Numbers 13:1
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 5
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
This occurred at Kadesh-barnea, on Canaan's southern border, approximately two years after the Exodus. Deuteronomy 1:22 indicates the people requested this scouting mission, which God permitted while knowing it would reveal their unbelief.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance wise planning with simple trust in God's promises?
- In what areas of life do you treat God's promises as uncertain rather than guaranteed?
Related Resources
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Analysis & 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.