Numbers 32:19 - For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward; because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward.”
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What does "Numbers 32:19" mean?
This verse, Numbers 32:19, is part of a negotiation between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. To understand it, we need to look at the context of the entire chapter. Here's a breakdown:
Context:
The Conquered Lands: The Israelites had just conquered lands east of the Jordan River, specifically the fertile areas of Gilead and Jazer.
Reuben and Gad's Request: The tribes of Reuben and Gad, seeing that these lands were particularly good for livestock, requested to settle there instead of crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land (Canaan). They had "a very great multitude of cattle."
Moses' Concern: Moses was initially angry. He feared their request would discourage the rest of the Israelites and lead to a repeat of the past when fear had caused them to refuse to enter the Promised Land, resulting in forty years of wandering.
Reuben and Gad's Proposal: To alleviate Moses' concerns, Reuben and Gad proposed a compromise: they would build sheepfolds for their livestock and cities for their families east of the Jordan, but they would also arm themselves and fight alongside the rest of the Israelites to conquer the Promised Land west of the Jordan. They promised to not return home until the rest of Israel had received their inheritance.
Meaning of Numbers 32:19:
This verse, "For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward; because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward," is the heart of their compromise and demonstrates their commitment to their brethren. Here's what it means:
"We will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward...": This means that Reuben and Gad are not seeking any land inheritance in the Promised Land west of the Jordan River. They are not interested in owning property in Canaan. They understand that the inheritance west of the Jordan is meant for the other tribes.
"...because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward.": They are content with the land they have already been given east of the Jordan. They recognize this land (Gilead and Jazer) as their designated inheritance and are satisfied with it. They are not trying to get the best of both worlds.
In essence, this verse is a declaration of their commitment and sacrifice. They are saying:
> "We are not trying to cheat the system and get land both east and west of the Jordan. We are happy with what we have been given here on this side, but we will fight alongside you to secure the Promised Land for the rest of Israel."
The significance of this verse lies in its emphasis on:
Commitment to the Community: Reuben and Gad are prioritizing the needs of the whole Israelite community over their own individual gain.
Sacrifice: They are willing to leave their families and new homes to fight for the inheritance of others.
Integrity: They are being honest and transparent about their intentions, assuring Moses that they are not seeking to undermine the conquest of Canaan.
This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, selflessness, and commitment to the greater good within a community. While they sought a different arrangement based on their specific needs, they were willing to prioritize the success and well-being of the entire nation of Israel.
Numbers 32:19 - For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward; because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward.”
What does "Numbers 32:19" mean?
This verse, Numbers 32:19, is part of a negotiation between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. To understand it, we need to look at the context of the entire chapter. Here's a breakdown:
Context:
The Conquered Lands: The Israelites had just conquered lands east of the Jordan River, specifically the fertile areas of Gilead and Jazer.
Reuben and Gad's Request: The tribes of Reuben and Gad, seeing that these lands were particularly good for livestock, requested to settle there instead of crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land (Canaan). They had "a very great multitude of cattle."
Moses' Concern: Moses was initially angry. He feared their request would discourage the rest of the Israelites and lead to a repeat of the past when fear had caused them to refuse to enter the Promised Land, resulting in forty years of wandering.
Reuben and Gad's Proposal: To alleviate Moses' concerns, Reuben and Gad proposed a compromise: they would build sheepfolds for their livestock and cities for their families east of the Jordan, but they would also arm themselves and fight alongside the rest of the Israelites to conquer the Promised Land west of the Jordan. They promised to not return home until the rest of Israel had received their inheritance.
Meaning of Numbers 32:19:
This verse, "For we will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward; because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward," is the heart of their compromise and demonstrates their commitment to their brethren. Here's what it means:
"We will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, and forward...": This means that Reuben and Gad are not seeking any land inheritance in the Promised Land west of the Jordan River. They are not interested in owning property in Canaan. They understand that the inheritance west of the Jordan is meant for the other tribes.
"...because our inheritance has come to us on this side of the Jordan eastward.": They are content with the land they have already been given east of the Jordan. They recognize this land (Gilead and Jazer) as their designated inheritance and are satisfied with it. They are not trying to get the best of both worlds.
In essence, this verse is a declaration of their commitment and sacrifice. They are saying:
> "We are not trying to cheat the system and get land both east and west of the Jordan. We are happy with what we have been given here on this side, but we will fight alongside you to secure the Promised Land for the rest of Israel."
The significance of this verse lies in its emphasis on:
Commitment to the Community: Reuben and Gad are prioritizing the needs of the whole Israelite community over their own individual gain.
Sacrifice: They are willing to leave their families and new homes to fight for the inheritance of others.
Integrity: They are being honest and transparent about their intentions, assuring Moses that they are not seeking to undermine the conquest of Canaan.
This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, selflessness, and commitment to the greater good within a community. While they sought a different arrangement based on their specific needs, they were willing to prioritize the success and well-being of the entire nation of Israel.