Definition: And all the cities of the plain, and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, which reigned in Heshbon, whom Moses smote with the princes of Midian, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, [which were] dukes of Sihon, dwelling in the country.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 13:21. It's a pretty complex verse, but we can understand it as a historical account of a significant battle and its aftermath. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Sihon Kingdom: The story is about the Sihon kingdom – a powerful empire located in modern-day Lebanon, near the border of Israel. It was ruled by a king named Sihon. A Massacre: Joshua’s army, after defeating Sihon's forces, decided to systematically destroy all the cities and kingdoms within the Sihon territory. The Battle & Destruction: They engaged in a major battle, and the enemies were utterly defeated. The verse specifically mentions that Moses’s sons, Midian, Evi, Rekem, Zur, and Hur – powerful rulers who controlled significant areas – were all killed. Let's unpack the details: “And all the cities of the plain, and all the kingdom of Sihon…” : This tells us it was a large-scale conquest. It wasn’t just a single skirmish; it was a full-blown campaign to eliminate the entire power structure of the Sihon kingdom. “…which reigned in Heshbon…” : Heshbon was a region near the border of Israel and Lebanon, known for its strategic importance. The Sihon kings controlled this area. "...whom Moses smote with the princes of Midian, Evi, and Rekem..." : This is crucial. Moses (a major figure in Jewish history) commanded his sons – Midian, Evi, and Rekem – to kill the rulers of the Sihon kingdom. He specifically instructed them to do so using the power of the Midianites (a group of tribes associated with Moses). "...and Zur, and Hur, and Reba..." : These are names of other powerful figures within the Sihon kingdom who were also targeted by Moses’s sons. “[which were] dukes of Sihon…” : The verse emphasizes that these individuals were dukes – rulers who held significant power within the kingdom. In essence, the verse describes a complete and brutal elimination of the Sihon kingdom's leadership, a clear demonstration of God’s power and judgment. It was a decisive act to remove a major threat and solidify Israel’s position. Why is this important? This story demonstrates: Divine Judgment: God is actively intervening in history, punishing those who defy him. Moses' Role as a Judge: Moses is portrayed as a powerful judge who uses his authority to deliver justice. The Power of God’s Army: The verse highlights the strength and effectiveness of Israel’s military forces under God’s command. Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this passage? For example, would you like me to explain: The significance of the Sihon kingdom? The role of Moses in this event?