Old Testament
Numbers 21:33
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then they turned and headed up the road toward Bashan. Og, king of Bashan, marched out with his entire army to fight them at Edrei.
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And they turned and went up by the way of Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan went out against them, he, and all his people, to the battle at Edrei.
What Numbers 21:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are on their journey to the Promised Land and are approaching the territory of Bashan. Og, the king of Bashan, is a formidable opponent known for his size and strength. He gathers his entire army to confront the Israelites at Edrei, indicating that he sees them as a significant threat. This moment highlights the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the various kings and nations they encounter. The confrontation with Og serves as a test of faith and strength for the Israelites, as they must rely on God’s guidance and support in battle. The mention of Edrei, a city in Bashan, sets the stage for a significant military encounter, emphasizing the challenges the Israelites face as they move closer to their goal. This verse illustrates the theme of struggle and perseverance in the face of opposition, reminding readers that challenges are part of the journey toward fulfilling God’s promises.
How to apply Numbers 21:33 to your life
When facing challenges or opposition in life, remember that perseverance and faith are essential. Just as the Israelites relied on God during their battles, we too can seek divine guidance and strength in our struggles. Trusting in God can help us overcome obstacles.
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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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 21:33 mean?
Numbers 21:33 describes the Israelites approaching Bashan, where Og, the king, confronts them with his army. This encounter signifies the ongoing struggles the Israelites face as they journey to the Promised Land, highlighting themes of conflict and reliance on God.
Who is Og in Numbers 21:33?
Og is the king of Bashan mentioned in Numbers 21:33, known for his great size and strength. He leads his entire army to battle against the Israelites, demonstrating the significant opposition they encounter during their journey.
What is the significance of Edrei in Numbers 21:33?
Edrei is the location where Og confronts the Israelites in battle. This city represents a critical point in the Israelites' journey, emphasizing the challenges they must overcome to reach the Promised Land.
What themes are present in Numbers 21:33?
The themes in Numbers 21:33 include conflict, faith, divine guidance, perseverance, and courage. The verse illustrates the struggles the Israelites face and their need for strength and support from God.
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