Old Testament
Numbers 21:26
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Heshbon had been the capital of Sihon, king of the Amorites. He had previously gone to war against the former king of Moab and seized all his territory as far as the Arnon.
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For Heshbon was the city of Sihon the king of the Amorites, who had fought against the former king of Moab, and taken all his land out of his hand, even unto Arnon.
What Numbers 21:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Heshbon, a significant city that served as the capital for Sihon, the king of the Amorites. Sihon was a powerful ruler who had previously engaged in battle against the former king of Moab. Through his military strength, Sihon was able to conquer the land of Moab, extending his control all the way to the Arnon River. This historical context highlights the shifting power dynamics in the region and sets the stage for the Israelites' journey as they encounter these nations. The mention of Heshbon and its history illustrates the ongoing conflicts and territorial disputes that were common in the ancient Near East, emphasizing the importance of land and power in that era. Understanding this background helps us appreciate the challenges faced by the Israelites as they sought to claim their own promised land amidst these powerful kingdoms.
How to apply Numbers 21:26 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of understanding our history and the context of our surroundings. Just as the Israelites faced challenges from powerful nations, we too encounter obstacles in our lives. Recognizing these challenges can help us navigate our own journeys with faith and resilience.
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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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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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 21:26 mean?
Numbers 21:26 describes Heshbon as the capital city of Sihon, the king of the Amorites, who conquered land from the former king of Moab. This verse highlights the historical conflicts and territorial changes in the region, setting the context for the Israelites' journey.
What is the significance of Heshbon in Numbers 21:26?
Heshbon is significant as it was the capital of Sihon, symbolizing the power and influence of the Amorites. The city represents the territorial conquests that shaped the political landscape during the Israelites' journey.
Who was Sihon in Numbers 21:26?
Sihon was the king of the Amorites mentioned in Numbers 21:26, known for his military strength and for defeating the former king of Moab. His actions in battle led to significant territorial gains for the Amorites.
What does 'Arnon' refer to in Numbers 21:26?
In Numbers 21:26, 'Arnon' refers to a river that marked the boundary of the territory conquered by Sihon from Moab. It signifies the extent of Sihon's control and the geographical context of the region.
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