1 Now the people of Reuben and the people of Gad had a very great number of livestock. And they saw the land of Jazer and the land of Gilead, and behold, the place was a place for livestock.
2 the sons of Gad and the sons of Reuben came and said to Moses, “The land that the Lord has struck down before the congregation of Israel, is a land for livestock, and your servants have livestock.”
3 Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon,
4 the land that the Lord struck down before the congregation of Israel, is a land for livestock, and your servants have livestock.”
5 And they said, “If we have found favor in your sight, let this land be given to your servants for a possession. Do not take us across the Jordan.”
6 But Moses said to the people of Gad and to the people of Reuben, “Shall your brothers go to the war while you sit here?
7 And why will you discourage the heart of the people of Israel from going over into the land that the Lord has given them?
8 Your fathers did this when I sent them from Kadesh-barnea to see the land.
9 For when they went up to the Valley of Eshcol and saw the land, they discouraged the heart of the people of Israel from going into the land that the Lord had given them.
10 And the Lord’s anger was kindled on that day, and he swore, saying,
11 ‘Surely none of the men who came up out of Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land that I swore to give to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, because they have not wholly followed me,
12 except Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua the son of Nun, for they have wholly followed the Lord.’
13 And the Lord’s anger was kindled against Israel, and he made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until all the generation that had done evil in the sight of the Lord was gone.
14 And behold, you have risen in your fathers’ place, a brood of sinful men, to increase still more the fierce anger of the Lord against Israel.
15 For if you turn away from following him, he will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people.”
16 Then they came near to him and said, “We will build sheepfolds here for our livestock, and cities for our little ones,
17 But we will take up arms, ready to go before the people of Israel, until we have brought them to their place. And our little ones shall live in the fortified cities because of the inhabitants of the land.
18 We will not return to our homes until each of the people of Israel has gained his inheritance.
19 For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan and beyond, because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan to the east.”
20 So Moses said to them, “If you will do this, if you will take up arms to go before the Lord for the war,
21 And every armed man of you will pass over the Jordan before the Lord, until he has driven out his enemies from before him,
22 And the land is subdued before the Lord; then after that you shall return and be free of obligation to the Lord and to Israel, and this land shall be your possession before the Lord.
23 But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the Lord, and be sure your sin will find you out.
24 Build cities for your little ones and folds for your sheep, and do what you have promised.”
25 And the people of Gad and the people of Reuben said to Moses, “Your servants will do as my lord commands.
26 Our little ones, our wives, our livestock, and all our cattle shall remain there in the cities of Gilead,
27 But your servants will pass over, every man who is armed for war, before the Lord to battle, as my lord orders.”
28 So Moses gave command concerning them to Eleazar the priest and to Joshua the son of Nun and to the heads of the fathers’ houses of the tribes of the people of Israel.
29 And Moses said to them, “If the people of Gad and the people of Reuben, every man who is armed to battle, will pass with you over the Jordan and the land shall be subdued before you, then you shall give them the land of Gilead for a possession.
30 But if they do not pass over with you armed, they shall have possessions among you in the land of Canaan.”
31 And the people of Gad and the people of Reuben answered, “What the Lord has said to your servants, we will do.
32 We will pass over armed before the Lord into the land of Canaan, and the possession of our inheritance shall remain with us on this side of the Jordan.”
33 So Moses gave to the people of Gad, to the people of Reuben, and to the half-tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land and its cities with their territories, the cities of the land throughout the country.
34 And the people of Gad built Dibon, Ataroth, Aroer,
35 And Atroth-shophan, Jazer, and Jogbehah,
36 and Beth-nimrah, and Beth-haran: fortified cities, and folds for sheep.
37 And the people of Reuben built Heshbon, Elealeh, Kiriathaim,
38 And Nebo, and Baal-meon (their names were changed), and Sibmah. And they gave other names to the cities that they built.
39 And the sons of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead and captured it, and dispossessed the Amorites who were in it.
40 And Moses gave Gilead to Machir the son of Manasseh, and he settled in it.
41 Jair the son of Manasseh went and captured their villages, and called them Havvoth-jair.
42 and Nobah, and the city of Kenath, and Colossae, and all their territories, with the people dwelling in the land of Amalek.
The True Meaning of Numbers 32
The Book of Numbers, the fourth book of the Pentateuch, was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. The tribes of Reuben and Gad request to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, rather than crossing over with the rest of the Israelites into the Promised Land.
This passage foreshadows the division that will occur among the tribes, as well as the ongoing challenges the Israelites will face in claiming the land that God has promised them. We see the importance of unity and obedience to God’s commands, as Moses must carefully navigate this request and ensure that it does not undermine the overall mission of the Israelites.
