This verse from Numbers 32:24 is part of a larger negotiation between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They have requested to settle east of the Jordan River, a land suitable for their livestock. Moses initially suspects them of wanting to avoid fighting for the rest of Israel in conquering Canaan.
Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning:
"Build cities for your little ones...": This addresses the concern that their families would be vulnerable if the men went to war while the rest of Israel conquered Canaan. The instruction to build cities emphasizes the need to protect their families and ensure their safety. It's a promise of responsibility towards their dependents.
"...and folds for your sheep...": This acknowledges the reason they requested this land in the first place - its suitability for livestock. Building folds (enclosures) ensures the security and management of their flocks, reflecting their livelihood and wealth.
"...and do that which has proceeded out of your mouth.": This is the crucial part. It refers to the commitment and promise the tribes of Reuben and Gad made to help the rest of Israel conquer the land west of the Jordan River. They had verbally pledged to fight alongside their brethren until Canaan was secured. This clause is a reminder of their obligation to keep their word and uphold their promise. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and following through on commitments.
In summary, the verse is a conditional approval of their request. Moses allows them to settle east of the Jordan, provided they fulfill these conditions: protect their families and livestock (showing responsibility) and, most importantly, keep their promise to fight alongside the other tribes until Canaan is conquered (demonstrating loyalty and integrity). It's a reminder that their personal desires and needs should not overshadow their responsibilities to the larger community of Israel.
This verse from Numbers 32:24 is part of a larger negotiation between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They have requested to settle east of the Jordan River, a land suitable for their livestock. Moses initially suspects them of wanting to avoid fighting for the rest of Israel in conquering Canaan.
Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning:
"Build cities for your little ones...": This addresses the concern that their families would be vulnerable if the men went to war while the rest of Israel conquered Canaan. The instruction to build cities emphasizes the need to protect their families and ensure their safety. It's a promise of responsibility towards their dependents.
"...and folds for your sheep...": This acknowledges the reason they requested this land in the first place - its suitability for livestock. Building folds (enclosures) ensures the security and management of their flocks, reflecting their livelihood and wealth.
"...and do that which has proceeded out of your mouth.": This is the crucial part. It refers to the commitment and promise the tribes of Reuben and Gad made to help the rest of Israel conquer the land west of the Jordan River. They had verbally pledged to fight alongside their brethren until Canaan was secured. This clause is a reminder of their obligation to keep their word and uphold their promise. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and following through on commitments.
In summary, the verse is a conditional approval of their request. Moses allows them to settle east of the Jordan, provided they fulfill these conditions: protect their families and livestock (showing responsibility) and, most importantly, keep their promise to fight alongside the other tribes until Canaan is conquered (demonstrating loyalty and integrity). It's a reminder that their personal desires and needs should not overshadow their responsibilities to the larger community of Israel.