share torah logo

Deuteronomy 2:32 - Enemy confronts Divine destiny?

Deuteronomy 2:32 - דברים 2:32

Hebrew Text

וַיֵּצֵא סִיחֹן לִקְרָאתֵנוּ הוּא וְכָל־עַמּוֹ לַמִּלְחָמָה יָהְצָה׃

English Translation

Then Siĥon came out against us, he and all his people, to fight at Yahaż.

Transliteration

Vayetze Sichon likrateinu hu vechol-amo lamilkhamah Yahatzah.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֵּצֵא֩ סִיחֹ֨ן לִקְרָאתֵ֜נוּ ה֧וּא וְכׇל־עַמּ֛וֹ לַמִּלְחָמָ֖ה יָֽהְצָה׃
וַיֵּצֵא֩ סִיחֹ֨ן לִקְרָאתֵ֜נוּ ה֧וּא וְכׇל־עַמּ֛וֹ לַמִּלְחָמָ֖ה יָֽהְצָה׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Devarim 2:32) recounts the confrontation between the Israelites and Sichon, king of the Emorites, as they journeyed toward Eretz Yisrael. This event occurred after Moshe Rabbeinu's request for peaceful passage through Sichon's land was denied (Devarim 2:26-30). Sichon's aggression led to a battle in which Hashem granted Bnei Yisrael victory.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Devarim 2:32) notes that Sichon initiated hostilities despite Moshe's peaceful overtures. He emphasizes that the war was not sought by Israel but was forced upon them. Rashi also highlights that the battle took place in Yahatz, one of Sichon's cities, indicating that Sichon came out with his entire army to confront Israel in open battle.

Midrashic Insights

  • Sifrei Devarim (Piska 26): The Midrash explains that Sichon's decision to fight was divinely orchestrated—Hashem hardened his heart, much like Pharaoh's, to bring about his downfall and allow Israel to inherit his land.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Chukat 22): Sichon's name (סיחון) is interpreted as "one who sweeps away" (סוחה), symbolizing his arrogance in believing he could overpower Bnei Yisrael, despite knowing their miraculous redemption from Egypt.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Melachim (6:1-5), the Rambam discusses the laws of war, including the requirement to first offer peace before engaging in battle (based on Devarim 20:10). This verse illustrates that Moshe adhered to this principle, but Sichon's refusal justified Israel's defensive war.

Spiritual Lessons

  • Divine Providence: The confrontation demonstrates that even hostile actions of enemies serve Hashem's plan—ensuring Israel's rightful possession of the land.
  • Moral Conduct in War: Israel's initial attempt at peace reflects the Torah's ethical guidelines for warfare, contrasting with Sichon's unprovoked aggression.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Sichon and why did he attack the Israelites?
A: Sichon was the king of the Amorites. According to Rashi (Deuteronomy 2:24), Sichon refused to let the Israelites pass peacefully through his land, despite Moshe's request, and instead chose to wage war against them. This was part of Hashem's plan to give the land to the Jewish people.
Q: What is the significance of the battle with Sichon in the Torah?
A: The battle with Sichon was the first military victory for the Israelites as they approached the Land of Israel. The Ramban (Deuteronomy 2:24) explains that this victory demonstrated Hashem's protection and fulfilled His promise to give them the land, building their confidence as they prepared to enter Eretz Yisrael.
Q: Where was Yahaẓ (the place mentioned in the verse)?
A: Yahaẓ was a city in the territory of Sichon. The Talmud (Megillah 6a) identifies it as one of the cities later given to the tribe of Reuven. Rashi (Deuteronomy 2:32) notes it was the site where the decisive battle with Sichon took place.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Sichon came out with 'all his people'?
A: The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 1:19) explains that this emphasizes how Sichon mobilized his entire nation against Israel, showing his complete hostility. This detail highlights how Hashem gave Israel victory against overwhelming opposition, demonstrating divine intervention.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the story of Sichon?
A: The Sforno (Deuteronomy 2:32) teaches that this episode shows how even when enemies seem powerful and united against us, Hashem protects His people when they follow His commandments. It also teaches that we should attempt peaceful solutions first (as Moshe did) before engaging in conflict.