דברים, פרק ד׳, פסוק מ״ו

Standing on the brink of the Promised Land, the Israelites pause at a location rich with historical and spiritual weight. The precise geographic setting of Moses' speech serves as both a physical marker and a reminder of the triumphs that paved their way. The encampment across the Jordan in the valley refers to the region of Mount Abarim, just before the nation moved to the plains of Moab [אבן עזרא]. Positioning the Israelites opposite Beth Peor seems counterintuitive, as this area was a notorious center for idolatry and spiritual danger. However, Moses purposefully taught the Torah in this specific location because it was unassigned territory. Much like receiving the Torah in the barren desert, this ensured that no single tribe could claim exclusive ownership over it. Furthermore, immersing themselves in intense study in such a perilous place created a spiritual shield, protecting the people from the corrupting influence of Peor [העמק דבר].

Symbolically, the valley represents a state of despair or being at a low point. This location serves as a reminder that even when the Israelites find themselves at their absolute lowest, God stands by their side and fights their battles [שפתי כהן]. From another perspective, the precise geographic details indicate that the teachings Moses is delivering now across the Jordan were actually taught to them earlier in that very same valley [חזקוני].

The narrative also recalls Sihon, the king who formerly ruled in Heshbon [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Highlighting his defeat establishes a clear timeframe for when Moses delivered his address [ביאור יש״ר]. While the victory is credited to both Moses and the Israelites, it was ultimately God who struck the decisive blow and won the war [שפתי כהן].

Linking this victory to the departure from Egypt presents a timeline challenge, since the war against Sihon took place forty years after the exodus. However, the opportunity to defeat him was actually prepared for the Israelites the moment they left Egypt. Had it not been for the sin of the spies, this victory would have been achieved by the second year. Additionally, from the very day the Israelites departed Egypt, a paralyzing fear fell upon Sihon. Because of this dread, he was essentially considered a defeated man from the very beginning of their journey [אור החיים].