Numbers 33:51 Meaning and Explanation
“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye are passed over Jordan into the land of Canaan;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God instructed Moses to tell Israel what they must do when entering Canaan.
The Context of Numbers 33:51
God prepared to instruct Israel regarding their conduct upon entering Canaan.
What Does Numbers 33:51 Mean?
God's instruction to speak to Israel 'when ye are passed over Jordan' showed confidence that the crossing would occur and that Israel would enter Canaan successfully. The conditional 'when' rather than 'if' affirmed God's commitment to Israel's inheritance. The instructions that followed would govern Israel's conduct regarding the land's inhabitants and their religious practices.
The transition from wilderness wandering to the conquest of Canaan was not left to chance or human decision-making. God had planned the conquest in detail and now provided Israel with specific instructions. The covenant relationship between God and Israel would shape how they treated the land, its former inhabitants, and their own worship practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 33:51
What does Numbers 33:51 mean?
God instructed Moses to tell Israel what they must do when entering Canaan.
What is the context of Numbers 33:51?
God prepared to instruct Israel regarding their conduct upon entering Canaan.