Old Testament
Numbers 13:17
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When Moses sent them to explore Canaan, he told them, "Head south from here, then go up into the hill country.
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And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain:
What Numbers 13:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses instructs a group of men to explore the land of Canaan, which God had promised to the Israelites. He gives them specific directions to head south and then ascend into the hill country. This mission is significant as it represents a step towards claiming the land that God had promised to their ancestors. The act of sending spies shows Moses' leadership and the importance of gathering information before making decisions. The hill country is a strategic area, likely chosen for its vantage point to assess the land's resources and the strength of its inhabitants. This exploration is not just about physical territory but also about faith in God's promise. The Israelites are being prepared to trust in God's guidance as they face the challenges ahead. This moment sets the stage for the future events in their journey, highlighting the need for careful planning and reliance on divine direction.
How to apply Numbers 13:17 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of seeking guidance and being prepared before undertaking significant tasks. Just as Moses sent spies to gather information, we should assess our situations thoughtfully and trust in God's direction as we move forward in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Twelve Spies (Numbers 13:1–33)
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Moses
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 13:17 mean?
Numbers 13:17 describes Moses sending men to explore the land of Canaan, instructing them to head south and then into the hill country. This mission is significant as it represents a step towards claiming the land promised by God to the Israelites.
What is the significance of the hill country in Numbers 13:17?
The hill country mentioned in Numbers 13:17 is significant because it provides a strategic vantage point for the spies to assess the land's resources and the strength of its inhabitants. This area is crucial for understanding the challenges the Israelites would face.
What does Moses instruct the spies to do in Numbers 13:17?
In Numbers 13:17, Moses instructs the spies to head south and then go up into the hill country to explore the land of Canaan. This direction is part of their mission to gather information about the land.
How does Numbers 13:17 relate to faith?
Numbers 13:17 relates to faith as it shows the Israelites preparing to trust in God's promise while facing the challenges of entering a new land. The act of exploration reflects their need for guidance and assurance from God.
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