Numbers 13:16
These are the names of the men which Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses called Oshea the son of Nun Jehoshua.
Original Language Analysis
שְׁמ֣וֹת
These are the names
H8034
שְׁמ֣וֹת
These are the names
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
2 of 15
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים
H376
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
3 of 15
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 15
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
שָׁלַ֥ח
sent
H7971
שָׁלַ֥ח
sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
5 of 15
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
לָת֣וּר
to spy out
H8446
לָת֣וּר
to spy out
Strong's:
H8446
Word #:
7 of 15
to meander (causatively, guide) about, especially for trade or reconnoitring
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
8 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וַיִּקְרָ֥א
called
H7121
וַיִּקְרָ֥א
called
Strong's:
H7121
Word #:
10 of 15
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
Cross References
Historical Context
The tribal leaders selected were 'heads' or 'princes' (verse 3), men of status and influence. Their subsequent unfaithful report carried tremendous weight, swaying the entire nation. Leadership amplifies both the consequences of unbelief and the power of faithful testimony.
Questions for Reflection
- How does position or status affect the impact of your words and example?
- When have you seen influential people lead others astray through unbelief?
Related Resources
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Analysis & 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.