About Numbers

Numbers records Israel's forty years of wandering in the wilderness due to unbelief, yet shows God's faithfulness in preserving the nation.

Author: MosesWritten: c. 1445-1405 BCReading time: ~4 minVerses: 33
FaithfulnessRebellionWanderingGod's PatienceJudgmentPromise

King James Version

Numbers 13

33 verses with commentary

The Twelve Spies

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

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KJV Study Commentary

God commands Moses to send spies to investigate Canaan, the land He promised to give Israel. This reconnaissance mission tested Israel's faith—would they trust God's promise or believe the obstacles? The phrase 'which I give unto the children of Israel' uses present tense, indicating the certainty of God's gift despite Israel not yet possessing it. Faith views promised blessings as already secured...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

XIII. (1) **And the Lord spake unto Moses . . . —**There is no inconsistency between this statement and that which is contained in Deuteronomy 1:22, where the sending of the spies is represented as having originated with the people. It is there said that the saying pleased Moses well; but it would be wholly inconsistent with the character and conduct of Moses to suppose that in a matter of such im...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Nu 8:5-22. The Consecration of the Levites. **6-7. Take the Levites ... and cleanse them--**This passage describes the consecration of the Levites. Although the tribe was to be devoted to the divine service, their hereditary descent alone was not a sufficient qualification for entering on the duties of the sacred office. They were to be set apart by a special ceremony, which, however, was much si...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Send thou men, that they may search the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel: of every tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a ruler among them.

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KJV Study Commentary

God commands Moses to send spies into Canaan, saying 'which I give unto the children of Israel,' using the present tense to indicate the certainty of His promise despite Canaanite occupation. The scouting mission's purpose was reconnaissance—learning the land's character, the people's strength, and the cities' fortifications—not determining whether conquest was possible. God had already promised t...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(2) **Every one a ruler among them.—**Or, *a prince among them, *as in Numbers 1:16. A comparison of the names which follow with those which are given in Numbers 1:5-15 will show that the persons selected were not the tribal princes who are mentioned in connection with the census. The tribe of Levi, as in the former case, is not represented, as the Levites were to have no inheritance in the land, ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Nu 8:5-22. The Consecration of the Levites. **6-7. Take the Levites ... and cleanse them--**This passage describes the consecration of the Levites. Although the tribe was to be devoted to the divine service, their hereditary descent alone was not a sufficient qualification for entering on the duties of the sacred office. They were to be set apart by a special ceremony, which, however, was much si...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And Moses by the commandment of the LORD sent them from the wilderness of Paran: all those men were heads of the children of Israel.

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KJV Study Commentary

Moses 'sent them from the wilderness of Paran: all those men were heads of the children of Israel.' The phrase 'heads' (rashim) indicates these were tribal leaders, not random scouts - men of authority and influence. Their unanimous bad report (except Caleb and Joshua) proved devastating because of their leadership status. This teaches that leadership position doesn't guarantee spiritual discernme...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **And Moses, by the commandment of the Lord, sent them, &c.—**Better, *And Moses sent them, from the wilderness of Paran, according to the command *(literally, the mouth) *of the Lord, i.e., *as appears from Deuteronomy 1:19. from Kadesh-barnea.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And these were their names: of the tribe of Reuben, Shammua the son of Zaccur.

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KJV Study Commentary

Reuben's representative was 'Shammua the son of Zaccur.' Though Reuben was Israel's firstborn (Gen 29:32), his tribe had lost preeminence due to Jacob's prophetic curse for defiling his father's bed (Gen 35:22, 49:3-4). The name 'Shammua' means 'heard' or 'renowned,' yet despite his name, his voice joined the majority's fearful report. This illustrates that heritage, position, or even promising na...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**9-10. thou shalt gather the whole assembly of the children of Israel together, &c.--**As it was plainly impossible that the whole multitude of the Israelites could do this, a select portion of them must be meant. This party, who laid their hands upon the Levites, are supposed by some to have been the first-born, who by that act, transferred their peculiar privilege of acting as God's ministe...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat the son of Hori.

