Numbers 21:14

KJV

Wherefore it is said in the book of the wars of the LORD, What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon,

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore it is said {H559} in the book {H5612} of the wars {H4421} of the LORD {H3068}, What he did {H2052} in the Red sea {H5492}, and in the brooks {H5158} of Arnon {H769},

Complete Jewish Bible

This is why it says, in the Book of the Wars of ADONAI, ". . . Vahev at Sufah, the vadis of Arnon,

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore it is stated in the Book of the Wars of the LORD: “Waheb in Suphah and the wadis of the Arnon,

American Standard Version

Wherefore it is said in the book of the Wars of Jehovah, Vaheb in Suphah, And the valleys of the Arnon,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 21:14 introduces a citation from an ancient, non-canonical source known as "the book of the wars of the LORD." This verse serves as a powerful interjection within the narrative of Israel's wilderness journey, drawing attention to God's consistent and mighty interventions on behalf of His people. By referencing both the foundational miracle at the Red Sea and the more recent victories near the brooks of Arnon, the text underscores Yahweh's active role as a divine warrior, faithfully leading Israel through obstacles and towards the fulfillment of His covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a crucial segment of Israel's wilderness wanderings, following the challenging episode of the fiery serpents and the miraculous provision of healing through the bronze serpent in [Numbers 21:4-9](/numbers/21-4-9 "Numbers 21:4-9 - The Bronze Serpent"). Immediately preceding this verse, Israel has moved from Oboth to Iye-abarim, continuing their arduous journey towards the Promised Land. The mention of "the book of the wars of the LORD" acts as a parenthetical note, interrupting the geographical itinerary to highlight the divine power that enables their progress. Following this interjection, the narrative resumes with Israel's further movements and, critically, their decisive victories over the Amorite King Sihon and the Bashanite King Og, which are detailed in [Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Victories over Sihon and Og"). Thus, Numbers 21:14 serves to frame these upcoming conquests within a larger theological understanding of God's historical intervention, emphasizing that their success is not by their might but by divine power.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "lost books" or extra-biblical sources is not unique to this passage; other canonical texts also refer to external records (e.g., "the Book of Jashar" in [Joshua 10:13](/joshua/10-13 "Joshua 10:13 - The Sun Stands Still") and [2 Samuel 1:18](/2_samuel/1-18 "2 Samuel 1:18 - David's Lament")). In the ancient Near East, it was common for nations to record their significant victories and divine interventions in historical or poetic annals. "The book of the wars of the LORD" likely functioned as such a collection of Israelite national memory, celebrating Yahweh's role as a divine warrior who fought for His people. The Red Sea event ([Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - Crossing the Red Sea")) was the foundational act of deliverance, establishing God's power and Israel's identity as a liberated people. The "brooks of Arnon" (modern Wadi Mujib) marked a significant geographical boundary and the site of recent, crucial victories over the Amorites, demonstrating God's continued faithfulness as Israel approached the borders of Canaan. These events were not merely historical facts but theological markers, testifying to God's covenant loyalty and active presence throughout their journey.

