Deuteronomy 7:20
Moreover the LORD thy God will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from thee, be destroyed.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Exodus 23:28 and Joshua 24:12 also mention the 'hornet,' suggesting this was a known phenomenon in Canaan's conquest. Some identify this with Egyptian military campaigns that weakened Canaan prior to Israel's arrival. Others see literal hornets/wasps driving populations from certain areas. Archaeological evidence shows some Canaanite cities were abandoned or weakened before Israel's arrival. Whether literal or metaphorical, the principle is clear: God prepared the way for Israel's conquest through means beyond their military effort.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use 'small' or unexpected means to accomplish His purposes in your life?
- What evidence do you see of God's providential preparation making way for the 'impossible' to occur?
- How should recognizing God's sovereignty over all creation (down to hornets) affect your trust in His control?
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Analysis & Commentary
The 'hornet' (tsir'ah) represents God's use of natural means and terror to accomplish His purposes. Some scholars debate whether this is literal (insects driving out inhabitants) or metaphorical (divinely-sent panic). Either way, it demonstrates God's comprehensive control over all creation—even small creatures serve His purposes. The phrase 'until they... be destroyed' shows God's thorough completion of judgment. This illustrates divine sovereignty working through both miraculous intervention and natural means. God's providence governs all things, great and small. In spiritual warfare, believers recognize that Christ has defeated Satan and evil through the cross (Colossians 2:15), and God uses various means to accomplish His sanctifying work.