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KJV Study Commentary

Shaphat son of Hori represented the tribe of Simeon among the twelve spies. The inclusion of all twelve tribes demonstrated that the entire nation participated in this reconnaissance, making the subsequent rebellion (verses 26-33) truly national in scope. God's fairness in allowing equal tribal representation would leave Israel without excuse for their unbelief.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**9-10. thou shalt gather the whole assembly of the children of Israel together, &c.--**As it was plainly impossible that the whole multitude of the Israelites could do this, a select portion of them must be meant. This party, who laid their hands upon the Levites, are supposed by some to have been the first-born, who by that act, transferred their peculiar privilege of acting as God's ministe...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.

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KJV Study Commentary

Among the spies sent was 'Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.' Caleb's tribal affiliation with Judah is significant - Judah led Israel's march (Num 2:9, 10:14) and would produce the Messianic line. Caleb's faith distinguished him as worthy of Judah's leadership role. Interestingly, he's called a Kenizzite elsewhere (Num 32:12, Josh 14:6, 14), suggesting Gentile ancestry integrated i...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **Caleb the son of Jephunneh.—**In three places—viz., in Numbers 32:12; and in Joshua 14:6; Joshua 14:14—Caleb is described as the Kenezite (or rather, the Kenizzite). Now in Genesis 15:19 the Kenizzites are mentioned as one of the Canaanite tribes, and in Genesis 36:11; Genesis 36:15, Kenaz occurs as an Edomite name. It has been conjectured from these facts, but, as it should seem, on insuffi...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11-13. And Aaron shall offer the Levites--**Hebrew, "as a wave offering"; and it has been thought probable that the high priest, in bringing the Levites one by one to the altar, directed them to make some simple movements of their persons, analogous to what was done at the presentation of the wave offerings before the Lord. Thus were they first devoted as an offering to God, and by Him surrender...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Issachar, Igal the son of Joseph.

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KJV Study Commentary

From Issachar came 'Igal the son of Joseph.' Issachar's tribal blessing described them as 'a strong ass... he saw that rest was good... and bowed his shoulder to bear' (Gen 49:14-15) - suggesting strength and willingness to work but also potential compromise (bowing to servitude). Igal's name means 'he redeems,' yet his participation in the majority report showed he needed redemption himself. This...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11-13. And Aaron shall offer the Levites--**Hebrew, "as a wave offering"; and it has been thought probable that the high priest, in bringing the Levites one by one to the altar, directed them to make some simple movements of their persons, analogous to what was done at the presentation of the wave offerings before the Lord. Thus were they first devoted as an offering to God, and by Him surrender...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Ephraim, Oshea the son of Nun.

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KJV Study Commentary

Ephraim's spy was 'Oshea the son of Nun' - later called Joshua. The name 'Oshea' (Hoshea) means 'salvation,' which Moses changed to 'Joshua' (Yehoshua), meaning 'Yahweh is salvation' (v.16). This name change foreshadowed Jesus (Greek form of Joshua), the ultimate Savior. Joshua, with Caleb, stood alone against majority unbelief, demonstrating that salvation requires faith despite opposition. His l...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(8) **Of the tribe of Ephraim.—**It has been supposed that there is some displacement of the text in this verse. Thus far the order of the tribes is the same as in Numbers 1:5-8. After Issachar, Zebulun (the sixth son of Leah) would naturally follow, as in Numbers 1:9, and Ephraim and Manasseh would naturally be connected, as in Numbers 1:10. This supposition is supported by the occurrence of the ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**11-13. And Aaron shall offer the Levites--**Hebrew, "as a wave offering"; and it has been thought probable that the high priest, in bringing the Levites one by one to the altar, directed them to make some simple movements of their persons, analogous to what was done at the presentation of the wave offerings before the Lord. Thus were they first devoted as an offering to God, and by Him surrender...
Read full commentary →

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Benjamin, Palti the son of Raphu.

