Numbers 31:17 - Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him.
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What does "Numbers 31:17" mean?
Numbers 31:17 is part of a larger narrative about the Israelites' battle against the Midianites. God commanded the Israelites to wage war against the Midianites as punishment for leading them astray into idolatry. After the battle, Moses was angry that the Israelite soldiers had spared the women and children. He then gave the command in verse 17.
There are different interpretations of this verse:
Literal interpretation: Some believe this verse should be taken literally as a divine command from God to kill all male children and non-virgin women.
Historical context: Others argue that this verse needs to be understood within its historical and cultural context. In ancient warfare, it was common practice to kill or enslave the enemy population. The command in Numbers 31:17 may have been seen as a way to prevent the Midianites from rising up again and leading the Israelites astray.
Moral implications: Many people find this verse morally problematic, as it seems to condone violence against innocent people. Some theologians and scholars argue that this verse does not reflect the true nature of God, who is loving and merciful. They suggest that it may be an example of how violence and retribution were justified in ancient times.
The interpretation of this verse is a complex and controversial issue. There is no single, definitive answer.
Numbers 31:17 - Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him.
What does "Numbers 31:17" mean?
Numbers 31:17 is part of a larger narrative about the Israelites' battle against the Midianites. God commanded the Israelites to wage war against the Midianites as punishment for leading them astray into idolatry. After the battle, Moses was angry that the Israelite soldiers had spared the women and children. He then gave the command in verse 17.
There are different interpretations of this verse:
Literal interpretation: Some believe this verse should be taken literally as a divine command from God to kill all male children and non-virgin women.
Historical context: Others argue that this verse needs to be understood within its historical and cultural context. In ancient warfare, it was common practice to kill or enslave the enemy population. The command in Numbers 31:17 may have been seen as a way to prevent the Midianites from rising up again and leading the Israelites astray.
Moral implications: Many people find this verse morally problematic, as it seems to condone violence against innocent people. Some theologians and scholars argue that this verse does not reflect the true nature of God, who is loving and merciful. They suggest that it may be an example of how violence and retribution were justified in ancient times.
The interpretation of this verse is a complex and controversial issue. There is no single, definitive answer.