Overview
Shophan was a fortified city constructed by the tribe of Gad in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. The Gadites, along with the Reubenites and half-tribe of Manasseh, requested to settle in this fertile territory rather than cross into Canaan, and they built various cities to establish their communities.
Key Scriptures
"The people of Gad built Dibon, Ataroth, Aroer, Atroth-shophan, Jazer, Jogbehah, Beth-nimrah, and Beth-haran, fortified cities, and folds for sheep." (Numbers 32:34-35, ESV)
"So Moses gave to the Gadites and to the Reubenites and to the half-tribe of Manasseh the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land and its cities and territories." (Numbers 32:33, ESV)
Application
Understanding Shophan reminds us that God honored the faith and strategic planning of His people, providing security and provision for those who sought to settle within His appointed boundaries.