Numbers 21:27

Wherefore they that speak in proverbs say, Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared:

Wherefore they that speak in proverbs {H4911} say {H559}, Come {H935} into Heshbon {H2809}, let the city {H5892} of Sihon {H5511} be built {H1129} and prepared {H3559}:

This is why the storytellers say, "Come to Heshbon! Let it be rebuilt! Let Sichon's city be restored!

That is why the poets say: โ€œCome to Heshbon, let it be rebuilt; let the city of Sihon be restored.

Wherefore they that speak in proverbs say, Come ye to Heshbon; Let the city of Sihon be built and established:

Commentary

Numbers 21:27 is part of an ancient poetic taunt song, often referred to as the "Song of Heshbon." This song is quoted by the author of Numbers to underscore the significance of Israel's decisive victory over Sihon, the king of the Amorites.

Context

Following their journey through the wilderness, the Israelites sought passage through the land of the Amorites. King Sihon refused and instead mustered his forces to fight against Israel. As detailed in Numbers 21:21-26, the Lord delivered Sihon and his kingdom into Israel's hand. Heshbon, Sihon's capital city, was conquered. This verse, and the surrounding verses (27-30), are a proverbial saying or song that celebrates this significant triumph, mocking Sihon's former power and lamenting his downfall.

Key Themes

  • Divine Victory and Conquest: The primary theme is the overwhelming victory granted by God to Israel. This victory was not merely a military achievement but a fulfillment of God's promise to give His people the land.
  • Proverbial or Poetic Expression: The phrase "they that speak in proverbs" (Hebrew: moshlim) refers to those who compose or recite wise sayings, parables, or even taunt songs. This indicates that the victory was so profound it became enshrined in popular oral tradition and poetry, serving as a memorable testament to God's intervention.
  • Irony and Mockery: The song is a sarcastic invitation for the defeated Amorites to "Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared." This is ironic because Heshbon had just been utterly destroyed and captured by Israel. The "building" refers to its re-establishment, but under Israelite control, not Amorite.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term moshlim (ืžึนืฉึฐืืœึดื™ื), translated as "they that speak in proverbs," can also refer to those who utter parables, allegories, or even rulers. In this context, it signifies a class of poetic speakers or bards who composed and recited such commemorative songs. The command "Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared" uses imperative verbs that, in this poetic context, function as a taunt, highlighting the complete reversal of fortunes for Sihon and his kingdom.

Reflection and Application

Numbers 21:27 reminds us of God's active involvement in the history of His people. Just as God cleared the way for Israel by defeating powerful enemies like Sihon, He continues to work on behalf of His followers today. This passage teaches us that even in challenging journeys, God provides the necessary strength and wisdom to overcome obstacles. It encourages us to remember and celebrate God's past faithfulness, which strengthens our trust for future challenges. The echoes of this victory can be seen in later biblical accounts, such as Deuteronomy 2:30, where Moses recounts how God hardened Sihon's heart to ensure Israel's victory and the subsequent possession of the land.

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Cross-References

  • Habakkuk 2:6

    Shall not all these take up a parable against him, and a taunting proverb against him, and say, Woe to him that increaseth [that which is] not his! how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick clay!

  • Isaiah 14:4

    ยถ That thou shalt take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the golden city ceased!

  • Numbers 21:14

    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,
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