King James Version
What Does Numbers 32:8 Mean?
“Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadeshbarnea to see the land.”
Context
6
And Moses said unto the children of Gad and to the children of Reuben, Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here?
7
And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them? discourage: Heb. break
8
Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadeshbarnea to see the land.
9
For when they went up unto the valley of Eshcol, and saw the land, they discouraged the heart of the children of Israel, that they should not go into the land which the LORD had given them.
10
And the LORD'S anger was kindled the same time, and he sware, saying,
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary**Verses 6-15**
The proposal showed disregard to the land of Canaan, distrust of the Lord's promise, and unwillingness to encounter the difficulties and dangers of conquering and driving out the inhabitants of that land. Moses is wroth with them. It will becomes any of God's Israel to sit down unconcerned about the difficult and perilous concerns of their brethren, whether public or personal. He reminds them of the fatal consequences of the unbelief and faint-heartedness of their fathers, when they were, as themselves, just ready to enter Canaan. If men considered as they ought what would be the end of sin, they would be afraid of the beginning of it.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
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 32:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 32:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge