Numbers 33:40
New International Version
The Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming.

New Living Translation
At that time the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard that the people of Israel were approaching his land.

English Standard Version
And the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the Negeb in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the people of Israel.

Berean Standard Bible
Now the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming.

King James Bible
And king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

New King James Version
Now the king of Arad, the Canaanite, who dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

New American Standard Bible
Now the Canaanite, the king of Arad who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard about the coming of the sons of Israel.

NASB 1995
Now the Canaanite, the king of Arad who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the sons of Israel.

NASB 1977
Now the Canaanite, the king of Arad who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the sons of Israel.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now the Canaanite, the king of Arad who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard when the sons of Israel were coming.

Amplified Bible
The Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev (the South country) in the land of Canaan, heard that the sons of Israel were coming.

Christian Standard Bible
At that time the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard the Israelites were coming.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
At that time the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard the Israelites were coming.

American Standard Version
And the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

Contemporary English Version
It was then that the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Southern Desert of Canaan, heard that Israel was headed that way.

English Revised Version
And the Canaanite, the king of Arad, which dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
(The Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev, which was in Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming.)

Good News Translation
The king of Arad in southern Canaan heard that the Israelites were coming.

International Standard Version
Meanwhile, the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard of the approach of the Israelis,

NET Bible
The king of Arad, the Canaanite king who lived in the south of the land of Canaan, heard about the approach of the Israelites.

New Heart English Bible
The Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

Webster's Bible Translation
And king Arad the Canaanite who dwelt in the south in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Now the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming.

World English Bible
The Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And the Canaanite, king of Arad, who is dwelling in the south in the land of Canaan, hears of the coming of the sons of Israel.

Young's Literal Translation
And the Canaanite -- king Arad -- who is dwelling in the south, in the land of Canaan, heareth of the coming of the sons of Israel.

Smith's Literal Translation
And the Canaanite, king Arad, will hear, and he will dwell in the south in the land Canaan, in the coming of the sons of Israel.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And king Arad the Chanaanite, who dwelt towards the south, heard that the children of Israel were come to the land of Chanaan.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And king Arad the Canaanite, who lived toward the south, heard that the sons of Israel had arrived in the land of Canaan.

New American Bible
When the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who ruled over the Negeb in the land of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming. . ..

New Revised Standard Version
The Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the Negeb in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the Israelites.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And the king of Gadar the Canaanite, who dwelt in the south in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the Canaanite King of Gadar who dwelt in the south in the land of Canaan heard when the children of Israel came.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.--

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And Arad the Chananitish king (he too dwelt in the land of Chanaan) having heard when the children of Israel were entering the land -

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Forty-Two Journeys of the Israelites
39Aaron was 123 years old when he died on Mount Hor. 40Now the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming. 41And the Israelites set out from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah.…

Cross References
Joshua 12:7-8
And these are the kings of the land that Joshua and the Israelites conquered beyond the Jordan to the west, from Baal-gad in the Valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which rises toward Seir (according to the allotments to the tribes of Israel, Joshua gave them as an inheritance / the hill country, the foothills, the Arabah, the slopes, the wilderness, and the Negev—the lands of the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites):

Deuteronomy 2:24-25
“Arise, set out, and cross the Arnon Valley. See, I have delivered into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to take possession of it and engage him in battle. / This very day I will begin to put the dread and fear of you upon all the nations under heaven. They will hear the reports of you and tremble in anguish because of you.”

Joshua 13:21
all the cities of the plateau and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon until Moses killed him and the chiefs of Midian (Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba), the princes of Sihon who lived in the land.

Deuteronomy 3:1-3
Then we turned and went up the road to Bashan, and Og king of Bashan and his whole army came out to meet us in battle at Edrei. / But the LORD said to me, “Do not fear him, for I have delivered him into your hand, along with all his people and his land. Do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon.” / So the LORD our God also delivered Og king of Bashan and his whole army into our hands. We struck them down until no survivor was left.

