share torah logo

Deuteronomy 31:4 - Divine justice against oppressors.

Deuteronomy 31:4 - דברים 31:4

Hebrew Text

וְעָשָׂה יְהוָה לָהֶם כַּאֲשֶׁר עָשָׂה לְסִיחוֹן וּלְעוֹג מַלְכֵי הָאֱמֹרִי וּלְאַרְצָם אֲשֶׁר הִשְׁמִיד אֹתָם׃

English Translation

And the Lord will do to them as he did to Siĥon and to ῾Og, the kings of the Emori, and to their land; whom he destroyed,

Transliteration

Ve'asa Adonai lahem ka'asher asah leSichon uleOg malkhei ha'emori ule'artzam asher hishmid otam.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעָשָׂ֤ה יְהֹוָה֙ לָהֶ֔ם כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֗ה לְסִיח֥וֹן וּלְע֛וֹג מַלְכֵ֥י הָאֱמֹרִ֖י וּלְאַרְצָ֑ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִשְׁמִ֖יד אֹתָֽם׃
וְעָשָׂ֤ה יְהֹוָה֙ לָהֶ֔ם כַּאֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשָׂ֗ה לְסִיח֥וֹן וּלְע֛וֹג מַלְכֵ֥י הָאֱמֹרִ֖י וּלְאַרְצָ֑ם אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִשְׁמִ֖יד אֹתָֽם׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 31:4, where Moshe Rabbeinu reassures Bnei Yisrael of Hashem's continued protection and victory over their enemies as they prepare to enter Eretz Yisrael. The reference to Sichon and Og—kings of the Emori—serves as a reminder of Hashem's past miracles in defeating formidable foes.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Devarim 31:4) explains that this verse emphasizes Hashem's unwavering commitment to Bnei Yisrael. Just as He miraculously delivered Sichon and Og into their hands—despite their fearsome reputations—so too would He continue to fight for them against future enemies. Rashi highlights that this promise was particularly relevant as Yehoshua was about to assume leadership, ensuring the people that Hashem's assistance would not diminish.

The Significance of Sichon and Og

  • Midrashic Perspective: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 19:32) describes Og as a giant who survived the Mabul (Flood) by clinging to Noach's Ark, making his defeat especially miraculous. Sichon, too, was a powerful king who had conquered Moav (Bamidbar 21:26). Their downfall demonstrated that no enemy could withstand Hashem's will.
  • Rambam's Insight: In Moreh Nevuchim (3:50), Rambam notes that these victories were meant to instill bitachon (trust) in Hashem, proving that military strength alone does not determine outcomes—Divine providence does.

Theological Implications

The verse underscores the principle of hashgacha pratit (Divine supervision) in Jewish history. By recalling past miracles, Moshe reinforced that Hashem's intervention is consistent and dependable. The Malbim adds that this promise was conditional on Bnei Yisrael's faithfulness to the Torah—a recurring theme in Sefer Devarim.

Lessons for Future Generations

The Kli Yakar (Devarim 31:4) teaches that this verse serves as a timeless reminder: just as Hashem fought for Yisrael in the past, He will do so in every generation when they merit it through righteousness. The mention of Sichon and Og's utter destruction ("asher hishmid osam") also warns against the dangers of emulating their wickedness, as their fate exemplifies Divine justice.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 54b
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the miracles performed for Israel, particularly the victories over Sihon and Og, as examples of God's intervention.
📖 Megillah 11a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the historical context of God's deliverance and the destruction of the Amorite kings, illustrating divine justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who were Sihon and Og mentioned in Deuteronomy 31:4?
A: Sihon and Og were two Amorite kings who ruled territories east of the Jordan River. According to the Torah (Numbers 21, Deuteronomy 2-3), they refused to let the Israelites pass through their lands and attacked them. Hashem gave the Israelites victory over them, and their lands were conquered. Rashi explains that their defeat demonstrated Hashem's power and His commitment to the Jewish people.
Q: Why does the Torah mention Sihon and Og in this verse?
A: This verse reassures the Israelites that just as Hashem helped them defeat Sihon and Og, He would continue to assist them in conquering the land of Canaan. The Ramban explains that this was meant to strengthen their faith as they prepared to enter the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the defeat of Sihon and Og?
A: The defeat of Sihon and Og teaches that Hashem protects and fights for the Jewish people when they follow His commandments. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah) highlights that their downfall came because of their arrogance and cruelty, serving as a reminder that oppressive rulers will ultimately face justice.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Just as Hashem assured the Israelites of His support, we can trust that He guides and protects us when we remain faithful to Torah values. The Talmud (Berachot 4b) teaches that recalling past miracles strengthens our emunah (faith) in Hashem's ongoing providence.
Q: Why were Sihon and Og specifically mentioned as examples of Hashem's power?
A: Sihon and Og were mighty kings with fortified cities, making their defeat a clear demonstration of divine intervention. Rashi (Deuteronomy 3:11) notes that Og was a giant, and his defeat showed that no enemy is too strong for Hashem to overcome. Their story became a symbol of Hashem's ability to triumph over formidable obstacles.