Old Testament
Numbers 21:12
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 continue their journey through the wilderness after leaving the previous campsite.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
From there they moved on and set up camp in the valley of Zared.
From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites continue their journey through the wilderness after leaving the previous campsite. They arrive at a location called the valley of Zared, which is significant as it marks another step in their long trek toward the Promised Land. The mention of moving and setting up camp illustrates the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during this period. Each location they camped at served as a temporary resting place, allowing them to regroup and prepare for the next leg of their journey. The valley of Zared is not just a geographical marker; it represents the ongoing challenges and experiences the Israelites faced as they wandered. This journey was filled with lessons about faith, obedience, and reliance on God, as they learned to trust Him for their needs in unfamiliar territories. The movement from one place to another also symbolizes the transition from one phase of their journey to another, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of uncertainty.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 21:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of perseverance in our own journeys. Just as the Israelites moved forward despite challenges, we too should keep progressing in our lives, trusting that each step brings us closer to our goals and purpose. Faith in God can guide us through uncertain times.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the valley of Zared represent in Numbers 21:12?
The valley of Zared represents a significant waypoint in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It symbolizes the ongoing challenges and experiences they faced as they moved closer to the Promised Land. Each location they camped at, including Zared, served as a temporary resting place, allowing them to regroup and prepare for the next phase of their journey.
Why is the movement of the Israelites important in this verse?
The movement of the Israelites in Numbers 21:12 illustrates their nomadic lifestyle and the continuous progress toward their goal. It emphasizes the themes of perseverance and faith, showing that despite challenges, they remained committed to their journey. This movement signifies transitions in their experiences and the lessons learned about trusting God in uncertain circumstances.
How can we apply the lessons from Numbers 21:12 to our lives?
We can apply the lessons from Numbers 21:12 by embracing perseverance in our own journeys. Just as the Israelites moved forward despite obstacles, we should continue progressing toward our goals, trusting that each step brings us closer to our purpose. This verse encourages us to have faith in God during uncertain times, reminding us that every transition can lead to growth and new opportunities.
What does this verse teach about faith and obedience?
Numbers 21:12 teaches that faith and obedience are crucial during life's journeys. The Israelites' movement to the valley of Zared reflects their trust in God's guidance as they navigated through the wilderness. It highlights the importance of following God's direction, even when the path is unclear, and reinforces the idea that obedience can lead to spiritual growth and fulfillment of promises.

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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