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KJV Study Commentary

Benjamin's spy was 'Palti the son of Raphu.' The name 'Palti' means 'my deliverance,' yet he needed deliverance from his own unbelief before dying in wilderness. Benjamin's later prominence (King Saul, Apostle Paul) didn't extend to this representative. His tribe was described as 'ravin as a wolf' (Gen 49:27) - fierce and successful in battle. Yet Palti saw Canaanite opposition and concluded defea...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**14. and the Levites shall be mine--**that is, exempt from all military duty or secular work--free from all pecuniary imposition and wholly devoted to the custody and service of the sanctuary.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi.

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KJV Study Commentary

Zebulun's spy was 'Gaddiel the son of Sodi.' The name 'Gaddiel' means 'God is my fortune/troop,' declaring dependence on divine provision. Yet his joining the majority's fearful report contradicted his name's meaning - he trusted circumstances over God. Zebulun's blessing prophesied they'd 'dwell at the haven of the sea... and his border shall be unto Zidon' (Gen 49:13), promising maritime prosper...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**15. after that, shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation--**into the court, to assist the priests; and at removal into the tabernacle--that is, into the door of it--to receive the covered furniture.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Joseph, namely, of the tribe of Manasseh, Gaddi the son of Susi.

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KJV Study Commentary

Joseph's tribe (through Manasseh) sent 'Gaddi the son of Susi.' The name 'Gaddi' means 'my fortune/troop' or 'fortunate,' yet his unbelief made him unfortunate - dying in wilderness without inheritance. Manasseh's blessing through Joseph promised fruitfulness - 'a fruitful bough by a well' (Gen 49:22). Yet Gaddi's fear prevented fruit-bearing. This illustrates that prophetic blessings require fait...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli.

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KJV Study Commentary

Dan's spy was 'Ammiel the son of Gemalli.' The name 'Ammiel' means 'God is my kinsman' or 'people of God,' claiming covenantal relationship. Yet claiming kinship with God while refusing to trust Him exposes the claim as false. Dan's blessing warned they'd be 'a serpent by the way' (Gen 49:17) - potentially dangerous and prone to idolatry (Judg 18:30-31). Ammiel fulfilled this negative potential, h...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael.

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KJV Study Commentary

Hoshea son of Nun later became Joshua ('Yahweh is salvation'), Israel's next leader who would actually bring them into Canaan. Moses' renaming of Hoshea to Joshua was prophetic, anticipating the salvation God would accomplish through him. This name change parallels Abram becoming Abraham, signifying divine purpose and transformation.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.

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KJV Study Commentary

Naphtali's representative was 'Nahbi the son of Vophsi.' The name 'Nahbi' means 'hidden' or 'secretive,' and tragically, he hid his faith (if any) behind the majority's unbelief. Naphtali's blessing described the tribe as 'a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words' (Gen 49:21) - eloquence and grace. Yet Nahbi's words were anything but goodly, spreading fearful discouragement. This illustrates that ...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**19. to make an atonement for the children of Israel, &c.--**to aid the priests in that expiatory work; or, as the words may be rendered, "to make redemption for" the Levites being exchanged or substituted for the first-born for this important end, that there might be a sanctified body of men appointed to guard the sanctuary, and the people not allowed to approach or presumptuously meddle wit...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi.

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KJV Study Commentary

Gad's spy was 'Geuel the son of Machi.' The name 'Geuel' means 'majesty of God,' yet his fearful report failed to see or proclaim God's majesty in the face of Canaanite opposition. Gad's blessing prophesied they'd 'overcome at the last' (Gen 49:19) - promise of ultimate victory despite interim struggles. Geuel never experienced this overcoming, dying in wilderness. His life illustrates that God's ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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These are the names of the men which Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses called Oshea the son of Nun Jehoshua.

