King James Version
What Does Numbers 21:14 Mean?
“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, What: or, Vaheb in Suphah”
Numbers 21:14 · KJV
Context
12
From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.
13
From thence they removed, and pitched on the other side of Arnon, which is in the wilderness that cometh out of the coasts of the Amorites: for Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites.
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, What: or, Vaheb in Suphah
15
And at the stream of the brooks that goeth down to the dwelling of Ar, and lieth upon the border of Moab. lieth: Heb. leaneth
16
And from thence they went to Beer: that is the well whereof the LORD spake unto Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryIn the book of the wars of the LORD (בְּסֵפֶר מִלְחֲמֹת יְהוָה, be-sefer milchamot YHWH)—Moses cites an ancient military chronicle, now lost, documenting Yahweh's victories. This proves biblical writers used historical sources and expected readers to verify references. What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon parallels the Exodus deliverance with Transjordan conquest—both were milchamot YHWH (wars of the LORD), divine interventions in history.
The citation's fragmentary nature (verses 14-15) suggests poetic quotation. Scripture itself acknowledges non-canonical sources as historically valid, while remaining the sole inspired authority. God's mighty acts were public knowledge, recorded in multiple witnesses.
The citation's fragmentary nature (verses 14-15) suggests poetic quotation. Scripture itself acknowledges non-canonical sources as historically valid, while remaining the sole inspired authority. God's mighty acts were public knowledge, recorded in multiple witnesses.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings maintained annals of military campaigns. Israel's 'Book of the Wars of the LORD' may have been a collection of victory songs and battle accounts, similar to Egyptian campaign records or Assyrian annals, but crediting Yahweh rather than human kings.
Reflection Questions
- How does Scripture's citation of external sources strengthen rather than weaken its authority and reliability?
- What 'wars of the LORD' in your life deserve documentation as testimonies to His faithfulness?
- How can you ensure your spiritual victories are recorded for others' encouragement and God's glory?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 12 wordsעַל1 of 12
H5921above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּן֙2 of 12
H3651properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
יְהוָ֑ה6 of 12
“of the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֶת7 of 12
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאֶת10 of 12
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַנְּחָלִ֖ים11 of 12
“and in the brooks”
H5158a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 21:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 21:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge