This verse, Numbers 32:27, is part of a longer narrative about the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They requested permission from Moses to settle east of the Jordan River because they saw it was good land for their livestock. However, Moses was initially angry, fearing they would discourage the rest of the Israelites from entering the Promised Land. After a period of negotiation, they proposed this compromise.
Let's break down the verse and its meaning:
"but your servants will pass over..." This is a declaration by the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They are referring to themselves as servants of Moses and, ultimately, of God.
"...every man who is armed for war..." This highlights that only the fighting men, those capable of participating in battle, would be going. This demonstrates their commitment to assisting the other tribes.
"...before Yahweh to battle..." This phrase emphasizes the religious aspect of the war. "Before Yahweh" suggests they will be fighting under God's authority and with His blessing. It highlights the sacred nature of the campaign to conquer the Promised Land.
"...as my lord says." This is a clear demonstration of their submission to Moses's leadership. They are indicating they will follow his instructions in carrying out their agreement.
In essence, the verse signifies the following:
Commitment to helping their brethren: Reuben and Gad are assuring Moses that they will not shirk their responsibility to help conquer the Promised Land, despite their desire to settle east of the Jordan.
Military support: They will provide armed men to fight alongside the other tribes.
Subordination to God and Moses: Their participation is presented as obedience to God's will and Moses's leadership.
Trust in God's victory: The phrase "before Yahweh to battle" implies that they are confident in God's power to deliver victory.
This verse is a key point in the resolution of the conflict between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. It demonstrates their willingness to compromise and fulfill their duty to their fellow Israelites, thus allaying Moses's initial fears. It also emphasizes the importance of obedience, faith, and unity in achieving God's purpose.
This verse, Numbers 32:27, is part of a longer narrative about the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They requested permission from Moses to settle east of the Jordan River because they saw it was good land for their livestock. However, Moses was initially angry, fearing they would discourage the rest of the Israelites from entering the Promised Land. After a period of negotiation, they proposed this compromise.
Let's break down the verse and its meaning:
"but your servants will pass over..." This is a declaration by the tribes of Reuben and Gad. They are referring to themselves as servants of Moses and, ultimately, of God.
"...every man who is armed for war..." This highlights that only the fighting men, those capable of participating in battle, would be going. This demonstrates their commitment to assisting the other tribes.
"...before Yahweh to battle..." This phrase emphasizes the religious aspect of the war. "Before Yahweh" suggests they will be fighting under God's authority and with His blessing. It highlights the sacred nature of the campaign to conquer the Promised Land.
"...as my lord says." This is a clear demonstration of their submission to Moses's leadership. They are indicating they will follow his instructions in carrying out their agreement.
In essence, the verse signifies the following:
Commitment to helping their brethren: Reuben and Gad are assuring Moses that they will not shirk their responsibility to help conquer the Promised Land, despite their desire to settle east of the Jordan.
Military support: They will provide armed men to fight alongside the other tribes.
Subordination to God and Moses: Their participation is presented as obedience to God's will and Moses's leadership.
Trust in God's victory: The phrase "before Yahweh to battle" implies that they are confident in God's power to deliver victory.
This verse is a key point in the resolution of the conflict between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad. It demonstrates their willingness to compromise and fulfill their duty to their fellow Israelites, thus allaying Moses's initial fears. It also emphasizes the importance of obedience, faith, and unity in achieving God's purpose.