* **Key Themes:** Numbers 21:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. It emphasizes **Divine Sovereignty and Intervention**, portraying God as actively engaged in the history of His people, not as a distant deity but as a mighty warrior who fights on their behalf. This theme is central to understanding Israel's journey through the wilderness, where their survival and progress are entirely dependent on God's miraculous provision and protection, as seen in the provision of manna ([Numbers 11](/numbers/11 "Numbers 11 - Quail and Manna")) or water from the rock ([Numbers 20:7-11](/numbers/20-7-11 "Numbers 20:7-11 - Water from the Rock")). The verse also highlights the theme of **Historical Remembrance and Testimony**, underscoring the importance of recalling and recording God's mighty deeds for future generations. The very existence of "the book of the wars of the LORD" implies a culture that valued the preservation and recounting of divine acts, serving to reinforce faith and identity. Finally, it speaks to **Progress Towards Promise and Fulfillment**, as the victories at Arnon signify Israel's tangible advancement towards the inheritance of the land promised to their ancestors, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham ([Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abram")) and His unwavering commitment to bring His people into their inheritance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Book (Hebrew, _sēpher'_):** (H5612) This term refers to a written document, scroll, or compilation. Its use here indicates a formal, perhaps authoritative, collection of historical or poetic accounts. The mention of such a "book" suggests that the events described were not merely oral traditions but had been recorded, lending them weight and permanence in the collective memory of Israel, serving as a testament to God's deeds.
* **Wars (Hebrew, _milḥāmāh'_):** (H4421) This noun, often used in the plural as here, signifies battles, conflicts, or military campaigns. When coupled with "of the LORD," it refers to those specific conflicts in which Yahweh Himself actively intervened on behalf of Israel, acting as their divine warrior. It emphasizes that these were not merely human skirmishes but divinely orchestrated victories, demonstrating God's power and commitment to His covenant people.
* **Red Sea (Hebrew, _sûphāh'_):** (H5492) While the literal Hebrew for "Red Sea" is "Yam Suph" (Sea of Reeds), the Strong's number H5492 here refers to `çûwphâh`, meaning "hurricane" or "tempest," which by implication can refer to the Red Sea due to the mighty winds and waters associated with the Exodus event. This term powerfully evokes the miraculous and overwhelming nature of God's intervention in parting the waters and destroying Pharaoh's army ([Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - Crossing the Red Sea")), representing the foundational act of salvation and liberation for the nation of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore it is said":** This introductory phrase signals a direct quotation or reference to an existing source. It functions as an appeal to an external authority or a well-known record, lending credibility and weight to the events about to be mentioned. It implies that the following information was common knowledge or widely accepted within Israelite tradition, serving as a powerful rhetorical device to underscore the veracity and importance of the subsequent statement.
* **"in the book of the wars of the LORD":** This specifies the source of the information. While this "book" is not part of the canonical Hebrew Bible, its citation here confirms its existence and significance in ancient Israel. It was evidently a revered collection of accounts detailing God's miraculous military interventions on behalf of His people, serving as a testament to His active involvement in their history and reinforcing the theological understanding that Israel's victories were divinely orchestrated.
* **"What he did in the Red sea":** This clause refers to the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and the subsequent destruction of Pharaoh's army, as recorded in [Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - Crossing the Red Sea"). This event was the quintessential demonstration of God's power to deliver His people from bondage and establish their freedom. It serves as the primary example of God's "wars" on behalf of Israel, setting the precedent for all subsequent interventions and establishing the paradigm of divine deliverance.
* **"and in the brooks of Arnon":** This refers to the recent victories Israel achieved over the Amorites near the Arnon River, a significant geographical boundary. While not as dramatically miraculous as the Red Sea, these conquests were crucial for Israel's progress towards the Promised Land ([Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Victories over Sihon and Og")). The mention of "brooks" (plural) might indicate multiple engagements or the winding nature of the river valley. Its inclusion alongside the Red Sea highlights God's continuous and diverse interventions throughout Israel's history, from grand, foundational miracles to strategic military successes, demonstrating His ongoing faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 21:14 employs several effective literary devices that enhance its message. The primary device is **Allusion**, as the verse directly references "the book of the wars of the LORD," a source external to the immediate biblical narrative. This allusion serves to validate the historical reality of God's interventions and to connect the current narrative to a broader, well-known tradition of divine action, lending weight and authority to the theological claims. Furthermore, the pairing of the "Red Sea" and the "brooks of Arnon" functions as a **Merism**, a rhetorical device where two contrasting or complementary parts are used to represent a whole. In this case, it encompasses the spectrum of God's mighty deeds, from the foundational, miraculous deliverance at the Red Sea to the more recent, strategic victories at Arnon, illustrating the continuous and comprehensive nature of God's warfare on behalf of Israel. The verse also utilizes **Historical Reference** as its core, grounding the theological claims in specific, remembered events, thereby reinforcing the trustworthiness of God's character and His covenant faithfulness across generations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 21:14 profoundly underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His active role as a divine warrior throughout their history. The reference to "the book of the wars of the LORD" emphasizes that Israel's journey was not merely a series of human endeavors but a divinely orchestrated campaign, with Yahweh Himself fighting their battles. This concept of God as a warrior who intervenes directly on behalf of His people is a recurring motif throughout the Old Testament, establishing a theological foundation for understanding His sovereignty, power, and faithfulness. From the initial act of liberation at the Red Sea to the ongoing conquests necessary for inheriting the land, God's hand is consistently at work, demonstrating that His promises are backed by His omnipotent power. This verse reminds us that God is not a passive observer but an active participant in the unfolding drama of redemption, ensuring the ultimate triumph of His purposes and the fulfillment of His covenant.

