Numbers 21:31

KJV

Thus Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus Israel {H3478} dwelt {H3427} in the land {H776} of the Amorites {H567}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus Isra'el lived in the land of the Emori.

Berean Standard Bible

So Israel lived in the land of the Amorites.

American Standard Version

Thus Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 21:31 serves as a pivotal summary statement, concluding the narrative of Israel's decisive victory over Sihon, king of the Amorites. This verse records the immediate and tangible outcome of that triumph: Israel's successful occupation and settlement in the Amorite territory east of the Jordan River. It marks a significant milestone in their wilderness journey, representing their first major territorial acquisition and a concrete step toward the fulfillment of God's ancient promises regarding the land, demonstrating His active hand in their progress towards the promised inheritance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse directly follows the detailed and dramatic account of Israel's confrontation with Sihon, king of the Amorites, as described in [Numbers 21:21-30](/numbers/21-21-30 "Numbers 21:21-30 - Israel's Victory Over Sihon"). After peacefully requesting passage through Amorite territory and being defiantly refused, Israel engaged Sihon in battle at Jahaz. The preceding verses emphasize God's direct intervention and active role in the conflict, with [Numbers 21:24](/numbers/21-24 "Numbers 21:24 - God Delivers Sihon") explicitly stating that "the LORD, the God of Israel, delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel." The narrative meticulously details Israel's complete victory, including the capture of all Sihon's cities and the surrounding land, extending from the Arnon to the Jabbok. Verse 31 acts as the concluding summary of this specific military campaign, solidifying the permanent outcome of the battle and establishing Israel's new geographical reality before they encounter Og of Bashan and arrive at the plains of Moab, setting the stage for the final approach to Canaan.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Amorites were a prominent Semitic people group who had established powerful kingdoms in Mesopotamia and later in Canaan and Transjordan during the second millennium BC. Sihon's kingdom, with its capital at Heshbon, was strategically located east of the Jordan River, controlling vital trade routes and access to fertile plains. For Israel, this conquest was not merely a military victory but a divinely ordained act of dispossession, consistent with God's long-standing judgment upon the wicked inhabitants of the land, as foretold in [Genesis 15:16](/genesis/15-16 "Genesis 15:16 - The Iniquity of the Amorites"). The act of "dwelling" in the land signifies more than temporary encampment or a passing military occupation; it implies taking permanent possession, establishing residence, and beginning the process of settlement. This initial settlement east of the Jordan would later be formalized and allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, as recorded in [Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Division of Land East of Jordan"), highlighting its lasting significance.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes present throughout the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. It profoundly underscores the theme of **Divine Faithfulness to Promise**, as God actively works to fulfill His ancient covenant with Abraham to give his descendants a land ([Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham")). It vividly demonstrates **God's Sovereignty and Power** over nations and their kings, as He delivers a formidable enemy like Sihon into Israel's hand, fighting on behalf of His chosen people ([Deuteronomy 2:30-31](/deuteronomy/2-30-31 "Deuteronomy 2:30-31 - God Hardens Sihon's Heart and Delivers Him")). Furthermore, the verse highlights the theme of **Conquest and Possession**, marking a significant transition from Israel's nomadic wandering in the wilderness to the initial stages of inheriting and settling the promised territory. This event serves as a crucial precursor to the full conquest of Canaan under Joshua, illustrating that every place upon which Israel's foot would tread would be given to them ([Joshua 1:3](/joshua/1-3 "Joshua 1:3 - Every Place Your Foot Treads")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Israel (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl'_):** From the root meaning "he will rule as God," this is the symbolic name given to Jacob, and by extension, to his posterity. In this context, it refers to the collective nation of God's covenant people. Its presence here emphasizes that it is God's chosen nation, acting under His divine mandate and power, that successfully takes possession of the land, not merely a random tribal group.
* **dwelt (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** A primitive root meaning "to sit down," and by implication, "to dwell," "to remain," or "to settle." This verb signifies more than a temporary stay or encampment; it implies establishing a permanent residence, inhabiting, and taking full possession. In Numbers 21:31, it underscores the completeness and permanence of the conquest, indicating Israel's lasting occupation of the territory, contrasting sharply with their previous nomadic existence in the wilderness.
* **land (Hebrew, _ʼerets'_):** From an unused root probably meaning "to be firm," this term refers to the earth at large or, more specifically, a defined territory or country. Here, it emphasizes the tangible, physical nature of the inheritance God was providing—a distinct geographical region formerly belonging to the Amorites. This highlights the concrete fulfillment of the land promise, not as a vague concept but as a specific, conquered domain.
* **Amorites (Hebrew, _ʼĔmôrîy'_):** Probably a patronymic from an unused name derived from a root meaning "prominence," thus "a mountaineer." This term identifies a specific, historically prominent, and often formidable people group in Canaan and Transjordan. Their defeat and the subsequent occupation of their land underscore God's power to overcome powerful adversaries and His faithfulness in dispossessing the inhabitants of the land for Israel, demonstrating His sovereign control over nations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus Israel":** This phrase serves as a direct logical connector, indicating that what follows is the immediate and direct consequence and summary of the preceding narrative, particularly the divinely empowered victory over Sihon. It emphasizes Israel as the collective entity, the recipient and beneficiary of God's action and the one now inhabiting the conquered territory.
* **"dwelt":** This crucial verb signifies the actual, established occupation and permanent possession of the territory. It marks a profound and significant shift from their long period of wandering in the wilderness to a state of settlement and habitation, albeit in a preliminary stage before crossing the Jordan into Canaan proper. This verb highlights the lasting nature of their presence.
* **"in the land of the Amorites":** This specifies the exact geographical and political reality of their new dwelling. It identifies the conquered territory as the former domain of Sihon, king of the Amorites, thereby reinforcing the theme of divine judgment on the Amorites and the tangible fulfillment of God's promise to give Israel the land, demonstrating the transfer of ownership and control.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 21:31 employs several significant literary devices. It functions as a **Summary Statement**, concisely encapsulating the outcome of the preceding detailed battle narrative, providing a definitive closure to that specific conflict and reinforcing the success of the campaign. It also acts as a statement of **Fulfillment**, demonstrating the tangible realization of God's promise to give Israel land, even before they enter Canaan proper, thereby affirming His covenant faithfulness. The verse represents a crucial **Transition** in Israel's journey, moving from a prolonged period of constant wandering to an initial phase of settlement and territorial acquisition, marking a new stage in their national development. Furthermore, it serves as a powerful **Geographical Marker**, firmly establishing Israel's presence and control in a new and significant region east of the Jordan, strategically setting the stage for subsequent events and the eventual full conquest of the promised land.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 21:31 is a profound statement about God's unwavering faithfulness and His active, sovereign involvement in the destiny of His people. It demonstrates that God's promises are not mere words or distant ideals but will be tangibly fulfilled in history, often through miraculous intervention and even military conquest. This verse underscores the concept of divine sovereignty over nations, revealing that God orchestrates historical events and empowers His people to achieve His redemptive purposes for Israel. It also highlights the theme of inheritance and possession, emphasizing that God's people are called to actively "take possession" of what He has promised, relying on His strength for victory against formidable adversaries.

