Numbers 21:3 Meaning and Explanation
“And the LORD hearkened to the voice of Israel, and delivered up the Canaanites; and they utterly destroyed them and their cities: and he called the name of the place Hormah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God answers Israel's vow by giving them victory over the Canaanites, and the place is named Hormah.
The Context of Numbers 21:3
God grants Israel victory and the place receives a name reflecting this event.
What Does Numbers 21:3 Mean?
The text emphasizes that God 'hearkened'—actively listened and responded to Israel's prayer. The Canaanites are delivered into Israel's hand, fulfilling the condition of the vow and showing God's engagement with His people's plea.
Hormah means 'destruction' or 'desolation' in Hebrew, naming the site after the complete destruction that followed. The naming commemorates both the victory and Israel's fulfillment of their covenant promise.
Numbers 21:3 in the Original Language
Hormah (חׇרְמָה), 'destruction' — derived from cherem, meaning something dedicated wholly to destruction or set apart as sacred.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 21:3
What does Numbers 21:3 mean?
God answers Israel's vow by giving them victory over the Canaanites, and the place is named Hormah.
What is the context of Numbers 21:3?
God grants Israel victory and the place receives a name reflecting this event.