This verse, Numbers 20:17, is part of a plea from the Israelites to the King of Edom, requesting permission to peacefully travel through his land. Here's a breakdown of what the verse means:
"Please let us pass through your land." This is a direct and respectful request. The Israelites are acknowledging Edom's sovereignty and asking for permission, not demanding it.
"We will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink from the water of the wells." This is a key promise and a demonstration of respect for Edom's property.
"Field or vineyard" represents cultivated, private land. The Israelites are committing to avoid trespassing on farmland and damaging crops.
"Neither will we drink from the water of the wells" shows that the Israelites would not take any resources that belonged to the Edomites, including water, which was a precious commodity in the desert environment.
"We will go along the king's highway." This indicates that they would stick to the main road, the established route through the land, minimizing their impact and preventing them from wandering off and causing accidental damage or disturbance.
"We will not turn away to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your border." This reinforces their commitment to staying on the specified route and not deviating from it. They would follow the highway directly through Edomite territory, without exploring or lingering.
In essence, this verse is a well-crafted diplomatic request:
It acknowledges Edom's authority.
It assures Edom that the Israelites pose no threat.
It promises to respect Edom's property and resources.
It emphasizes that the passage would be quick and unobtrusive.
The Israelites are trying to convince the King of Edom that granting them passage is safe and beneficial to Edom, as it would allow the large Israelite group to pass through without damaging the land or consuming its resources. It is a carefully worded plea for peaceful transit.
This verse, Numbers 20:17, is part of a plea from the Israelites to the King of Edom, requesting permission to peacefully travel through his land. Here's a breakdown of what the verse means:
"Please let us pass through your land." This is a direct and respectful request. The Israelites are acknowledging Edom's sovereignty and asking for permission, not demanding it.
"We will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink from the water of the wells." This is a key promise and a demonstration of respect for Edom's property.
"Field or vineyard" represents cultivated, private land. The Israelites are committing to avoid trespassing on farmland and damaging crops.
"Neither will we drink from the water of the wells" shows that the Israelites would not take any resources that belonged to the Edomites, including water, which was a precious commodity in the desert environment.
"We will go along the king's highway." This indicates that they would stick to the main road, the established route through the land, minimizing their impact and preventing them from wandering off and causing accidental damage or disturbance.
"We will not turn away to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your border." This reinforces their commitment to staying on the specified route and not deviating from it. They would follow the highway directly through Edomite territory, without exploring or lingering.
In essence, this verse is a well-crafted diplomatic request:
It acknowledges Edom's authority.
It assures Edom that the Israelites pose no threat.
It promises to respect Edom's property and resources.
It emphasizes that the passage would be quick and unobtrusive.
The Israelites are trying to convince the King of Edom that granting them passage is safe and beneficial to Edom, as it would allow the large Israelite group to pass through without damaging the land or consuming its resources. It is a carefully worded plea for peaceful transit.