Deuteronomy 3:13
And the rest of Gilead, and all Bashan, being the kingdom of Og, gave I unto the half tribe of Manasseh; all the region of Argob, with all Bashan, which was called the land of giants.
Deuteronomy 3:13
This verse completes the land division by describing how the remainder of Gilead and all Bashan—Og’s kingdom—are given to the half-tribe of Manasseh, including Argob. It shows the strategic balance: territories east of the Jordan are allocated to two and a half tribes, while the remainder of Bashan is granted to Manasseh. It adds Argob’s extent to the land promised and codified in the covenant, reinforcing the organizational structure of Israel’s settlement. The text continues to emphasize the practicalities of governance in the promised land while within the framework of divine blessing and covenant obligation. The phrase “which was called the land of giants” reiterates the contrast between formidable opponents and the God who enables victory, reminding readers of the basis for the distribution of land and the responsibility to live out the covenant in a settled homeland.
Theologically, the division of land expresses God’s ordering of life under his kingship. It demonstrates that divine sovereignty shapes human geography and that God’s purposes extend to the social and political arrangements of his people. The inclusion of Argob as a named region connected to Bashan emphasizes that the land isn’t incidental; it’s crafted to sustain worship, justice, and the life of the covenant community. It also demonstrates how God uses history to write a narrative of faithfulness across generations.
For today, this verse encourages intentional planning and stewardship in how communities allocate resources, territory, and responsibilities. If you lead a community or organization, consider how to distribute responsibilities fairly, honor historical ties, and create spaces where people can thrive in the faith. Worship, service, and governance should be integrated so that the land—literal or metaphorical—becomes a place where God is honored and life is enriched for all. Practice stewardship that reflects justice, hospitality, and generosity.
Cross-References: Joshua 17:1-6; 1 Chronicles 6:64-81; Psalm 37:3-5; Galatians 5:14.