King James Version

What Does Numbers 31:1 Mean?

Numbers 31:1 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”

Numbers 31:1 · King James Version

Context

1

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2

Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites: afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people.

3

And Moses spake unto the people, saying, Arm some of yourselves unto the war, and let them go against the Midianites, and avenge the LORD of Midian.

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Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
The LORD's command to Moses to 'avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites' demonstrates that God executes judgment through His people. The phrase 'afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people' connects Moses' final military leadership with his approaching death. This teaches that God's leaders fulfill their calling even to life's end. The judgment on Midian for leading Israel into idolatry and sexual immorality (Numbers 25) shows that God takes seriously the corruption of His people. The Reformed doctrine of divine judgment includes temporal punishment executed through human agency.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Midianites had employed Balaam's counsel to seduce Israel into worshiping Baal-Peor through sexual immorality, resulting in a plague that killed 24,000 Israelites. This judgment answered that offense. Moses' role in executing this final act of leadership before his death demonstrated his faithful service to the end. The battle would avenge both God's honor and Israel's corruption.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's command for judgment demonstrate His holiness and justice?
  2. What does Moses' service until death teach about faithful leadership?
  3. In what ways does temporal judgment on sin illustrate eternal judgment to come?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5

“spake”

H1696

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5

“And the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מֹשֶׁ֥ה4 of 5

“unto Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

לֵּאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 31:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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