(As the children of Esau which dwell in Seir, and the Moabites which dwell in Ar, did unto me;) until I shall pass over Jordan into the land which the LORD our God giveth us.
(Just like the descendants of Esau who live in Seir, and the Moabites who live in Ar, allowed me to pass through their territory) until I cross the Jordan River into the land that the LORD our God is giving us.
Moses is asking for safe passage through another nation's territory, pointing out that other related peoples had already granted this courtesy to Israel on their journey to the Promised Land.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of Moses' request to King Sihon of the Amorites for peaceful passage through his land as Israel journeyed toward the Promised Land. The Edomites (descendants of Esau) and Moabites had previously allowed Israel to pass through or around their territories, though not without some tension. This diplomatic approach shows Israel's attempt to avoid unnecessary conflict during their wilderness wanderings.
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