Old Testament
Numbers 13:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the men set out and explored the land all the way from the wilderness of Zin to Rehob, near the entrance to Hamath.
Compare translations
So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.
What Numbers 13:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelite scouts are sent to explore the land of Canaan, which God promised to them. They travel from the wilderness of Zin, a desolate area, to Rehob, which is near the entrance to Hamath, a significant city. This journey signifies the beginning of their mission to assess the land's potential for settlement. The scouts are tasked with gathering information about the land's resources, inhabitants, and overall suitability for the Israelites. Their exploration is crucial as it will influence the people's decision about entering the Promised Land. This verse highlights the importance of preparation and understanding before making significant decisions, especially when it involves a new beginning or venture. The mention of specific locations also emphasizes the geographical context of their journey, showing that they are moving into a land filled with promise and challenges.
How to apply Numbers 13:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to prepare and gather information before making important decisions in our lives. Just as the scouts explored the land, we should seek knowledge and understanding about our paths. Trusting in God's guidance while being diligent in our preparations can lead to fruitful outcomes.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Twelve Spies (Numbers 13:1–33)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 13:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 13:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 13:21 mean?
Numbers 13:21 describes the Israelite scouts' mission to explore the land of Canaan, traveling from the wilderness of Zin to Rehob, near Hamath. This journey is significant as it marks the beginning of their assessment of the land promised to them by God.
What is the significance of the locations mentioned in Numbers 13:21?
The locations in Numbers 13:21, such as the wilderness of Zin and Rehob, highlight the geographical context of the Israelites' journey. These places represent both the challenges they faced and the promise of the land they were to inherit.
What can we learn from Numbers 13:21?
From Numbers 13:21, we learn the importance of preparation and gathering information before making significant decisions. The scouts' mission emphasizes the need for diligence and understanding in pursuing new opportunities.
How does Numbers 13:21 relate to faith and preparation?
Numbers 13:21 illustrates the balance between faith and preparation, as the scouts are tasked with exploring the land while trusting in God's promise. This reflects the idea that faith should be accompanied by practical steps and informed decision-making.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.