Old Testament
Numbers 21:28
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For fire blazed out from Heshbon, a flame from Sihon's city. It consumed Ar of Moab and devoured the rulers of Arnon's heights.
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For there is a fire gone out of Heshbon, a flame from the city of Sihon: it hath consumed Ar of Moab, and the lords of the high places of Arnon.
What Numbers 21:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes a powerful and destructive force that has emerged from the city of Heshbon, which was ruled by Sihon. The imagery of fire symbolizes judgment and destruction, indicating that the city’s power has led to the downfall of Ar, a city of Moab, and its leaders. The reference to flames suggests a swift and overwhelming attack, highlighting the might of Sihon’s city and the consequences for those who oppose it. The mention of the 'lords of the high places of Arnon' indicates that even the leaders of the region are not spared from this devastation. This passage serves as a reminder of the consequences of conflict and the power dynamics between nations during this period. It reflects the broader theme of divine judgment and the fate of those who stand against God's chosen people, as well as the historical context of Israel's journey through the wilderness and their encounters with neighboring nations.
How to apply Numbers 21:28 to your life
This verse reminds us of the consequences of pride and opposition to God's will. In our lives, we should be cautious about how we treat others and the power we wield. It encourages humility and the recognition that our actions can have significant impacts on those around us.
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 21:28
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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 21:28 mean?
Numbers 21:28 describes the destructive power that emerged from Heshbon, a city ruled by Sihon. The verse uses fire as a symbol of judgment, indicating that Sihon's strength led to the downfall of Ar, a city of Moab, and its leaders.
What is the significance of fire in Numbers 21:28?
In Numbers 21:28, fire symbolizes judgment and destruction. It represents the overwhelming force that consumes Ar of Moab and its rulers, highlighting the consequences of opposing Sihon and, by extension, God's chosen people.
Who are the 'lords of the high places of Arnon' in Numbers 21:28?
The 'lords of the high places of Arnon' refer to the leaders and rulers of the region around Arnon. This phrase indicates that even the powerful leaders were not spared from the devastation caused by Sihon's city.
What themes are present in Numbers 21:28?
Key themes in Numbers 21:28 include divine judgment, destruction, power dynamics, and the consequences of conflict. The verse reflects the historical context of Israel's encounters with neighboring nations and the fate of those who oppose God's people.
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