To “hoist by one’s own petard” literally means to be blown up by one’s own bomb. Petard is a French word for an explosive device. In the 15th century gunpowder was increasingly used to make bombs to blow open castle walls and doors. Often they would go off accidentally and blow up their maker or user. It became a figure of speech for self-harm by one’s attempt to hurt others.

As Israel was marching to the Promised Land they politely asked to cross the land of the Amorites. Once again, like at Edom, they were rejected and told “you shall not pass.” But before they could move to go around the Amorites attacked Israel. They were hoisted by their own petard because the attack failed and the Amorites were completely destroyed (Numbers 21:21-24).

This is a good illustration of what happened to the enemies of Jesus. The high priests and leaders (acting for their master – Satan) chose to kill Jesus to protect their position and power. Instead of defeating Jesus they actually fulfilled his plan to change the law and replace them with a new priesthood and spiritual nation (Hebrews 7:12). Satan’s power over death was broken as well (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). They were hoisted by their own petard.

Anyone who stands against God’s will is eventually hoisted by his own petard. Let’s quit fighting God and simply trust and obey.