Judges 11:20

“*But Sihon did not trust Israel to pass through his territory; so Sihon gathered all his people and camped in Jahaz and fought with Israel*” (v.20).

Jephthah, who is recounting Israel’s past interactions with neighboring nations, uses this historical event to demonstrate that the Ammonites have no legitimate claim against Israel. He highlights that *Sihon*, king of the Amorites, “*did not trust Israel to pass through his territory*,” recalling the time when Moses sought peaceful passage through the land of the Amorites (Numbers 21:21-22). Because Sihon refused and attacked Israel instead, the Israelites fought back and gained possession of the territory. Historically, Sihon ruled from Heshbon around the late fifteenth or early fourteenth century BC, and his defeat cleared the way for Israel’s entrance into parts of the Promised Land citeturn0file11. This verse makes clear that Israel’s conquest was a direct result of Sihon’s aggression and God’s intervention.

The location *Jahaz* lies east of the Jordan River, in the region of Moab or northern territory of what we now associate with west-central Jordan. By stating that Sihon “*gathered all his people and camped in Jahaz and fought with Israel,*” the narrative emphasizes the formidable threat posed by Sihon. Nevertheless, as indicated in Deuteronomy 3 and 4, the LORD delivered this Amorite king into Israel’s hand, granting them victory over a larger, well-fortified foe citeturn0file19. This episode became a defining moment in Israel’s history, reminding the nation that the possession of the land was due to divine provision rather than mere military might.

Such an account underlines the faithfulness of God to uphold His promises despite human opposition. Jephthah presents this truth as part of his case that Israel’s ownership of the territory in question was rightful and sanctioned by the LORD’s power. By reminding the Ammonites (and the Israelites themselves) of the events at Jahaz, he demonstrates that God’s favor, rather than Israel’s aggression, served as the real catalyst for their success.

They were forced to fight only after being refused safe passage.

Short summary: Sihon’s refusal to let Israel pass through his land led to a conflict at Jahaz, resulting in Israel’s victory and legitimate possession of the territory.