Old Testament

Numbers 21:2

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

So Israel made a vow to the LORD: "If you hand these people over to us, we will completely destroy their cities."

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And Israel vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou wilt indeed deliver this people into my hand, then I will utterly destroy their cities.

What Numbers 21:2 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the Israelites are expressing their commitment to God by making a vow. They are asking for divine assistance in defeating a group of people, promising that if God helps them, they will completely destroy the cities of their enemies. This reflects their reliance on God for victory in battle and their intention to carry out God's judgment against those who oppose them. The act of making a vow signifies a serious promise, indicating that they are willing to take drastic actions in obedience to God's will. This moment highlights the importance of faith and trust in God during challenging times, as well as the seriousness of their commitment to follow through on their promises. The Israelites are not just seeking victory for their own sake but are also acknowledging God's sovereignty in the situation, showing that they understand their success depends on His intervention.

How to apply Numbers 21:2 to your life

This verse encourages us to seek God's help in our struggles and to make commitments that reflect our faith. When facing challenges, we should remember to rely on God and be prepared to act on our promises, trusting that He will guide us in our decisions.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Explore more of the Bible

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.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 21:2

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 21:2

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 21:2 mean?

Numbers 21:2 describes the Israelites making a vow to God, asking for His help to defeat their enemies. They promise to destroy the cities of those they conquer, showing their reliance on God for victory and their commitment to follow through on their promise.

What is the significance of making a vow in Numbers 21:2?

Making a vow in Numbers 21:2 signifies a serious commitment to God, indicating that the Israelites are willing to take drastic actions in obedience to His will. It reflects their faith and trust in God's power to help them in battle.

How does Numbers 21:2 relate to faith in God?

Numbers 21:2 illustrates the importance of faith in God during challenging times, as the Israelites turn to Him for help in battle. Their vow shows their belief that success depends on God's support and guidance.

What themes are present in Numbers 21:2?

Key themes in Numbers 21:2 include making vows to God, seeking divine assistance, faith in battle, obedience to God's will, and the commitment to carry out judgment against enemies.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.