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KJV Study Commentary

This verse lists spies from various tribes including Igal from Issachar. The repetitive naming formula emphasizes the official, formal nature of this mission—these were not random scouts but authorized representatives. Yet their authority did not guarantee wisdom or faith, as ten would later counsel rebellion against God's clear promise.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(16) **And Moses called Oshea . . . —**It is not distinctly stated that the change of name took place at this time. It may have taken place at an earlier period, and have been confirmed on the present occasion, as in the case of *Israel *(Genesis 32:28; Genesis 35:10), and of *Bethel *(Genesis 28:19; Genesis 35:15). On the other hand, it is quite possible that the name may have been proleptically ...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain:

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KJV Study Commentary

Moses sent them specifically 'into the south' (Hebrew 'negeb'), meaning the southern desert region of Canaan. The command to 'go up into the mountain' refers to the central hill country where fortified cities stood. This systematic reconnaissance from south to north would provide comprehensive intelligence for military strategy.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(17) **Get you up this way southward.—**Rather, *by the Negeb, *or *south country *(comp. Numbers 13:22). The southern part of Palestine was known by the name of *the Negeb. *It formed the transition from the desert to the more highly cultivated land, and was more fitted for grazing than for agricultural purposes. (See Wilton’s *The Negeb*.) **Into the mountain.—**The word which is here used commo...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And see the land, what it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many;

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KJV Study Commentary

Moses instructs the spies to observe the land's characteristics, the people's strength and numbers, and the cities' fortifications. This practical assessment would inform military planning, but Israel's success ultimately depended on God, not tactics. The questions 'is it fat or lean?' and 'are there wood therein?' addressed agricultural productivity and natural resources.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **And see the land.—**Or, *inspect the land. *The same word is used of the inspection of the leper by the priest in Leviticus 13:3; Leviticus 13:5-6; Leviticus 13:10; Leviticus 13:13, &c.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;

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KJV Study Commentary

Moses' question 'whether they be strong or weak, few or many' reveals that proper reconnaissance involves honest assessment of obstacles. Faith is not ignorance of difficulties but trust in God despite them. The spies were to gather accurate intelligence, not determine whether God could fulfill His promise—that was already settled.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Whether in tents.—**Better, *in camps, i.e., *in open villages and hamlets, as contrasted with strongholds or fortified places.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**24. from twenty and five years old, &c.--**(Compare Nu 4:3). They entered on their work in their twenty-fifth year, as pupils and probationers, under the superintendence and direction of their senior brethren; and at thirty they were admitted to the full discharge of their official functions.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the firstripe grapes.

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KJV Study Commentary

Moses commanded: 'bring of the fruit of the land.' The spies brought a cluster of grapes so large two men carried it on a pole (v.23), plus pomegranates and figs - evidence of Canaan's extraordinary fertility. The Hebrew 'pri' (fruit) demonstrated God's promise wasn't empty - the land truly flowed with milk and honey (v.27). Ironically, the same evidence that should have encouraged faith became am...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **Now the time . . . —**The first grapes ripen in Palestine as early as August, or even July, although the vintage does not take place until September or October.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**25. from the age of fifty years they shall cease waiting upon the service thereof, &c.--**that is, on the laborious and exhausting parts of their work.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

Chapter 13 Chapter Outline Twelve men sent to search the land of Canaan, Their instructions.(1-20) Their proceedings.(21-25) Their account of the land.(26-33) **Verses 1-20** A memorable and melancholy history is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, and the sentencing them to wander and perish in the wilderness, ...
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So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies 'searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.' This comprehensive reconnaissance covered Canaan from south to extreme north - approximately 250 miles. The Hebrew 'tur' (search) appears throughout this chapter, indicating thorough investigation. Their extensive survey ensured they fully understood what they reported, making their subsequent unbelief inex...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **From the wilderness of Zin.—**The name of the wilderness of Zin, in which Kadesh was situated, appears to have been given to the northern or northeastern part of the wilderness of Paran. Comp. Numbers 20:1; Numbers 27:14; Numbers 33:36; Numbers 34:3-4; Deuteronomy 32:51; Joshua 15:1; Joshua 15:3. **Unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.—**Or, *unto Rehob, at the entrance of Hamath. *Rehob is su...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**26. But shall minister with their brethren--**in the performance of easier and higher duties, instructing and directing the young, or superintending important trusts. "They also serve who only wait" [Milton].

