Deuteronomy 3:5 (KJV)

What does Deuteronomy 3:5 mean?

Deuteronomy 3:5 describes how the cities that Israel encountered in the region of Bashan were strongly fortified, with high walls, gates, and bars, and that there were also many other unwalled towns. This verse emphasizes both the strength of the main cities and the large number of smaller, less-defended settlements in the area.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites, recounting their recent victories as they prepare to enter the promised land. The verse highlights the impressive defenses of the cities they conquered, which would have seemed intimidating, and also notes the abundance of less-protected towns, showing the scale of what was taken.

The Hebrew behind Deuteronomy 3:5

• The word for "cities" is עִיר (ʿir), which simply means a city or town, but here it is used both for the fortified cities and the unwalled towns, showing a range of settlement sizes.
• "Fenced" comes from בָּצַר (batsar), meaning fortified or enclosed, stressing that these were not easy targets but strongholds.
• "High" is גָּבֹהַּ (gavoah), meaning tall or lofty, which adds to the picture of imposing city walls.
• "Unwalled" uses פְּרָזִי (perazi), often understood as open or rural villages, pointing to settlements without defensive walls, which were more vulnerable.

Why Deuteronomy 3:5 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Israel only faced weak or undefended places; it stresses that their victories included overcoming strong, well-defended cities.
• The mention of both fortified cities and many unwalled towns shows the scale and variety of what was conquered, highlighting the completeness of Israel’s victory in this region.
• In the wider passage, this detail supports Moses’ reminder to the people that God enabled them to defeat even the most daunting obstacles, preparing them for future challenges as they enter Canaan.