Book of Numbers - Chapter 21 - Verse 35

In this verse, we see a harsh reality of conquest and warfare depicted in the Old Testament. The context of this verse is a battle in which the enemy forces completely defeated and destroyed the people of a specific land. The phrase "So they smote him, and his sons, and all his people, until there was none left him alive: and they possessed his land" conveys the brutal nature of ancient warfare and illustrates the consequences of being on the losing side of a conflict. The enemy not only killed the ruler and his family but also all the inhabitants of the land, leaving no survivors. This resulted in the complete possession of the land by the conquering forces. This verse serves as a reminder of the violence and destruction that often accompanied wars in ancient societies, highlighting the tragic consequences of conflict and the high stakes involved in battles for power and land.

In this verse, we see a grim picture of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The act of 'smiting' the ruler, his sons, and all his people until there was no one left alive highlights the severity of the judgment that was brought upon them. This brings to light the principle of collective responsibility and the interconnectedness of individuals within a community. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the justice and righteousness of God, who punishes sin and disobedience. It also serves as a warning for us to take heed of our actions, as they not only affect us individually but also impact those around us. Word studies on terms like 'smote' and 'possessed' can provide further insight into the historical context and the meaning of these actions within the narrative. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and the consequences of straying from God's commands.