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-25** The searchers of the land brought a bunch of grapes with them, and other fruits, as proofs of the goodness of the country; which was to Israel both the earnest and the specimen of all the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts we have in communion with God, foretastes of the fulness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan. We may see by them what heaven is.

And they ascended by the south, and came unto Hebron; where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the children of Anak, were. (Now Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies reached Hebron, where the giant Anakim dwelt. Hebron's association with Abraham (Genesis 13:18) made its occupation by giants particularly significant—the land promised to Abraham now seemed impossible to possess. Yet this very difficulty was designed to magnify God's faithfulness when He delivered it to His people.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(22) **And they ascended by the south, and came.**—The latter verb is in the singular number in the Hebrew text: *he came. *It is quite possible that the twelve spies may not always have been together, and that one only may have gone to Hebron. **Animan, Sheshai, and Talmai.—**Some suppose these to be the names of tribes, not of individuals. It is quite possible, however, that the same individuals...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-25** The searchers of the land brought a bunch of grapes with them, and other fruits, as proofs of the goodness of the country; which was to Israel both the earnest and the specimen of all the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts we have in communion with God, foretastes of the fulness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan. We may see by them what heaven is.

And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff; and they brought of the pomegranates, and of the figs. brook: or, valley

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KJV Study Commentary

The Valley of Eshcol ('cluster') produced grapes so abundant that two men carried one cluster on a pole, along with pomegranates and figs. This extraordinary fruit testified to Canaan's richness—exactly as God had promised, 'a land flowing with milk and honey.' Physical evidence of God's promise made unbelief all the more inexcusable.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **The brook of Eshcol.—**This is commonly identified with the valley of Hebron. Ritter says that the reputation of the grapes of Hebron is so great throughout all Palestine that there is no difficulty in believing that the valley of Eshcol was that which is directly north of the city of Hebron. The valley may have derived its name originally from Eshcol, the brother of Mamre the Amorite (Gene...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-25** The searchers of the land brought a bunch of grapes with them, and other fruits, as proofs of the goodness of the country; which was to Israel both the earnest and the specimen of all the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts we have in communion with God, foretastes of the fulness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan. We may see by them what heaven is.

The place was called the brook Eshcol, because of the cluster of grapes which the children of Israel cut down from thence. brook: or, valley Eshcol: that is, A cluster of grapes

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KJV Study Commentary

The naming of the valley 'Eshcol' memorialized the cluster brought back as evidence. Names in Scripture often commemorate God's faithfulness, creating permanent reminders for future generations. Yet tragically, this monument to God's promise would also mark the place where Israel rejected His gift through unbelief.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(24) **The place was called . . . —**This verse states the reason why the valley was so called by the Israelites, but does not determine the question whether it originally derived its name from Eshcol or not.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 9 Nu 9:1-5. The Passover Enjoined. **2-5. Let the children of Israel also keep the passover at his appointed season, &c.--**The date of this command to keep the passover in the wilderness was given shortly after the erection and consecration of the tabernacle and preceded the numbering of the people by a month. (Compare Nu 9:1 with Nu 1:1, 2). But it is narrated after that transaction...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-25** The searchers of the land brought a bunch of grapes with them, and other fruits, as proofs of the goodness of the country; which was to Israel both the earnest and the specimen of all the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts we have in communion with God, foretastes of the fulness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan. We may see by them what heaven is.

The Spies' Report

And they returned from searching of the land after forty days.

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KJV Study Commentary

The forty-day reconnaissance mission coincided with first-ripe grapes, indicating late summer (July-August). This timing allowed the spies to witness Canaan's agricultural abundance at peak productivity. The number forty often appears in Scripture as a period of testing and probation (Noah's flood, Moses' mountain sojourn, Jesus' temptation).