The events in this chapter also echo the themes of land ownership and inheritance that have been present throughout the Pentateuch, from the promises made to Abraham in Genesis to the detailed instructions for dividing the land in the book of Joshua. The issues of territory and possession will continue to be of paramount importance as the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land.
Numbers 32:1-5
The passage in Numbers 32:1-5 describes the tribes of Reuben and Gad approaching Moses with a request. These two tribes had large herds of livestock and noticed that the land of Jazer and Gilead were suitable for their animals. They saw that this land was good for grazing and believed it would be ideal for them to settle there rather than crossing the Jordan River with the rest of the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. The leaders of Reuben and Gad approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the other leaders of Israel to propose that they be given this land east of the Jordan as their inheritance.
This passage is significant as it demonstrates the importance of communication and decision-making within the community of God’s people. The tribes of Reuben and Gad did not make this decision on their own but instead sought the approval of their leaders and Moses. This shows respect for authority and unity within the community. It also highlights the need to consider the impact of individual choices on the entire community. The tribes of Reuben and Gad were concerned about the well-being of their livestock but also recognized the need to consult with and consider the implications for the broader Israelite community. Moses initially concerned that the tribes of Reuben and Gad were shirking their responsibility to help conquer the land of Canaan alongside their fellow Israelites. He feared that their reluctance to cross the Jordan to enter the Promised Land would discourage the other tribes and potentially lead to God’s anger falling upon the whole congregation. Moses reminded them of the consequences that Israel had faced in the past when the people had shied away from obeying God’s commands and following His plans.
This interaction between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s will. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where the faith and obedience of individuals or groups are tested. The Israelites, in particular, faced many challenges as they journeyed through the wilderness, and their reactions to these challenges often determined the outcomes of their situations. Moses’ concern for the unity and faithfulness of the Israelites reflects the overarching theme of remaining steadfast and committed to God’s plans, even in the face of obstacles or individual desires. The tribes of Reuben and Gad ultimately reassured Moses of their commitment to help the other tribes conquer the land of Canaan before settling in the land east of the Jordan. They pledged to lead the charge in battle alongside their brothers until all the Israelites had received their inheritance. This resolution highlights the importance of unity and cooperation within the community of believers. It emphasizes the idea that each member has a role to play in fulfilling God’s plans and that individual desires should not overshadow the collective goals of the community. Numbers 32:1-5 conveys timeless messages about communication, decision-making, faithfulness, obedience, unity, and cooperation within the community of God’s people. It underscores the significance of seeking counsel, considering the implications of individual choices on the community, and prioritizing God’s plans above personal desires. Moses’ interaction with the tribes of Reuben and Gad serves as a valuable lesson in leadership, faith, and the responsibilities that come with being part of a community dedicated to following God’s will.
Numbers 32:6-15
The leaders of the tribes of Gad and Reuben come to Moses with a request in Numbers 32:6-15. They express their desire to settle in the land on the east side of the Jordan River, which had already been conquered by the Israelites. They explain that this land was suitable for their livestock, and they ask for permission to inherit it before crossing the Jordan to help the rest of the tribes conquer the land of Canaan.
This section highlights an important aspect of the Israelites’ journey towards the Promised Land – the issue of commitment and unity among the tribes. The leaders of Gad and Reuben are seeking to prioritize their own needs and comforts over the collective mission of taking possession of Canaan as a whole. This could be seen as a lack of faith in God’s promise and a willingness to settle for less than what God had intended for them.
Moses’ response to their request is stern and emphasizes the potential consequences of their actions. He warns them that if they abandon their brothers in the upcoming battles, they will not only be failing in their commitment to the community but will also bring sin upon themselves. This interaction serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, faith, and obedience among God’s people. The leaders of Gad and Reuben ultimately reaffirm their commitment to join the other tribes in the conquest of Canaan after establishing their settlements on the east side of the Jordan. This decision highlights the importance of solidarity and obedience in fulfilling God’s plans. It also serves as a lesson for us today, reminding us of the significance of staying united in faith and purpose as we navigate through life’s challenges.
This incident also echoes the earlier events in the Bible where division and selfishness among the people led to negative consequences. For example, the story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 demonstrates how God disrupted the people’s efforts to build a tower to heaven because of their pride and desire for self-glory. Conversely, in Acts 2, after the disciples were united in prayer and purpose following Jesus’ ascension, the Holy Spirit descended upon them, empowering them to spread the Gospel effectively. Numbers 32:6-15 serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, faith, and commitment among God’s people. We can avoid the pitfalls of division and selfishness and experience the blessings of obedience and solidarity by staying true to God’s plans and supporting one another in fulfilling His purposes.
