked” (Numbers 21:23, NLT). God gave Israel victory, and they occupied his land.

• Og, King of Bashan: Soon after, Og attacked. “The Lord said to Moses, ‘Do not be afraid of him, for I have given you victory over Og and his entire army’” (Numbers 21:34, NLT). Israel defeated him, seizing sixty fortified cities (Deuteronomy 3:4–5).

Historical & Cultural Context

Both kings ruled strategic regions east of the Jordan River, controlling key trade routes and fortified cities. Og was remembered as the last of the Rephaites, a race of giants, making the victory even more dramatic (Deuteronomy 3:11).

Character & Themes

Og and Sihon represent obstacles to God’s promises. Their power and aggression highlight God’s sovereignty in giving Israel victory over seemingly invincible foes.

Connection to Christ

Their defeat foreshadows Christ’s ultimate victory over all spiritual enemies. Just as God overcame these kings, Jesus conquers sin and death.

Theological Significance

The repeated biblical references to their downfall remind us that God’s victories are worth remembering and retelling, strengthening faith for future challenges.

Myths & Misconceptions

• Myth: Israel expanded by mere military might.

  
  

  Truth: The victories were explicitly attributed to God’s intervention.

• Myth: Og was mythical.

  
  

  Truth: Scripture presents him as a real historical king, though of unusual size and strength.

Application

The defeats of Sihon and Og encourage believers to trust God when facing overwhelming challenges, knowing that He goes before His people.

Conclusion

Og and Sihon’s downfall became a permanent testimony to God’s faithfulness. Their story urges us to remember and celebrate God’s victories in our own lives.