Numbers 13:22 Meaning and Explanation
“And they ascended by the south, and came unto Hebron; where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the children of Anak, were. (Now Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The spies reach Hebron and encounter the Anakim, giants descended from Anak.
The Context of Numbers 13:22
The spies encounter giants at Hebron and observe the city's antiquity and strength.
What Does Numbers 13:22 Mean?
The spies ascend to Hebron, a significant settlement in the hill country. There they observe the presence of giants—Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai—who are descendants of Anak. This encounter is the first concrete evidence of powerful inhabitants in the land.
The parenthetical note about Hebron's age compared to Zoan in Egypt provides historical context, suggesting that Hebron is an ancient, well-established city with a developed civilization.
Numbers 13:22 in the Original Language
Anak (עָנָק), 'Anak' — traditionally understood to mean 'tall' or 'long-necked'; the Anakim are presented as a people of exceptional size and strength.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 13:22
What does Numbers 13:22 mean?
The spies reach Hebron and encounter the Anakim, giants descended from Anak.
What is the context of Numbers 13:22?
The spies encounter giants at Hebron and observe the city's antiquity and strength.