* [Deuteronomy 3:22](/deuteronomy/3-22 "Deuteronomy 3:22 - The LORD Your God Fights for You")
* [Joshua 10:14](/joshua/10-14 "Joshua 10:14 - The Day the Sun Stood Still")
* [Psalm 78:4](/psalms/78-4 "Psalm 78:4 - Recounting God's Deeds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 21:14 offers profound encouragement for believers today, reminding us that the God who fought for ancient Israel is the same God who fights for us. Just as He intervened in grand, miraculous ways at the Red Sea and in strategic, tactical ways at Arnon, He continues to work in the lives of His people, both individually and corporately. This verse calls us to cultivate a posture of remembrance, intentionally recalling God's past faithfulness in our own lives and in the history of the Church. By remembering His "wars" on our behalf – His deliverances, provisions, and victories over spiritual adversaries – we build our faith and trust for present and future challenges. It encourages us to lean into His divine power when facing our own "wilderness journeys" or seemingly insurmountable obstacles, knowing that the battle belongs to the Lord. Furthermore, it inspires us to share our testimonies, becoming living "books of the wars of the LORD" for those around us, declaring His greatness and encouraging others to trust in His unfailing might and unfailing love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are some "Red Sea moments" or "Arnon victories" in your own life where you have clearly seen God's intervention and faithfulness?**
* **How does remembering God's past actions strengthen your faith for current challenges or future uncertainties?**
* **In what ways can you actively "record" or "share" God's mighty deeds in your life, becoming a testament to His power for others?**
* **How does the concept of God as a "divine warrior" fighting for His people shape your understanding of prayer and spiritual warfare?**

### FAQ
**What was "the book of the wars of the LORD," and why is it mentioned in the Bible if it's not part of the biblical canon?**

Answer: "The book of the wars of the LORD" (Hebrew: *Sepher Milchamot Adonai*) was an ancient, non-canonical historical or poetic work that chronicled God's military interventions on behalf of Israel. It was likely a collection of songs, narratives, or annals celebrating Yahweh's role as a divine warrior. It is mentioned in [Numbers 21:14](/numbers/21-14 "Numbers 21:14 - The Book of the Wars of the LORD") and possibly alluded to elsewhere to validate the historical reality of the events described and to appeal to a source that was well-known and respected by the original audience. Its inclusion demonstrates that the biblical authors sometimes referenced existing literature to support their narrative or theological points, even if those sources were not preserved as part of the inspired canon. It underscores the rich literary and historical context in which the biblical narratives were formed, showing that the biblical writers were part of a broader literary culture.

**What is the theological significance of referencing both the Red Sea and the brooks of Arnon in this verse?**

Answer: The pairing of the Red Sea and the brooks of Arnon is highly significant. The Red Sea event ([Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - Crossing the Red Sea")) represents the foundational, paradigmatic act of God's salvation and deliverance for Israel, a grand miracle that established their identity as a free people. The brooks of Arnon, on the other hand, refer to more recent, strategic victories over the Amorites ([Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21-35 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Victories over Sihon and Og")) as Israel approached the Promised Land. By linking these two events, the verse creates a "merism," encompassing the entire scope of God's active involvement. It demonstrates that God's intervention is not limited to singular, monumental miracles but extends to ongoing, specific battles and provisions throughout His people's journey. It assures the reader that the God who performed the great wonders of the Exodus is the same God who continues to fight for them in their present circumstances, ensuring their progress towards the fulfillment of His promises and demonstrating His consistent faithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 21:14 celebrates God's physical victories for Israel, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the spiritual warfare and decisive triumph accomplished by Jesus Christ. The "wars of the LORD" in the Old Testament foreshadow the ultimate battle waged by the Lamb of God against the forces of sin, death, and the devil. Just as God delivered Israel from Pharaoh's army at the Red Sea, Christ's death and resurrection constitute the definitive victory over spiritual bondage, disarming the powers and authorities and putting them to open shame ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Powers")). The victories at Arnon, enabling Israel's progress towards the Promised Land, prefigure Christ's ongoing work to establish His kingdom and lead His people into their eternal inheritance. Jesus Himself declared, "Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out" ([John 12:31](/john/12-31 "John 12:31 - Judgment of the World")). He came to destroy the works of the devil ([1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "1 John 3:8 - Jesus Destroys the Devil's Works")), and through His sacrifice, He conquered the one who has the power of death ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). Believers are now called to participate in this victory, standing firm in the spiritual armor provided by Christ ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10-18 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God")), knowing that the ultimate "war of the LORD" has been won by our King, Jesus Christ, who leads us in triumphal procession, proclaiming His victory over every foe ([2 Corinthians 2:14](/2_corinthians/2-14 "2 Corinthians 2:14 - Christ Leads in Triumph")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Joshua 10:13

And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. [Is] not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.

2 Samuel 1:18

(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah [the use of] the bow: behold, [it is] written in the book of Jasher.)