Numbers 20:14
And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us:
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח
sent
H7971
וַיִּשְׁלַ֨ח
sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
1 of 18
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
מַלְאָכִ֛ים
messengers
H4397
מַלְאָכִ֛ים
messengers
Strong's:
H4397
Word #:
3 of 18
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
אֱד֑וֹם
of Edom
H123
אֱד֑וֹם
of Edom
Strong's:
H123
Word #:
7 of 18
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him
כֹּ֤ה
H3541
כֹּ֤ה
Strong's:
H3541
Word #:
8 of 18
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
אָחִ֣יךָ
thy brother
H251
אָחִ֣יךָ
thy brother
Strong's:
H251
Word #:
10 of 18
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
11 of 18
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
יָדַ֔עְתָּ
Thou knowest
H3045
יָדַ֔עְתָּ
Thou knowest
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
13 of 18
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
אֵ֥ת
H853
אֵ֥ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
14 of 18
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
15 of 18
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
The enmity between Israel and Edom originated with Jacob and Esau's conflict (Genesis 25-27), persisting for generations. This request for passage mirrored the later command not to abhor Edomites (Deuteronomy 23:7). God expected His people to overcome ancient grudges and extend peace even where it might be rejected.
Questions for Reflection
- What family or historical conflicts need you to take initiative in pursuing peace?
- How do you respond when peaceful overtures are rejected by those who should welcome them?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Moses sent messengers to Edom's king calling Israel 'thy brother'—referencing Esau's descent from Esau, Jacob's twin. This appeal to kinship sought peaceful passage, demonstrating that God's people should pursue peace with neighbors when possible. Yet Edom's refusal (verse 18) shows that familial connection doesn't guarantee cooperation, especially when old animosities persist.