Joshua 24:8
Later, I brought you to the land of the Amorites who lived beyond the Jordan. They fought against you, but I delivered them into your hand, that you should possess their land when I destroyed them before you.

Judges 11:19-21
And Israel sent messengers to Sihon king of the Amorites, who ruled in Heshbon, and said to him, ‘Please let us pass through your land into our own place.’ / But Sihon would not trust Israel to pass through his territory. So he gathered all his people, encamped in Jahaz, and fought with Israel. / Then the LORD, the God of Israel, delivered Sihon and all his people into the hand of Israel, who defeated them. So Israel took possession of all the land of the Amorites who inhabited that country,

Deuteronomy 2:32-33
So Sihon and his whole army came out for battle against us at Jahaz. / And the LORD our God delivered him over to us, and we defeated him and his sons and his whole army.

Joshua 2:9-11
and said to them, “I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you. / For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites across the Jordan, whom you devoted to destruction. / When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in the heavens above and on the earth below.

Joshua 9:1-2
Now when news of this reached all the kings west of the Jordan—those in the hill country, the foothills, and all along the coast of the Great Sea toward Lebanon (the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites)— / they came together to wage war against Joshua and Israel.

Joshua 11:1-5
Now when Jabin king of Hazor heard about these things, he sent word to Jobab king of Madon; to the kings of Shimron and Achshaph; / to the kings of the north in the mountains, in the Arabah south of Chinnereth, in the foothills, and in Naphoth-dor to the west; / to the Canaanites in the east and west; to the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, and Jebusites in the hill country; and to the Hivites at the foot of Hermon in the land of Mizpah. ...

Psalm 83:6-8
the tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites, of Moab and the Hagrites, / of Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek, of Philistia with the people of Tyre. / Even Assyria has joined them, lending strength to the sons of Lot. Selah

Amos 2:9-10
Yet it was I who destroyed the Amorite before them, though his height was like that of the cedars, and he was as strong as the oaks. Yet I destroyed his fruit above and his roots below. / And I brought you up from the land of Egypt and led you forty years in the wilderness, that you might take possession of the land of the Amorite.

1 Kings 4:19
Geber son of Uri in the land of Gilead, including the territories of Sihon king of the Amorites and of Og king of Bashan. There was also one governor in the land of Judah.

1 Chronicles 5:11
The descendants of Gad lived next to the Reubenites in the land of Bashan, as far as Salecah:

1 Chronicles 5:23
Now the people of the half-tribe of Manasseh were numerous. They settled in the land from Bashan to Baal-hermon (that is, Senir, also known as Mount Hermon).


Treasury of Scripture

And king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelled in the south in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.

Numbers 21:1-3
And when king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south, heard tell that Israel came by the way of the spies; then he fought against Israel, and took some of them prisoners…

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Numbers 33
1. The forty-two journeys of the Israelites
50. The Canaanites are to be destroyed














Now the Canaanite king of Arad
The Canaanite king of Arad is a reference to a local ruler in the southern region of Canaan. Arad was a city located in the Negev, a desert region in the southern part of modern-day Israel. This king represents the indigenous Canaanite peoples who inhabited the land before the arrival of the Israelites. The Canaanites were known for their fortified cities and advanced culture, which posed a significant challenge to the Israelites. The mention of a specific king highlights the organized resistance the Israelites would face as they entered the Promised Land.

who lived in the Negev
The Negev is a large desert region in the southern part of Israel. It is characterized by its arid climate and sparse vegetation. The Negev was a strategic area for the Israelites as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. Living in such a harsh environment, the inhabitants, including the Canaanites, were likely skilled in survival and warfare. The Negev's location made it a critical area for controlling trade routes and military movements, which would have been of interest to both the Canaanites and the Israelites.

in the land of Canaan
Canaan refers to the ancient region that encompasses modern-day Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and parts of Jordan and Syria. It was the land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:7). The land of Canaan was known for its diverse geography and was inhabited by various peoples, including the Canaanites, Amorites, Hittites, and others. The conquest of Canaan was a central theme in the Israelite narrative, representing the fulfillment of God's promise and the establishment of a nation set apart for His purposes.

