Old Testament
Numbers 14:45
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the Israelites faced a sudden attack from the Amalekites and Canaanites after they had disobeyed God by refusing to enter the Promised Land.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in that hill country came down and attacked them, beating them back and chasing them all the way to Hormah.
Then the Amalekites came down, and the Canaanites which dwelt in that hill, and smote them, and discomfited them, even unto Hormah.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites faced a sudden attack from the Amalekites and Canaanites after they had disobeyed God by refusing to enter the Promised Land. The Amalekites and Canaanites, who lived in the hill country, took advantage of the Israelites' fear and lack of faith. They came down from their stronghold and defeated the Israelites, pushing them back to a place called Hormah. This event illustrates the consequences of disobedience and the importance of trusting in God's promises. The Israelites had been given a chance to enter the land flowing with milk and honey, but their lack of faith led to their defeat. This moment serves as a reminder that turning away from God's guidance can lead to dire consequences, and that faith is essential in overcoming challenges.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 14:45 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of obedience and faith in our lives. When we stray from God's guidance, we may face challenges that can lead to defeat. Trusting in God and following His direction can help us overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 14:45 mean?
Numbers 14:45 describes how the Amalekites and Canaanites attacked the Israelites after they disobeyed God by refusing to enter the Promised Land. This verse highlights the consequences of their lack of faith and trust in God's promises.
What is the significance of Hormah in Numbers 14:45?
Hormah is the location where the Israelites were defeated by the Amalekites and Canaanites. It symbolizes the consequences of disobedience and serves as a reminder of the importance of following God's guidance.
Who are the Amalekites and Canaanites in Numbers 14:45?
The Amalekites and Canaanites were groups of people living in the land that God promised to the Israelites. In this verse, they represent the opposition the Israelites faced due to their disobedience.
What lesson can we learn from Numbers 14:45?
Numbers 14:45 teaches that disobedience to God can lead to negative consequences. It emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God to overcome challenges.

The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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