Old Testament
Numbers 33:51
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Tell the Israelites: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan,
Compare translations
Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye are passed over Jordan into the land of Canaan;
What Numbers 33:51 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Moses to communicate with the Israelites about their upcoming journey into Canaan, the Promised Land. This moment marks a significant transition for the Israelites, as they are about to leave their wilderness wanderings behind and enter a land that has been promised to them. The Jordan River serves as a boundary that they must cross to reach their new home. This command emphasizes the importance of obedience and preparation as they prepare to take possession of the land. It also highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. The Israelites are reminded that their journey is not just a physical crossing but also a spiritual one, as they are to live according to God's laws in this new land. This verse sets the stage for the instructions that will follow regarding how they are to live and what they are to do once they enter Canaan, reinforcing the idea that their relationship with God is central to their identity as a nation.
How to apply Numbers 33:51 to your life
As we face transitions in our lives, we can look to this verse for guidance. It reminds us to seek God's direction and to prepare ourselves spiritually and practically for the changes ahead. Trusting in God's promises can help us navigate new challenges with confidence.
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 33:51
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 33:51
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 33:51 mean?
Numbers 33:51 conveys God's command to Moses to instruct the Israelites about crossing the Jordan River into Canaan, the Promised Land. This verse signifies a pivotal moment in their journey, marking the end of their wilderness wandering and the beginning of their new life in a land promised to them.
What is the significance of crossing the Jordan in Numbers 33:51?
Crossing the Jordan River in Numbers 33:51 symbolizes a major transition for the Israelites from a life of wandering to settling in the Promised Land. It represents both a physical and spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's instructions as they enter their new home.
What does the phrase 'land of Canaan' refer to in Numbers 33:51?
In Numbers 33:51, the 'land of Canaan' refers to the territory promised by God to the Israelites, which they are about to enter. This land is significant as it represents God's faithfulness to His promises and the fulfillment of His covenant with the people of Israel.
How does Numbers 33:51 relate to obedience?
Numbers 33:51 highlights the theme of obedience as God instructs Moses to prepare the Israelites for their new life in Canaan. Their ability to successfully enter and inhabit the land depends on their willingness to follow God's commands and live according to His laws.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.