heard that the Israelites were coming
The news of the Israelites' approach would have spread quickly among the Canaanite cities, causing concern and fear. The Israelites, having been delivered from Egypt and sustained in the wilderness, were seen as a formidable force. This phrase indicates the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham. The anticipation of the Israelites' arrival would have prompted the Canaanite king of Arad to prepare for conflict, as seen in Numbers 21:1, where he attacks the Israelites. This foreshadows the numerous battles that would occur as the Israelites sought to claim their inheritance.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Canaanite King of Arad
A ruler in the region of Canaan, specifically in the Negev, who becomes aware of the approaching Israelites. His awareness signifies the growing reputation and perceived threat of the Israelites as they journey towards the Promised Land.

2. The Negev
A desert region in the southern part of ancient Israel. It is significant as a geographical area that the Israelites had to traverse on their way to the Promised Land.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, led by Moses, who are on their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Their journey is marked by numerous challenges and divine interventions.

4. The Journey to the Promised Land
This event is part of the larger account of the Exodus, where the Israelites are moving towards the land promised to them by God, facing various obstacles and enemies along the way.
Teaching Points
Awareness of Opposition
Just as the king of Arad became aware of the Israelites, believers should be aware that spiritual opposition often arises when they are moving in obedience to God's will.

Trust in God's Promises
The Israelites' journey through the Negev and their encounters with opposition remind us to trust in God's promises, even when the path seems difficult or uncertain.

The Importance of Faithful Obedience
The Israelites' experience teaches the importance of faithful obedience to God's commands, as it is through obedience that they were able to overcome their enemies.

God's Sovereignty in Battles
The account underscores God's sovereignty in the battles we face, reminding us that victory comes through His power and not our own strength.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Numbers 33:40?

2. How does Numbers 33:40 demonstrate God's faithfulness to Israel's journey?

3. What can we learn from the Israelites' response to the Canaanite king's actions?

4. How does Numbers 33:40 connect with God's promises in Genesis 12:7?

5. How should believers today respond to opposition, as seen in Numbers 33:40?

6. What strategies can we use to trust God amidst challenges, like Israel did?

7. What historical evidence supports the existence of the Canaanite king Arad mentioned in Numbers 33:40?

8. How does Numbers 33:40 reflect God's promise to the Israelites regarding the Promised Land?

9. Why is the defeat of Arad significant in the broader narrative of Israel's journey?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 33?

11. How can the spies' 40-day exploration (Numbers 13:25) realistically cover all the territories listed?

12. Deuteronomy 2:14 notes a 38-year delay, yet the Bible elsewhere often references 40 years; is there a timeline inconsistency?

13. Where is the historical record or physical proof of Anak's descendants mentioned in Numbers 13:22 and 13:33?

14. Numbers 33:50-56: Why does the text insist on divinely sanctioned warfare for taking the land when later prophets and passages emphasize peace, suggesting an inconsistency in divine commands?
What Does Numbers 33:40 Mean
now

• “Now” signals a fresh entry in Moses’ travel log (Numbers 33:1-2), anchoring this note to the literal journey motif that runs through the chapter.

• It reminds us that God orders time and movement (Psalm 31:15); every “now” in Scripture is part of His unfolding plan.

• The placement just after the record of Aaron’s death (Numbers 33:38-39) underscores God’s faithfulness even when leaders change (Deuteronomy 31:6).


the Canaanite king of Arad

• This same ruler attacked Israel earlier (Numbers 21:1-3), prompting the vow and victory at Hormah—proof that God keeps His promises of protection (Exodus 23:22-23).

• “King” highlights political power; “Arad” specifies the city (Joshua 12:14). God is not dealing with faceless foes but with identifiable powers He will judge (Genesis 15:16).

