Old Testament
Numbers 13:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When they arrived at the brook of Eshcol, they cut down a branch with one cluster of grapes, which was so large that two men carried it on a staff between them. They also brought back some pomegranates and figs.
Compare translations
And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff; and they brought of the pomegranates, and of the figs.
What Numbers 13:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the scouts sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan reach a place called the brook of Eshcol. Here, they find an impressive cluster of grapes that is so large that it requires two men to carry it on a staff. This moment highlights the abundance and fertility of the land that God promised to the Israelites. Along with the grapes, they also collect pomegranates and figs, which further emphasizes the richness of the land. The act of cutting down the grapes and bringing back these fruits serves as tangible evidence of the blessings that await the Israelites in Canaan. It illustrates not only the physical bounty of the land but also God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. This verse sets the stage for the Israelites' anticipation of entering a land flowing with milk and honey, reinforcing their hope and faith in God's provision.
How to apply Numbers 13:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives. Just as the scouts brought back evidence of the land's abundance, we should share our experiences of God's goodness with others, fostering a sense of community and faith.
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 13:23
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 13:23
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 13:23 tell us about the land of Canaan?
Numbers 13:23 highlights the abundance and fertility of the land of Canaan by describing how the scouts found a cluster of grapes so large that it required two men to carry it on a staff. This imagery emphasizes the richness of the land that God promised to the Israelites, showcasing not only grapes but also pomegranates and figs, which symbolize the blessings awaiting them.
Why did the scouts bring back grapes, pomegranates, and figs?
The scouts brought back grapes, pomegranates, and figs as tangible evidence of the land's fertility and abundance. This act served to reassure the Israelites of God's promises and the blessings that awaited them in Canaan. By presenting these fruits, the scouts aimed to inspire hope and faith among the people regarding their future in the Promised Land.
What is the significance of the brook of Eshcol in this verse?
The brook of Eshcol is significant as it marks a location where the scouts discovered the rich produce of Canaan. The name 'Eshcol' itself means 'cluster,' which is fitting given the large cluster of grapes they found there. This location symbolizes the beginning of the Israelites' journey into a land flowing with milk and honey, reinforcing the theme of God's provision and faithfulness.
How can we apply the message of Numbers 13:23 to our lives today?
We can apply the message of Numbers 13:23 by recognizing and appreciating the blessings in our own lives. Just as the scouts shared their findings to inspire hope, we should share our experiences of God's goodness with others. This fosters a sense of community and encourages faith, reminding us to look for and celebrate the abundance around us.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.