Old Testament
Numbers 31:45
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
30,500 donkeys,
Compare translations
And thirty thousand asses and five hundred,
What Numbers 31:45 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 31:45, the mention of 30,500 donkeys (or asses) highlights the wealth and resources acquired by the Israelites after their victory over the Midianites. This verse is part of a larger narrative where God commands Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for leading Israel into sin. The animals listed, including donkeys, symbolize the spoils of war and the blessings that come from obedience to God. The specific number of donkeys indicates the scale of the victory and the prosperity that follows. In ancient times, donkeys were valuable for transportation and agricultural work, making this acquisition significant for the community's livelihood. This verse serves as a reminder of God's provision and the rewards of faithfulness, as the Israelites were able to reclaim not only their lives but also their resources through divine intervention. It reflects the broader theme of God's justice and the consequences of sin, as well as the importance of following God's commands in order to receive His blessings.
How to apply Numbers 31:45 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the blessings that come from following God's guidance. Just as the Israelites received resources after their obedience, we too can expect God's provision in our lives when we align our actions with His will. Trusting in God leads to abundance.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 31:45
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 31:45
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 31:45 say about donkeys?
Numbers 31:45 mentions that the Israelites acquired 30,500 donkeys after their victory over the Midianites. This number signifies the wealth and resources gained as spoils of war, reflecting God's provision for His people following their obedience to His commands.
Why are donkeys significant in Numbers 31:45?
In ancient times, donkeys were essential for transportation and agriculture, making them valuable assets. The mention of 30,500 donkeys in Numbers 31:45 highlights not only the scale of the Israelites' victory but also the prosperity and livelihood that these animals would provide for the community.
What is the context of Numbers 31:45?
Numbers 31:45 is part of a narrative where God instructs Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for leading Israel into sin. The verse illustrates the rewards of obedience to God, as the Israelites receive abundant resources after their victory, emphasizing themes of divine provision and justice.
How can we apply Numbers 31:45 to our lives today?
Numbers 31:45 teaches us about the blessings that come from following God's guidance. Just as the Israelites received resources after their obedience, we can expect God's provision in our lives when we align our actions with His will, trusting that He will provide for our needs.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.