Old Testament
Numbers 21:23
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But Sihon refused to let Israel pass through his territory. Instead, he assembled his entire army and marched out into the wilderness to confront Israel. He reached Jahaz and attacked them.
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And Sihon would not suffer Israel to pass through his border: but Sihon gathered all his people together, and went out against Israel into the wilderness: and he came to Jahaz, and fought against Israel.
What Numbers 21:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Sihon, the king of the Amorites, refuses to allow the Israelites to pass through his land peacefully. Instead of negotiating or allowing them safe passage, he gathers his entire army and confronts them in battle. This act of aggression shows Sihon's unwillingness to coexist with the Israelites and sets the stage for conflict. The Israelites, who are on their journey to the Promised Land, face opposition from Sihon, which highlights the challenges they encounter along the way. The confrontation at Jahaz is significant as it marks a pivotal moment in Israel's journey, demonstrating that they must fight for their right to enter the land that God has promised them. This verse illustrates the theme of struggle and resistance faced by the Israelites as they seek to fulfill their destiny, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity.
How to apply Numbers 21:23 to your life
This verse reminds us that challenges and opposition are often part of our journey toward fulfilling our goals and purposes. Just as the Israelites faced Sihon's aggression, we may encounter obstacles that require us to stand firm in our faith and trust in God's guidance. We should prepare ourselves to confront challenges with courage and determination.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Victories over Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21–35)
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Moses
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.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Numbers 21:23
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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 21:23 mean?
Numbers 21:23 describes how Sihon, the king of the Amorites, refused to let the Israelites pass through his territory peacefully. Instead, he gathered his army and confronted them in battle, highlighting the conflict the Israelites faced on their journey to the Promised Land.
What is the significance of Jahaz in Numbers 21:23?
Jahaz is the location where Sihon attacked the Israelites, marking a critical moment in their journey. This confrontation illustrates the challenges the Israelites encountered and their need to fight for the land God promised them.
What themes are present in Numbers 21:23?
The themes in Numbers 21:23 include conflict, resistance, faith, perseverance, and the divine promise. These themes reflect the struggles the Israelites faced as they sought to fulfill their destiny.
How does Numbers 21:23 relate to personal challenges?
This verse serves as a reminder that challenges and opposition are often part of pursuing our goals. Just as the Israelites faced Sihon's aggression, we may need to confront obstacles with courage and faith.
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