Numbers 13:5
Of the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat the son of Hori.
Original Language Analysis
לְמַטֵּ֣ה
Of the tribe
H4294
לְמַטֵּ֣ה
Of the tribe
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
1 of 5
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
שִׁמְע֔וֹן
of Simeon
H8095
שִׁמְע֔וֹן
of Simeon
Strong's:
H8095
Word #:
2 of 5
shimon, one of jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him
Historical Context
Simeon's territory would later be enclosed within Judah's borders (Joshua 19:1), reflecting Jacob's prophecy of Simeon's dispersion (Genesis 49:7). The tribe's representative here joined the majority in spreading the evil report that led to forty years of wandering.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's provision of evidence and opportunity increase accountability for faith or unbelief?
- What role does peer pressure play when the majority chooses unbelief over God's promises?
Related Resources
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Analysis & 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.