Numbers 21:21

ΒΆ And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,

And Israel {H3478} sent {H7971} messengers {H4397} unto Sihon {H5511} king {H4428} of the Amorites {H567}, saying {H559},

Isra'el sent messengers to Sichon, king of the Emori, with this message:

Then Israel sent messengers to Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,

And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,

Commentary

Numbers 21:21 marks a pivotal moment in the Israelites' journey as they approach the Promised Land. After decades of wandering in the wilderness, they are now poised to enter Canaan, but their path requires passage through the territories of established kingdoms.

Context

This verse immediately follows the account of Israel's victory over the Canaanites in Arad (Numbers 21:1-3) and a renewed period of complaining and divine judgment involving the bronze serpent (Numbers 21:4-9). As they continue their march, they encounter the powerful kingdom of the Amorites, led by King Sihon, whose capital was Heshbon. Unlike their previous, more circuitous route around Edom (Numbers 20:14-21), Israel now seeks direct passage through Amorite land. This diplomatic overture demonstrates their desire for peaceful transit, avoiding unnecessary conflict, a strategy consistent with God's instructions for their initial approach to surrounding nations.

Key Themes

  • Diplomacy and Peace Overtures: Despite being a divinely appointed nation on a mission, Israel often sought peaceful resolution before resorting to conflict. This act of "sending messengers" highlights a preference for negotiation and respect for existing territorial boundaries.
  • Preparation for Conquest: This encounter with Sihon is a critical step in the Israelites' progress towards the Promised Land. The response of Sihon will determine the nature of their entry into the region east of the Jordan River.
  • Divine Orchestration: While Israel initiates the diplomatic move, the subsequent events reveal God's sovereign hand at work. The refusal of Sihon, as detailed in Numbers 21:23-24 and Deuteronomy 2:30, ultimately serves God's larger plan for Israel's inheritance.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "sent messengers" (Hebrew: ΧžΦ·ΧœΦ°ΧΦΈΧ›Φ΄Χ™Χ, mal'akhim) is a standard term for diplomatic envoys. It signifies a formal and respectful approach, indicating that Israel was not attempting a clandestine invasion but rather a legitimate request for transit. The Amorites were a prominent Semitic people in the ancient Near East, often depicted as formidable warriors, making this diplomatic request a significant one for the Israelites.

Practical Application

Numbers 21:21 reminds us that even when we believe God has a plan for us, it's often wise to pursue peaceful and respectful means in our interactions with others. It shows that God's people should strive for peace when possible, even when facing potential obstacles or challenges. The narrative also underscores that God's ultimate purposes will prevail, sometimes even through the resistance of others, turning apparent setbacks into opportunities for His glory and the advancement of His will.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 2:26 (3 votes)

    And I sent messengers out of the wilderness of Kedemoth unto Sihon king of Heshbon with words of peace, saying,

  • Deuteronomy 2:28 (3 votes)

    Thou shalt sell me meat for money, that I may eat; and give me water for money, that I may drink: only I will pass through on my feet;

  • Judges 11:19 (3 votes)

    And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, the king of Heshbon; and Israel said unto him, Let us pass, we pray thee, through thy land into my place.

  • Judges 11:21 (3 votes)

    And the LORD God of Israel delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel, and they smote them: so Israel possessed all the land of the Amorites, the inhabitants of that country.

  • Numbers 20:14 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us:

  • Numbers 20:19 (2 votes)

    And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the high way: and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it: I will only, without [doing] any thing [else], go through on my feet.