* [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "God's Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land")
* [Deuteronomy 2:30-31](/deuteronomy/2-30-31 "God Hardens Sihon's Heart and Delivers Him to Israel")
* [Joshua 21:43](/joshua/21-43 "The LORD Gave Israel All the Land He Swore to Give Their Fathers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 21:31 offers powerful and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. Just as God was utterly faithful to His ancient promises to Israel, enabling them to overcome formidable obstacles and take possession of the land, He remains faithful to His covenant promises to us today. This narrative encourages us to cultivate unwavering trust in God's power to lead us through our own "wilderness" experiences and to overcome the "giants" or spiritual strongholds that stand in the way of His purposes for our lives. It reminds us that our spiritual inheritance in Christ is not a passive gift but often requires active engagement, obedient perseverance, and complete reliance on divine strength. The "dwelling" in the land can symbolize entering into the spiritual rest, peace, and abundant life that are ours in Christ, a reality often preceded by spiritual warfare and faithful perseverance. We are called to actively "take possession" of the spiritual truths and promises God has given us, living them out fully in our daily lives, confident that He who promised is faithful to perform it.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Israel's successful dwelling in the Amorite land encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness to His promises in our own lives, especially when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges?**
* **What "giants" or significant obstacles are you currently facing in your spiritual journey or personal life, and how can this narrative inspire you to rely on God for victory and breakthrough?**
* **In what practical ways are you called to "dwell" or take possession of the spiritual inheritance God has prepared for you in Christ, moving from mere knowledge to lived experience?**

