Old Testament
Numbers 21:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD listened to Israel's plea and handed the Canaanites over to them. The Israelites completely destroyed them and their cities, so the place was named Hormah.
Compare translations
And the LORD hearkened to the voice of Israel, and delivered up the Canaanites; and they utterly destroyed them and their cities: and he called the name of the place Hormah.
What Numbers 21:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a significant moment in Israel's journey as they confront the Canaanites. After facing difficulties, the Israelites cry out to God for help. The LORD responds to their plea, demonstrating His willingness to assist them in their struggles. He delivers the Canaanites into their hands, allowing the Israelites to defeat them completely. This victory is not just a military success; it signifies God's faithfulness to His people and His promise to give them the land. The name 'Hormah,' which means 'destruction,' reflects the totality of their victory and serves as a reminder of God's power and support. This event emphasizes the importance of seeking God's help in times of trouble and trusting in His ability to deliver us from our challenges. It also highlights the consequences of disobedience, as the Canaanites faced destruction due to their opposition to God's chosen people.
How to apply Numbers 21:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek God's help in our struggles, reminding us that He listens to our prayers. When we face challenges, we should trust in His power to deliver us. Just as the Israelites experienced victory, we too can find strength and support through faith in God.
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.
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
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 PlansAsk AI about Numbers 21:3
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 21:3
Related Bible verses
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 21:3 mean?
Numbers 21:3 describes how God responded to the Israelites' plea for help by delivering the Canaanites into their hands. This victory signifies God's faithfulness and support for His people during their journey.
What is the significance of the name Hormah in Numbers 21:3?
The name Hormah means 'destruction' and reflects the total defeat of the Canaanites by the Israelites. It serves as a reminder of God's power and the consequences faced by those who oppose His chosen people.
How does Numbers 21:3 relate to the theme of divine assistance?
In Numbers 21:3, God's response to the Israelites' plea illustrates His willingness to provide assistance in their battles. This emphasizes the theme of relying on God for strength and support during difficult times.
What lesson can we learn from Numbers 21:3?
From Numbers 21:3, we learn the importance of seeking God's help in our challenges and trusting in His ability to deliver us. It also teaches that disobedience can lead to serious consequences.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.