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(25) **After forty days.—**This time allowed a full and careful exploration of the land.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 9 Nu 9:1-5. The Passover Enjoined. **2-5. Let the children of Israel also keep the passover at his appointed season, &c.--**The date of this command to keep the passover in the wilderness was given shortly after the erection and consecration of the tabernacle and preceded the numbering of the people by a month. (Compare Nu 9:1 with Nu 1:1, 2). But it is narrated after that transaction...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 21-25** The searchers of the land brought a bunch of grapes with them, and other fruits, as proofs of the goodness of the country; which was to Israel both the earnest and the specimen of all the fruits of Canaan. Such are the present comforts we have in communion with God, foretastes of the fulness of joy we expect in the heavenly Canaan. We may see by them what heaven is.

And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and shewed them the fruit of the land.

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies returned to Kadesh with physical evidence of Canaan's fertility: a cluster of grapes so large it required two men to carry it on a pole. This tangible proof confirmed God's description of a land 'flowing with milk and honey.' Yet even undeniable evidence couldn't overcome unbelief in ten spies' hearts.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(26) **To Kadesh.—**Robinson and others identify Kadeeh with *Ain-el-Weibeh, *which is in the Arabah, about ten miles north of the place in which Mount Hor abuts on that valley. On the other hand, Mr. Wilton, in *The Negeb *(pp. 79, 80), and Mr. Palmer in the *Desert of the Exodus *(Numbers 25), maintain the identity of Kadesh with el-Ain, which is about sixty miles west of Mount Hor, and about fi...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 9 Nu 9:1-5. The Passover Enjoined. **2-5. Let the children of Israel also keep the passover at his appointed season, &c.--**The date of this command to keep the passover in the wilderness was given shortly after the erection and consecration of the tabernacle and preceded the numbering of the people by a month. (Compare Nu 9:1 with Nu 1:1, 2). But it is narrated after that transaction...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it.

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies' report begins accurately: the land does flow with milk and honey, confirmed by the fruit as evidence. They acknowledge God's promise was true regarding the land's abundance. Yet their subsequent 'nevertheless' (verse 28) reveals how faith and fear can coexist, with fear ultimately dominating ten spies' perspective.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

CHAPTER 9 Nu 9:1-5. The Passover Enjoined. **2-5. Let the children of Israel also keep the passover at his appointed season, &c.--**The date of this command to keep the passover in the wilderness was given shortly after the erection and consecration of the tabernacle and preceded the numbering of the people by a month. (Compare Nu 9:1 with Nu 1:1, 2). But it is narrated after that transaction...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

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KJV Study Commentary

The 'nevertheless' introduces the fatal objection: the people are strong and the cities fortified. The conjunction contrasts Canaan's goodness with its perceived impregnability. That the people 'be strong' and cities 'walled, and very great' was true, but irrelevant in light of God's promise. They saw giants; they should have remembered God parting the Red Sea.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(28) **Nevertheless the people be strong . . . —**The spies adopted the words of Exodus 3:8, “flowing with milk and honey,” as descriptive of the fertility of the land of Canaan, but at the same time they discouraged the hearts of their brethren by their description of the strength of the fortified cities and the gigantic stature of the inhabitants. **The children of Anak.—**Better, *of the Anakim...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Nu 9:6-14. A Second Passover Allowed. **6-7. there were certain men, who were defiled by the dead body of a man--**To discharge the last offices to the remains of deceased relatives was imperative; and yet attendance on a funeral entailed ceremonial defilement, which led to exclusion from all society and from the camp for seven days. Some persons who were in this situation at the arrival of the f...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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The Amalekites dwell in the land of the south: and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and by the coast of Jordan.

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies reported three formidable peoples: Amalekites in the south, Hittites and others in the mountains, and Canaanites by the sea. This accurate intelligence identified real obstacles—yet faith in God's promise should have made these details irrelevant. Knowledge of enemies is valuable only when coupled with confidence in God's superior power.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **The land of the south.—**Better, *of the south country, *or *the Negeb. *See Genesis 36:12, and also Numbers 13:17 of this Num. and Note. **The mountains.—**See Genesis 10:15-16, and Numbers 13:17 of this Num. and Note. **The Canaanites.—**See Genesis 10:15-18; Genesis 13:7, and Notes.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Nu 9:6-14. A Second Passover Allowed. **6-7. there were certain men, who were defiled by the dead body of a man--**To discharge the last offices to the remains of deceased relatives was imperative; and yet attendance on a funeral entailed ceremonial defilement, which led to exclusion from all society and from the camp for seven days. Some persons who were in this situation at the arrival of the f...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

