דברים, פרק ב׳, פסוק כ״ז

Moses approaches Sihon, king of the Amorites, carrying a message that blends a request for safe passage with a firm and decisive tone. The Israelites are prepared to cross through the territory, and their travel plans are presented with strict conditions. The primary approach among commentators is that the Israelites commit to traveling exclusively on the main, public road, staying entirely on the recognized highway [אבן עזרא, רש ר הירש, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, the phrasing of the request is understood to emphasize a constant, uninterrupted forward motion [ביאור יש״ר].

This steady movement is paired with a clear promise to avoid straying to the right or the left, ensuring there will be no detours to either side [ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Yet, the specific language used to describe this refusal to turn aside reveals a deeper layer of resolve. When a similar request was previously made to the king of Edom, a softer expression was used to describe changing direction. Here, however, the chosen wording delivers a message of absolute certainty. The Israelites make it clear that their passage through the land is an undeniable reality that will happen regardless of circumstances. They will not be diverted to the north or the south, even if the king decides to oppose their advance [העמק דבר].