• Israel’s earlier triumph at Hormah had already demonstrated the Lord’s supremacy; this mention reminds readers that no enemy is forgotten before God (Psalm 9:5).


who lived in the Negev

• The Negev is the arid southern region of Canaan (Genesis 12:9). Its harsh terrain underscores the king’s resolve—he rules even in tough places, yet remains subject to God’s purposes (Jeremiah 23:24).

• Israel had skirted this area during the wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:25), so the king’s domain sits directly in the path toward the promised inheritance (Deuteronomy 1:7).

• God’s earlier pledge to give Israel “every place the sole of your foot treads” (Joshua 1:3) includes deserts as surely as valleys.


in the land of Canaan

• This phrase ties the narrative back to the covenant promise first given to Abraham (Genesis 17:8). What began as a promise to one patriarch now confronts entrenched kingdoms.

• It highlights a literal geographic fulfillment—Israel is not wandering aimlessly but advancing into the very territory God swore to give them (Exodus 6:4).

• The repetition of “Canaan” stresses ownership transfer: human rulers may occupy the land temporarily, yet ultimate title rests with the Lord (Leviticus 25:23).


heard that the Israelites were coming

• News of Israel’s approach spreads quickly, echoing earlier reports that melted hearts from Red Sea onward (Exodus 15:14-16; Joshua 2:9-11).

• Hearing incites fear; Israel hasn’t even drawn swords here, yet God’s reputation precedes them (Deuteronomy 2:25).

• The phrase shows divine preparation: opposition lines up according to God’s timetable, ensuring that every confrontation magnifies His glory (Romans 9:17).

• For believers today, it illustrates spiritual reality—when God’s people advance in obedience, unseen realms take notice (Ephesians 6:12-13).


summary

Numbers 33:40 is more than a travel note; it testifies that every step of Israel’s journey unfolds under God’s sovereign hand. The king of Arad, settled in the Negev stronghold of Canaan, hears of Israel’s advance and is forced to reckon with the God who fulfills His word. The verse assures us that no enemy, however entrenched, can ignore the movement of God’s covenant people, and it reminds us that the Lord prepares both His children and their circumstances so His promises come to pass in time and space.

(40) And King Arad . . . --See Numbers 21:1, and Note.

Verse 40. - And king Arad... heard of the coming. See on chapter Numbers 21:1. The introduction of this notice, for which there seems no motive, and which has no assignable connection with the context, is extremely perplexing. It is not simply a fragment which has slipped in by what we call accident (like Deuteronomy 10:6, 7), for the longer statement in chapter Numbers 21:1-3 occupies the same position in the historical narrative immediately after the death of Aaron. It is difficult to suppose that Moses wrote this verse and left it as it stands; it would rather seem as if a later hand had begun to copy out a statement from some earlier document - in which it had itself perhaps become misplaced - and had not gone on with it.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Now the Canaanite
הַֽכְּנַעֲנִי֙ (hak·kə·na·‘ă·nî)
Article | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3669: Canaanite -- inhabitant of Canaan

king
מֶ֣לֶךְ (me·leḵ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4428: A king

of Arad,
עֲרָ֔ד (‘ă·rāḏ)
Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 6166: Arad -- a Canaanite city in the Negev

who lived
יֹשֵׁ֥ב (yō·šêḇ)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3427: To sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marry

in the Negev
בַּנֶּ֖גֶב (ban·ne·ḡeḇ)
Preposition-b, Article | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 5045: South country, the Negeb, south

in the land
בְּאֶ֣רֶץ (bə·’e·reṣ)
Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 776: Earth, land

of Canaan,
כְּנָ֑עַן (kə·nā·‘an)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3667: Canaan -- a son of Ham, also his descendants and their land West of the Jordan

heard
וַיִּשְׁמַ֗ע (way·yiš·ma‘)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

that the Israelites
בְּנֵ֥י (bə·nê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 1121: A son

were coming.
בְּבֹ֖א (bə·ḇō)
Preposition-b | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go


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OT Law: Numbers 33:40 The Canaanite the king of Arad who (Nu Num.)
Numbers 33:39
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