Numbers 32:16-19
Moses had a conversation with the tribes of Reuben and Gad in Numbers 32:16-19 after they expressed their desire to settle in the land east of the Jordan River rather than crossing over with the other tribes to settle in the Promised Land. This section is significant as it delves into the importance of dedication, commitment, and unity within the community of believers.
The tribes of Reuben and Gad approached Moses with a proposal to settle in the land of Gilead, which they found suitable for their livestock. This proposition initially raised concerns about their commitment to the mission of possessing and conquering the Promised Land, as it seemed they were choosing convenience and comfort over fulfilling God’s promise. It is crucial to note that Moses’ reaction reflects the importance of unity and shared vision among the people of God. He warns the tribes that if they choose not to enter the Promised Land alongside their brothers, it would not only discourage the rest of the Israelites but also incur God’s wrath upon the entire community.
This episode showcases the significance of collective responsibility and the impact of individual choices on the community as a whole. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, though seeking their own benefit, were reminded of the need to prioritize the greater good and the unity of the entire nation of Israel. This mirrors the Christian principle emphasized in the New Testament, such as in Romans 12:5, where believers are described as one body in Christ, each with different functions but working together for the common purpose of glorifying God. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-centeredness and the consequences of prioritizing personal interests over the communal goals set by God. It underscores the importance of sacrificial love, obedience, and faithfulness in carrying out God’s divine plan, even when faced with personal desires or challenges. The tribes of Reuben and Gad eventually pledge their commitment to help their fellow Israelites secure the Promised Land before settling in their own inheritance, highlighting the significance of humility, faith, and cooperation in achieving God’s purposes as a unified body.
Numbers 32:20-24
Numbers 32:20-24 states, “Then Moses said to them: ‘If you do this—if you arm yourselves before the Lord for battle and if all of you are ready to cross over the Jordan before the Lord until he has driven his enemies out before him—then when the land is subdued before the Lord, you may return and be free from your obligation to the Lord and to Israel. And this land will be your possession before the Lord. But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the Lord; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out. Build cities for your women and children, and pens for your flocks, but do what you have promised. Moses is addressing the Reubenites and Gadites who desired to settle on the east side of the Jordan River instead of entering the Promised Land with the rest of the Israelites in this section. Moses lays out a condition for them to settle in the land they have requested: they must first join the other tribes in conquering the land of Canaan. This condition highlights the importance of unity and collective responsibility among the Israelites. It underscores the principle that each member of the community has a role to play in fulfilling God’s promises and purposes. Moses ensures that the Reubenites and Gadites are not neglecting their duties to God and the community by requiring them to participate in the conquest of Canaan before settling in their desired land. Moses moreover warns them about the consequences of failing to fulfill their commitment. He emphasizes that if they do not keep their word, they will be sinning against the Lord, and ultimately their sin will catch up with them. This serves as a timeless lesson about the importance of integrity, keeping promises, and the inevitability of facing the consequences of our actions. Individuals and nations in the biblical context face numerous examples of repercussions for their disobedience or unfaithfulness to God. One such example is the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for forty years due to their lack of faith and disobedience (Numbers 14:26-35).
Additionally, Moses instructs the Reubenites and Gadites to make provisions for their families and livestock while they are away at war. This practical advice reflects the concern for the well-being of their loved ones and possessions. It also demonstrates the importance of planning and responsibility in all aspects of life while fulfilling obligations. This passage reminds us of the biblical principle of caring for our families and making wise decisions that consider their needs, as emphasized in verses like 1 Timothy 5:8, which states, “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. Numbers 32:20-24 highlights the themes of commitment, accountability, consequences of actions, and proper planning. It underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands, honesty in our dealings with others, and the understanding that our choices have repercussions that we must face. This passage challenges us to assess our own commitments, integrity, and responsibilities in light of our faith and relationship with God and others.
Numbers 32:25-27
Numbers 32:25-27 states, “The Gadites and Reubenites said to Moses, ‘We, your servants, will do as our lord commands. Our children and wives, our flocks and herds will remain here in the towns of Gilead. But your servants, every man who is armed for battle, will cross over to fight before the Lord, just as our lord says. The Gadites and Reubenites make a commitment to Moses in this passage to fulfill their duty in the conquest of the Promised Land. They acknowledge Moses as their leader and are willing to obey his commands. The decision to leave their families and possessions in Gilead while they cross over to fight demonstrates their dedication to the mission at hand.
