What does Numbers 21:22 mean?

"Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders." - Numbers 21:22

"Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders." - Numbers 21:22

In Numbers 21:22, the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads, "Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well; but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders."

This verse is part of a larger narrative found in the book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Pentateuch or Torah. The book of Numbers primarily focuses on the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after they were liberated from slavery in Egypt. Throughout their journey, the Israelites faced numerous challenges and tests of faith, and this verse is part of a passage that describes their interactions with the various nations and peoples they encountered along the way.

In this particular verse, the Israelites are seeking permission to pass through the land of the Amorites. They make a specific request, stating that they will not turn into the fields or vineyards, nor will they drink from the well, as they plan to stay on the king's highway until they have left the borders of the Amorite territory. This reflects a respectful and diplomatic approach to their interactions with the Amorites, as the Israelites seek to avoid any unnecessary conflict or disturbance to the inhabitants of the land they are passing through.

There are several themes and lessons that can be drawn from this verse. Firstly, the concept of respect for the rights and property of others is evident. The Israelites demonstrate a willingness to abide by the rules and boundaries set by the Amorites, showing a sense of propriety and honor in their dealings with others. This can be seen as a lesson in diplomacy and the importance of maintaining peaceful and respectful relations with neighboring nations.

Additionally, the verse highlights the Israelites' adherence to the principle of honest and fair dealings. They make it clear that they have no intention of taking advantage of the resources or territory of the Amorites, but simply wish to pass through peacefully. This can be interpreted as a lesson in integrity and the importance of upholding one's word and commitments, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.

From a symbolic standpoint, the king's highway mentioned in the verse can be seen as a metaphor for the path of righteousness and obedience to God's will. By choosing to stay on the king's highway and not veer into the fields or vineyards, the Israelites are making a deliberate choice to follow the prescribed route and stay on course. This can be viewed as a symbol of the importance of staying true to one's faith and principles, even when faced with temptation or distraction.

In terms of the broader context of the book of Numbers, this verse is part of the Israelites' overall journey towards the promised land of Canaan. Their interactions with the various nations they encounter along the way serve as a test of their faith and obedience to God, as well as a reminder of the challenges and trials they must overcome in order to reach their ultimate destination. This verse, therefore, can be viewed as a microcosm of the larger themes of faith, obedience, and integrity that permeate the narrative of the Israelites' wilderness journey.

In conclusion, Numbers 21:22 presents a succinct and significant moment in the larger story of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Through its themes of respect, integrity, and obedience, the verse imparts valuable lessons and insights that remain relevant and applicable to readers today. As part of the rich tapestry of the biblical narrative, this verse serves as a reminder of the timeless principles and values that continue to guide and inspire believers in their own spiritual journeys.

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Numbers 21:22 Artwork

Numbers 21:22 - "Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders."

Numbers 21:22 - "Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders."

"Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders." - Numbers 21:22

"Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king's high way, until we be past thy borders." - Numbers 21:22

Numbers 22:21 - "And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab."

Numbers 22:21 - "And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab."

"And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab." - Numbers 22:21

"And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab." - Numbers 22:21

Picture representing Numbers 21:21-35

Picture representing Numbers 21:21-35

Numbers 21:21 - "¶ And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,"

Numbers 21:21 - "¶ And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,"

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Moses serpent numbers 21

Moses serpent numbers 21

Genesis 21:22

Genesis 21:22

Genesis 22-21

Genesis 22-21

Numbers 6:22 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Numbers 6:22 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Numbers 7:22 - "One kid of the goats for a sin offering:"

Numbers 7:22 - "One kid of the goats for a sin offering:"

Numbers 33:22 - "And they journeyed from Rissah, and pitched in Kehelathah."

Numbers 33:22 - "And they journeyed from Rissah, and pitched in Kehelathah."

Numbers 4:21 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Numbers 4:21 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"

Numbers 34:21 - "Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon."

Numbers 34:21 - "Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon."

Numbers 21:31 - "¶ Thus Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites."

Numbers 21:31 - "¶ Thus Israel dwelt in the land of the Amorites."

Numbers 33:21 - "And they removed from Libnah, and pitched at Rissah."

Numbers 33:21 - "And they removed from Libnah, and pitched at Rissah."

Picture of Numbers 21:1-3

Picture of Numbers 21:1-3

Moses fiery serpent numbers 21

Moses fiery serpent numbers 21

Acts 1:21-22

Acts 1:21-22

Numbers 21:10 - "¶ And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in Oboth."

Numbers 21:10 - "¶ And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in Oboth."

Numbers 21:19 - "And from Mattanah to Nahaliel: and from Nahaliel to Bamoth:"

Numbers 21:19 - "And from Mattanah to Nahaliel: and from Nahaliel to Bamoth:"

Numbers 21:12 - "¶ From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared."

Numbers 21:12 - "¶ From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared."

Acts 1:21-22

Acts 1:21-22

Numbers 34:22 - "And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan, Bukki the son of Jogli."

Numbers 34:22 - "And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan, Bukki the son of Jogli."

Numbers 22:39 - "And Balaam went with Balak, and they came unto Kirjath-huzoth."

Numbers 22:39 - "And Balaam went with Balak, and they came unto Kirjath-huzoth."