Numbers 21:24 - Victory over Amorite territory

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bamidbar 21:24) describes the military victory of Bnei Yisrael over Sichon, king of the Emori, and the subsequent conquest of his territory. The verse emphasizes the extent of the land taken—from the Arnon River to the Yabboq River—and notes the strength of the border of Bnei Ammon, which prevented further expansion.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 21:24) clarifies that the phrase "כִּי עַז גְּבוּל בְּנֵי עַמּוֹן" ("for the border of the children of ῾Ammon was strong") means that Hashem had previously commanded Bnei Yisrael not to wage war against Bnei Ammon (Devarim 2:19). Therefore, even though the land beyond the Yabboq was desirable, they did not conquer it due to this divine prohibition. The strength of the border was not merely physical but also a reflection of Hashem's decree.

Ramban's Insight

The Ramban (Bamidbar 21:24) adds that the Torah highlights the strength of Bnei Ammon's border to emphasize that Bnei Yisrael's victories were not due to their own military prowess alone, but because Hashem granted them success within the boundaries He set. The exclusion of Bnei Ammon's land was a test of their obedience to divine commandments.

Midrashic Perspective

The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 19:25) connects this verse to the broader theme of divine justice. It explains that Sichon had previously taken this land from Moav, and now Bnei Yisrael were permitted to conquer it from him as part of Hashem's plan. The mention of Bnei Ammon serves as a reminder that each nation's territory was allotted according to divine will.

Halachic Implications

• The prohibition against conquering Bnei Ammon's land (Devarim 2:19) is rooted in their kinship with Avraham through Lot (Rambam, Hilchot Melachim 5:3).
• This verse reinforces the principle that wars of conquest in Eretz Yisrael must align with Torah commandments, not mere territorial ambition.