The journey of the Israelites through the desert reaches a major turning point, marking both a new geographic direction and a spiritual awakening. After thirty-eight years of distance following the sin of the spies, the nation finally returns to God's favor. During those years of divine displeasure, God's communication with Moses was limited to a basic level of expression, lacking the intimacy of face-to-face dialogue. The return to a more direct and affectionate form of communication shows that the Divine Presence rests upon prophets primarily for the sake of the Israelites. Although this direct form of speech can sometimes imply harshness, when God uses it with Moses, it represents a special, public, and loving connection, typically used when giving positive commandments [מזרחי, יריעות שלמה].
As the spiritual cloud lifts, the physical journey advances. The Israelites move along the border of Moab, carefully traveling near its edge rather than passing directly through its territory, eventually leaving it behind as they head to their next destination [ביאור יש"ר]. This movement clarifies the regional map. With Edom located to the south of the Land of Israel and Moab to the east, the Israelites are now marching north toward the land of Ammon, bringing them closer to their final home [רש"י, משכיל לדוד].
As they approach this new territory, the people receive a direct warning. Just as the Moabites refused to allow the Israelites to pass through their land, the Ammonites are expected to do the same. God cautions the Israelites not to besiege Ammon or engage them in battle, because their land is a rightful inheritance granted to them in the merit of Abraham [מלבי"ם]. The instructions regarding Moab and Ammon are given together because the two nations share a close family bond as descendants of Lot's daughters. Both nations took over lands that were previously occupied by giants. The Ammonites called these giants Zamzumim because of the cunning and scheming tactics they used in warfare.
Seeing that lands associated with Abraham's legacy were given to the descendants of Lot and Esau, the Israelites might have felt a sense of resentment. To prevent this frustration, God compensated them by granting them other rich and excellent territories, such as the land of the Avvites. These additional lands were not part of the original promise made to the patriarchs, but they were given to complete the Israelites' inheritance and ensure they received their full and proper portion [אברבנאל].