Numbers 21:27
Wherefore they that speak in proverbs say, Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared:
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כֵּ֛ן
H3651
כֵּ֛ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
הַמֹּֽשְׁלִ֖ים
Wherefore they that speak in proverbs
H4911
הַמֹּֽשְׁלִ֖ים
Wherefore they that speak in proverbs
Strong's:
H4911
Word #:
4 of 10
to liken, i.e., (transitively) to use figurative language (an allegory, adage, song or the like); intransitively, to resemble
וְתִכּוֹנֵ֖ן
and prepared
H3559
וְתִכּוֹנֵ֖ן
and prepared
Strong's:
H3559
Word #:
8 of 10
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern victory songs were common (cf. Exodus 15, Judges 5). This fragment suggests Amorites had their own bardic tradition. Moses' quotation demonstrates that oral poetry transmitted historical memory across cultures, and biblical writers engaged with extra-biblical sources while maintaining inspired authority.
Questions for Reflection
- Where have you seen boastful victories reversed by God's justice and sovereignty?
- How does God's ironic use of enemy songs and circumstances encourage you when opponents seem triumphant?
- What 'proverbs' or cultural sayings might God be ironically fulfilling in unexpected ways around you?
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Analysis & Commentary
Wherefore they that speak in proverbs say (הַמֹּשְׁלִים, ha-moshelim, "the parable-makers")—Moses quotes an ancient victory song, possibly Amorite, celebrating Sihon's earlier conquest of Heshbon from Moab. Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared—The taunt invited settlement in newly conquered territory. Ironically, Israel now sings the victor's song after defeating Sihon himself.
Scripture preserves pagan poetry to demonstrate historical reversal. The conqueror becomes conquered; the boast becomes epitaph. Israel's use of Amorite victory songs to celebrate Amorite defeat shows divine irony—history's wheel turns under God's hand.