Exploring the Meaning of Numbers 31:2

Numbers 31:2 states: "Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites: afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people." This verse is pivotal in understanding God's judgment and the holiness required of His people.

Contextual Overview

In the context of the Book of Numbers, this command was given to Moses, reflecting both divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. It serves as a significant moment in Israel's history, marking a transition into the land that was promised to them.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes that this command highlights God's holiness and justice. The Midianites had led the Israelites into sin, and thus their punishment is justified. The urgency of the command shows the necessity of God's people to be zealous for His honor, which often means taking difficult actions against sin.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes points out that the Midianites were responsible for leading Israel astray, primarily through Baal worship and moral corruption. This vengeance is not merely for personal recompense but is framed as a divine directive to eradicate evil influences from among God's people.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke remarks on the divine aspect of this judgment, suggesting that the Israelites were oblivious to the full implications of Midian's influence. Clarke notes that the gathering unto one's people indicates the inevitability of death and the transition to the afterlife, underscoring the seriousness of God's commands.

Cross References

To better understand Numbers 31:2, consider the following cross-references:

• Exodus 17:14 - "And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven."
• Deuteronomy 20:16-17 - "But of the cities of these people, which the LORD thy God doth give thee for an inheritance, thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth..."
• Psalm 137:9 - "Happy shall he be, that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones."
• Revelation 16:6 - "For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy."
• Revelation 19:2 - "For true and righteous are his judgments; for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication..."
• Jeremiah 46:28 - "Fear thou not, O Jacob my servant, saith the LORD: for I am with thee; for I will make a full end of all the nations whither I have driven thee..."
• Matthew 5:38-39 - "Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil..."

Thematic Connections

Numbers 31:2 can be seen as part of a broader biblical narrative relating to divine justice and the need for purification within Israel. The themes of vengeance, holiness, and God’s sovereignty can be traced through multiple scriptures, illustrating a consistent biblical message about God’s character and human responsibility in maintaining spiritual purity.

Tools for Cross-Referencing

• Utilizing a Bible concordance can help identify verses closely related to Numbers 31:2.
• Employing a Bible cross-reference guide provides a structured approach to understanding interconnections in scripture.
• A cross-reference Bible study enhances comprehension by linking thematic elements across both Testaments.

Conclusion

Understanding Numbers 31:2 requires an appreciation for the historical and theological nuances of the passage. By employing tools for Bible cross-referencing and recognizing Bible verse parallels, believers can gain deeper insights into God's purposes and the nature of His covenant with Israel.