Numbers 20:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And Edom said unto him, Thou shalt not pass by me, lest I come out against thee with the sword.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Edom refuses passage and threatens military force.
The Context of Numbers 20:18
Edom refuses passage and threatens armed opposition.
What Does Numbers 20:18 Mean?
The king of Edom gives a flat refusal. He will not allow Israel to pass through his territory and threatens to use military force ('come out against thee with the sword') if they attempt it. This is a direct rejection of the appeal and a clear warning of consequences.
Despite Moses' diplomatic and reasonable approach, Edom chooses hostility over neighborly kindness. The refusal reflects the breakdown of kinship ties and suggests that the ancient relationship between Jacob and Esau has not fostered goodwill in their descendants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 20:18
What does Numbers 20:18 mean?
Edom refuses passage and threatens military force.
What is the context of Numbers 20:18?
Edom refuses passage and threatens armed opposition.