The number 21 holds significant meaning in biblical studies, often associated with divine wisdom, spiritual completion, and transitions. Numbers in the Bible are not just arbitrary; they carry symbolic meanings that provide deeper insights into God’s messages. The number 21 appears in various contexts throughout the scriptures, pointing to themes of divine perfection, spiritual maturity, and the completion of testing periods. Understanding its significance can enhance one’s interpretation of biblical narratives and personal spiritual growth. This exploration will delve into 15 distinct biblical meanings of the number 21, supported by scripture references, to provide a well-rounded view of its spiritual implications.
Table of Contents
General Biblical Meaning of 21
1. The Number 21 Represents a Period of Testing or Trial
The number 21 is often linked with a period of trial or testing in the Bible. The most notable example is found in Daniel 10, where Daniel fasted and prayed for 21 days before receiving a response from an angel. This signifies perseverance in faith and the importance of spiritual endurance.
Daniel 10:2-3
“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.”
This passage highlights the number 21 as a time of waiting and perseverance in seeking divine guidance.
2. Symbol of Spiritual Maturity and Completion
The number 21 can indicate a transition from one spiritual stage to another, symbolizing maturity. The number 7, which signifies divine completion, multiplied by 3 (a number representing divine perfection) results in 21, reinforcing the idea of spiritual growth.
1 Corinthians 13:11
“When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
This verse reflects the idea of spiritual maturity, which aligns with the biblical meaning of 21 as a number of growing in faith.
3. Representation of Deliverance and Freedom
The 21st day of the first month in the Jewish calendar marks the final day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which commemorates the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt. This reinforces the idea that 21 signifies liberation.
Exodus 14:21
“And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided.”
Here, the parting of the Red Sea represents God’s deliverance, linking 21 to divine rescue.
4. The Number of Divine Revelation
God often reveals His will after a period of waiting, which is reflected in the 21-day pattern in Daniel’s fasting. This suggests that 21 is associated with divine revelation.
Daniel 10:12-13
“Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.”
This passage confirms that divine answers come after perseverance.
5. Connection to the Second Coming of Christ
Many biblical scholars associate 21 with the Second Coming of Christ, as it signifies the completion of prophetic timelines.
Matthew 24:42
“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”
This verse emphasizes readiness for the fulfillment of God’s plan, aligning with the symbolism of 21.
6. Symbol of Divine Judgment
In the book of Revelation, 21 judgments (7 seals, 7 trumpets, and 7 bowls) are executed upon the earth, symbolizing divine judgment.
Revelation 16:17
“And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.”
This verse aligns with 21 representing finality in God’s judgment.
7. The Number of Divine Order
The number 21 follows 20, which symbolizes expectation. It represents the fulfillment of divine order.
Psalm 119:105
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
This verse signifies God’s guidance, aligning with the order brought by 21.
8. The Completion of Wickedness
The last king of Judah, Zedekiah, reigned for 11 years before Jerusalem was destroyed in the 21st year, symbolizing the end of unrighteous rule.
2 Kings 25:2
“And the city was besieged unto the eleventh year of king Zedekiah.”
This passage shows 21 as a marker of judgment upon wickedness.
9. Associated with Prayer and Fasting
Daniel’s 21-day fast shows that 21 is connected to persistence in prayer.
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
This verse reinforces the persistence seen in Daniel’s fasting.
10. The Number of Redemption
21 can signify the completion of redemption, as seen in the final deliverance of the Israelites.
Romans 8:21
“Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.”
This aligns 21 with spiritual freedom.
11. Representation of Holiness
21 is connected to sanctification and holiness in biblical numerology.
1 Peter 1:16
“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
This reflects God’s call to holiness.
12. A Reminder of God’s Promises
God’s promises are often fulfilled after a set period of testing, symbolized by 21.
2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
This verse reflects God’s faithfulness in fulfilling promises.
13. Linked to Wisdom and Understanding
21 is connected to divine wisdom in scripture.
James 1:5
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
This verse shows God’s readiness to grant wisdom.
14. The Perfection of God’s Timing
21 represents the perfect timing of God in fulfilling His plans.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
This confirms God’s divine timing.
15. The Call to Spiritual Readiness
21 signifies the need for believers to be prepared.
1 Thessalonians 5:6
“Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”
This verse urges readiness, aligning with the meaning of 21.
Conclusion
The number 21 carries deep biblical significance, representing themes such as divine completion, spiritual growth, deliverance, and divine revelation. Through various scriptural references, we see how this number is tied to perseverance, wisdom, judgment, and redemption. Understanding these meanings can enrich one’s faith and biblical study. For those looking to explore further, studying the number’s occurrences in different biblical contexts can provide even deeper insights. Reflecting on how 21 appears in personal spiritual journeys may offer guidance and encouragement in faith.