This passage highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness in carrying out God’s plans. The Gadites and Reubenites willingly put their personal interests aside for the greater good of the community and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Their willingness to fight before the Lord serves as a reminder to all believers of the need to be ready and prepared for spiritual battles in the journey of faith.
The commitment of the Gadites and Reubenites to follow Moses’s instructions also showcases the importance of leadership and the role of leaders in guiding their followers towards God’s purpose. Throughout the Bible, we see the significance of godly leadership in shaping the destiny of nations and individuals. Leaders today are called to lead with wisdom, humility, and adherence to God’s commands, just as Moses led the Israelites towards the Promised Land.
This passage can be reflected in the teachings of Jesus, where He emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the need to prioritize following Him above all else. Jesus says in Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”” The commitment and sacrifice displayed by the Gadites and Reubenites can serve as a model for Christians today in their journey of faith and obedience to God’s will.
Numbers 32:28-30
Numbers 32:28-30 reads, “So Moses gave orders about them to Eleazar the priest, to Joshua son of Nun, and to the heads of the families of the Israelite tribes. He said, ‘If the Gadites and Reubenites, every man armed for battle, cross over the Jordan with you before the Lord, then when the land is subdued before you, you must give them the land of Gilead as their possession. But if they do not cross over with you armed, they must accept land in Canaan. Moses gives specific instructions to Eleazar the priest, to Joshua, and to the leaders of the tribes of Israel regarding the agreement made with the Gadites and Reubenites in this section. This passage highlights the importance of honoring commitments and following through on promises made. It also emphasizes the significance of unity and cooperation within the community of believers. Moses was ensuring that the Gadites and Reubenites fulfilled their obligations to their fellow Israelites by assisting in the conquest of Canaan before settling in their own allotted land across the Jordan River. This act was not just about military assistance but also about demonstrating loyalty and solidarity with their brothers in fulfilling God’s promise to the Israelites to inherit the Promised Land.
This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork and the shared responsibility that comes with being part of a community. It underscores the principle that God’s people are called to work together, support one another, and fulfill their commitments to each other, just as the members of the body of Christ are called to support and encourage one another in faith and good works. This is echoed in the New Testament in verses like Galatians 6:2, which says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Christians are called to live in unity and harmony with one another, bearing one another’s burdens and working together for the advancement of God’s kingdom, just as the Gadites and Reubenites were called to fulfill their duty to their fellow Israelites.
Numbers 32:31-32
They said, “If we have found favor in your eyes, let this land be given to your servants as our possession.” Do not make us cross the Jordan.” Moses said to the Gadites and Reubenites, “Shall your countrymen go to war while you stay here? The tribes of Gad and Reuben are speaking to Moses in these verses and making a request regarding the land they are currently in. They express a desire to settle and possess the land on the eastern side of the Jordan River, rather than crossing over into the Promised Land with the rest of the Israelites. Their request is that this land be given to them as their possession.
Moses’ response to their request is crucial as he questions their reluctance to cross the Jordan and participate in the conquest of the Promised Land. Moses highlights the importance of unity and solidarity among the Israelites, emphasizing that it would not be fair for the other tribes to engage in battle while the Gadites and Reubenites remained behind in safety.
This exchange between Moses and the tribes of Gad and Reuben serves as a lesson on the significance of commitment and loyalty within the community of believers. The Promised Land symbolizes the blessings and rewards that come from following God wholeheartedly, and their hesitation to enter it represents a lack of faith and courage. Christians are called to journey together in faith, supporting and encouraging one another in times of struggle and triumph, just as the Israelites were meant to conquer the land together.
This passage also reminds us of the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. At this point in the Israelites’ journey, they had faced many challenges and consequences for their disobedience to God. Moses’ questioning of the tribes of Gad and Reuben serves as a reminder that God’s plans often require us to step out in faith and trust Him completely, even when the task seems daunting or difficult.
Furthermore, this incident with the tribes of Gad and Reuben ties back to previous events in the Bible, such as the Israelites’ rebellion and lack of faith when they initially refused to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 13-14). The consequences of their doubt led to forty years of wandering in the wilderness. The hesitation of the Gadites and Reubenites to cross the Jordan carries echoes of this lack of faith, reinforcing the idea that faith and obedience are necessary components of God’s plan for His people. Numbers 32:31-32 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, unity, and obedience in our walk with God. It challenges us to consider the implications of our choices on both our own spiritual journey and the community of believers around us. We are called to reflect on whether we are fully committed to following God’s will and supporting our brothers and sisters in Christ on their journey of faith, just as Moses questioned the tribes of Gad and Reuben.