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KJV Study Commentary

Caleb's bold declaration stands in stark contrast to the fearful report of the other spies. The phrase 'stilled the people' uses the Hebrew 'has' (הַס), meaning to silence or hush—Caleb had to quiet the panic spreading through Israel. His emphatic command—'Let us go up at once, and possess it'—expresses urgent faith. The Hebrew 'aloh na'aleh' (עָלֹה נַעֲלֶה) literally means 'going up, let us go up...
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Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(30) **And Caleb stilled the people.—**The fact that Caleb alone is mentioned in this place is by no means inconsistent with the statement which is contained in Numbers 14:6-9, from which it appears that Joshua and Caleb concurred in exhorting the people to go up and take possession of the land of promise. It appears, moreover, from Deuteronomy 1:29, &c., that Moses also remonstrated earnestly wit...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8-14. Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the Lord will command concerning you--**A solution of the difficulty was soon obtained, it being enacted, by divine authority, that to those who might be disqualified by the occurrence of a death in their family circle or unable by distance to keep the passover on the anniversary day, a special license was granted of observing it by t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.

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KJV Study Commentary

The ten faithless spies directly contradicted Caleb: 'We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.' Their assessment was purely human calculation, ignoring God's presence and power. The comparison 'stronger than we' reveals their self-reliance—they measured Canaanite strength against their own rather than against God's omnipotence.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8-14. Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the Lord will command concerning you--**A solution of the difficulty was soon obtained, it being enacted, by divine authority, that to those who might be disqualified by the occurrence of a death in their family circle or unable by distance to keep the passover on the anniversary day, a special license was granted of observing it by t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. men: Heb. men of statures

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KJV Study Commentary

The ten spies brought an 'evil report' (Hebrew 'dibbah', meaning slander or whispering). They slandered the land God called good, claiming 'it is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof.' This contradicted their earlier testimony of its abundance, showing how fear distorts truth. Their words constituted rebellion against God Himself, not mere military timidity.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(32) **A land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof.**—Some understand by this phrase a land of scarcity, unable to support its inhabitants; others understand it as denoting an unhealthy land, in which sense it appears to be still used in the East. (See Roberts’ *Oriental Illustrations, *p. 101, 8vo, 1844.) It seems more probable, however, that the allusion is to the strife and discord which prev...
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8-14. Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the Lord will command concerning you--**A solution of the difficulty was soon obtained, it being enacted, by divine authority, that to those who might be disqualified by the occurrence of a death in their family circle or unable by distance to keep the passover on the anniversary day, a special license was granted of observing it by t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.

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KJV Study Commentary

The spies described themselves as 'grasshoppers' compared to the giants (Nephilim/sons of Anak). This self-perception—'so we were in our own sight'—reveals the core problem: they forgot their identity as God's covenant people. Worse, they projected their fear onto enemies: 'so we were in their sight.' Unbelief shrinks saints and magnifies enemies.

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(33) **And there we saw the giants.—**The same word, *nephilim. *is here used which is found in Genesis 6:4. See Note *in loc.* **Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission. **Bible Hub

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**8-14. Moses said unto them, Stand still, and I will hear what the Lord will command concerning you--**A solution of the difficulty was soon obtained, it being enacted, by divine authority, that to those who might be disqualified by the occurrence of a death in their family circle or unable by distance to keep the passover on the anniversary day, a special license was granted of observing it by t...
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Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary

**Verses 26-33** We may wonder that the people of Israel staid forty days for the return of their spies, when they were ready to enter Canaan, under all the assurances of success they could have from the Divine power, and the miracles that had hitherto attended them. But they distrusted God's power and promise. How much we stand in our own light by our unbelief! At length the messengers return...
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