במדבר, פרק כ״א, פסוק ל״ג

The Israelites' journey brings them to a sudden change in direction, leading to an immediate military clash with one of the region's most intimidating kings. They turn and travel north, a movement traditionally described as going up [רש ר הירש, חזקוני]. Their path takes them toward Bashan, a vast and fertile territory at the northern edge of the eastern side of the Jordan River, spanning from the Yarmouk River to Mount Hermon, and between the Jordan Valley and the Druze Mountain [ביאור שטיינזלץ, חזקוני]. This movement is also understood as the spread of Israelite spies into the territory, an action that quickly provokes the local king's hostile response [העמק דבר].

Unlike their previous encounter with Sihon, Moses does not send messengers to offer peace. This is due to both practical and legal reasons. Practically, the moment the Israelites turn toward Bashan, Og takes the initiative and launches an immediate attack, leaving no opportunity for negotiation [ביאור יש״ר]. Legally, Og's territory is considered an integral part of the land of Canaan, which falls under the strict Commandment to leave no soul alive. In contrast, Sihon's land was previously captured from Ammon and Moab, which allowed for a preliminary peace offer [חזקוני].

The confrontation with Og, king of Bashan, is uniquely terrifying. An Amorite king of extraordinary age, Og had survived since the days of the great flood [ביאור שטיינזלץ, חזקוני]. This encounter fills Moses with deep fear. Part of this dread stems from Og's sheer arrogance; despite witnessing the total destruction of Sihon, Og still possesses the audacity to launch a full-scale frontal assault, displaying immense confidence in his own power. Additionally, Moses worries that Og might be protected by an ancient historical merit earned by assisting Abraham long ago.

God calms Moses, assuring him that Og's past merit has expired. God promises that victory over the king was already decided in the month of Tishrei, as the merit of the Commandments and festivals observed during that time protects the Israelites [שפתי כהן]. The decisive clash ultimately unfolds at Edrei, the city where the Israelites face Og and his entire nation in battle [אבן עזרא, ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ].