Heshbon

Lore & Background

Heshbon is first introduced as the city of Sihon, the Amorite king who had taken land from the former king of Moab as far as the Arnon (Numbers 21:26). After Israel defeated Sihon, they took possession of Heshbon and all its villages (Numbers 21:25). A proverbial saying about Heshbon describes a fire from the city consuming Ar of Moab and the lords of the high places of Arnon (Numbers 21:27-28). The city is also listed among the towns that the tribes of Reuben and Gad requested for their livestock (Numbers 32:3). Later, the children of Reuben rebuilt Heshbon along with Elealeh and Kirjathaim (Numbers 32:37).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Heshbon primarily as the fortified capital of Sihon, a king who opposed Israel's passage and was defeated by divine decree (Deuteronomy 2:24, 2:30). The city is a symbol of Amorite power that was broken by the LORD's deliverance (Numbers 21:34). After its conquest, Heshbon became part of Israel's inheritance and was rebuilt by the tribe of Reuben (Numbers 32:37). The city is also the subject of an ancient proverb that celebrates its strength and the destruction it brought upon Moab (Numbers 21:27-28). The repeated mention of Heshbon in the context of Sihon's defeat underscores its role as a key territorial marker in Israel's eastward expansion (Deuteronomy 1:4, 3:6, 4:46).

Did You Know?

• Heshbon was originally taken by Sihon from the former king of Moab (Numbers 21:26).
• A proverb about Heshbon says a fire went out from it to consume Ar of Moab (Numbers 21:28).
• The children of Reuben rebuilt Heshbon after the Israelite conquest (Numbers 32:37).
• Sihon king of Heshbon refused Israel passage because the LORD hardened his spirit (Deuteronomy 2:30).