Numbers 32:33-38
Moses had a conversation with the tribes of Reuben and Gad regarding their request to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, rather than crossing over with the rest of the Israelites to the Promised Land in Numbers 32:33-38. This section outlines the terms and conditions that Moses lays out for the tribes of Reuben and Gad. Moses allows them to settle in the land they desire but under the condition that they send their fighting men to aid the other tribes in conquering the land of Canaan.
Moses’ stipulation for the men of Reuben and Gad to fight alongside their fellow Israelites reflects the theme of unity and cooperation that is prevalent throughout the Bible. It emphasizes the importance of communal effort and teamwork in achieving God’s purposes. This requirement also serves as a reminder that while God had granted the Israelites the Promised Land, they still needed to actively participate in claiming it. It teaches us that faith without action is not enough; we must also be willing to put in the necessary work and effort to see God’s promises fulfilled.
The response of the tribes of Reuben and Gad to Moses’ conditions showcases their willingness to fulfill their part of the agreement. They agree to Moses’ terms, promising to cross over the Jordan armed for battle before God. This highlights the importance of keeping one’s promises and honoring commitments, even in the face of challenges or inconvenience. It serves as a lesson in integrity and faithfulness, showing that the Israelites understood the gravity of their agreement with Moses and were willing to uphold their end of the bargain.
This passage also speaks to the concept of accountability within the community of believers. Moses is ensuring that all members of the community are actively involved in the work of God and are bearing one another’s burdens by holding the tribes of Reuben and Gad accountable for their commitment to assist in the conquest of Canaan. This idea of mutual accountability and support is echoed throughout the Bible, emphasizing the interconnectedness of believers and the importance of standing together in faith. This interaction between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad serves as a reminder of the challenges and tests that the Israelites faced along the way in the larger context of their journey to the Promised Land. It highlights the need for obedience, faithfulness, and unity among God’s people in order to overcome obstacles and claim the blessings that God has in store for them. This narrative ultimately points to the overarching theme of God’s faithfulness and the importance of following His guidance and instructions in order to receive His promises.
Numbers 32:39-42
The children of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead, took it, and dispossessed the Amorite which was in it, as the Scripture reads in Numbers 32:39-42. And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein. And Jair the son of Manasseh went and took the small towns thereof, and called them Havothjair. And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.”
This passage records an account of the tribes of Manasseh claiming territory on the eastern side of the Jordan River. The children of Machir, a son of Manasseh, were successful in conquering the land of Gilead, driving out the Amorites who previously inhabited it. The connection to the Amorites is significant because they were often depicted as enemies of God’s people, symbolizing sin and hostility. The Manassites were reclaiming the land that God had promised to the Israelites by defeating them.
Moses, as the leader appointed by God, played a crucial role in overseeing the distribution of the conquered land. He granted Gilead to Machir, demonstrating how the authority given to Moses by God was respected and followed by the tribes of Israel. Moses holds a position of great importance in the biblical narrative as the mediator between God and the people, guiding them through their journey in the wilderness and imparting divine wisdom and laws to them.
Jair, another son of Manasseh, proceeded to take possession of the smaller towns in the region and renamed them “Havothjair,” signifying his authority over these territories. This act of renaming the towns after oneself was a common practice in biblical times to assert ownership and establish a legacy. Jair’s actions reflect his initiative and leadership in securing the land allotted to his tribe. Nobah, a member of the tribe of Manasseh, captured Kenath and its surrounding villages, renaming the area after himself. He effectively stamped his identity and influence on the territory he had acquired by naming the land “Nobah.” This act underscores the significance of personal legacy and the desire to leave a lasting impact on history. It also highlights the individual contributions within the larger context of the tribe’s collective efforts in claiming their inheritance.
This episode in Numbers 32 serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God’s commands, unity among the tribes of Israel, and the fulfillment of divine promises. It illustrates the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His covenant with the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The actions of Machir, Jair, and Nobah showcase the roles of initiative, leadership, and stewardship in securing the blessings and territories bestowed by God. The passage not only narrates a historical event but also conveys timeless lessons on faith, perseverance, and the rewards of following God’s will.
After Numbers 32
The Israelites had now reached the plains of Moab, on the east side of the Jordan River, across from Jericho. Reuben and Gad, two of the tribes, approached Moses with a request as they prepared to cross over and conquer the land of Canaan. They had seen the fertile lands east of the Jordan and desired to settle there instead of crossing over. This request would have far-reaching consequences, not only for the tribes themselves, but for the entire nation of Israel. The reverend must now address this matter, for the decision made here would shape the future of God’s chosen people.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.