### FAQ
**Why was the conquest of Sihon's territory significant for Israel?**

Answer: The conquest of Sihon's territory was profoundly significant for several reasons. It marked Israel's first major territorial acquisition, providing them with a secure and strategically important base east of the Jordan River. This victory powerfully demonstrated God's power and faithfulness to His covenant promises, showing that He was actively fighting for His people and enabling them to dispossess the inhabitants of the land. It also set a crucial precedent for future conquests, affirming that God would indeed deliver their enemies into their hands as they moved towards the full inheritance of Canaan. This land later became the permanent dwelling place for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh ([Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Division of Land East of Jordan")), underscoring its lasting importance.

**Who were the Amorites, and why is their defeat mentioned specifically?**

Answer: The Amorites were a prominent Semitic people group who had established significant kingdoms in the ancient Near East, including parts of Canaan and Transjordan, long before Israel's arrival. They are often depicted in the biblical narrative as formidable and powerful enemies, representing a significant obstacle to Israel's progress. Their defeat is mentioned specifically to highlight the magnitude of Israel's victory, which was not due to their own strength but entirely to God's intervention. It underscores God's ability to overcome even the most powerful adversaries and His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His covenant promises to dispossess the wicked inhabitants of the land for His chosen people, as seen in [Deuteronomy 2:30-31](/deuteronomy/2-30-31 "Deuteronomy 2:30-31 - God Hardens Sihon's Heart and Delivers Him").

**Does "dwelt" imply permanent settlement, or was it temporary?**

Answer: The term "dwelt" (Hebrew: _yāshab'_) in this context implies a permanent occupation and establishment of residence, rather than a temporary encampment or passing military presence. While the ultimate goal for Israel was to inherit the land of Canaan west of the Jordan, this specific territory east of the Jordan became a permanent possession for certain tribes. It was later formally allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who chose to settle there and make it their home ([Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Division of Land East of Jordan")). Thus, Numbers 21:31 signifies the initial, lasting occupation of a significant portion of their promised inheritance, marking a transition from nomadic wandering to settled life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 21:31, with Israel's physical conquest and subsequent dwelling in the land of the Amorites, powerfully foreshadows the spiritual conquest and eternal inheritance believers receive through Jesus Christ. Just as God delivered Sihon into Israel's hand, Christ, our greater Joshua, has decisively triumphed over the spiritual powers of darkness, spoiling principalities and powers and making a public spectacle of them on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, Jesus has conquered sin, death, and the devil, securing for us an eternal inheritance that is infinitely greater than any earthly territory. We, as spiritual Israel, are called to "dwell" not in a physical land, but "in Christ," where we are spiritually united with Him, seated with Him in heavenly places ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Seated with Christ in Heavenly Places")), and blessed with every spiritual blessing ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). The "rest" Israel found in the land points to the ultimate spiritual rest and abiding peace available to those who believe in Jesus and enter into His finished work ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People")). Our "battle" is no longer against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, yet victory is assured through the indwelling power of Christ within us ([Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Our Struggle Against Spiritual Forces")). Thus, Numbers 21:31 points us to the glorious reality of our spiritual dwelling and victory in Christ.

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 12:1

¶ Now these [are] the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east:

Joshua 12:6

Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it [for] a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh.

Deuteronomy 3:16

And unto the Reubenites and unto the Gadites I gave from Gilead even unto the river Arnon half the valley, and the border even unto the river Jabbok, [which is] the border of the children of Ammon;

Deuteronomy 3:17

The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast [thereof], from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.

Numbers 32:33

And Moses gave unto them, [even] to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, [even] the cities of the country round about.

Numbers 32:42

And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.

Joshua 13:8

With whom the Reubenites and the Gadites have received their inheritance, which Moses gave them, beyond Jordan eastward, [even] as Moses the servant of the LORD gave them;