Numbers 20:18
And Edom said unto him, Thou shalt not pass by me, lest I come out against thee with the sword.
Original Language Analysis
אֱד֔וֹם
And Edom
H123
אֱד֔וֹם
And Edom
Strong's:
H123
Word #:
3 of 10
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
4 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תַֽעֲבֹ֖ר
unto him Thou shalt not pass
H5674
תַֽעֲבֹ֖ר
unto him Thou shalt not pass
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
5 of 10
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
פֶּן
H6435
פֶּן
Strong's:
H6435
Word #:
7 of 10
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
בַּחֶ֖רֶב
thee with the sword
H2719
בַּחֶ֖רֶב
thee with the sword
Strong's:
H2719
Word #:
8 of 10
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
Historical Context
Edom's antagonism toward Israel would persist throughout their histories (Psalm 137:7, Obadiah). This initial refusal set a pattern of hostility that God's people remembered with grief. Yet God's command not to fight Edom (Deuteronomy 2:4-5) required accepting this rejection peacefully.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond with godly restraint when treated unfairly or hostilely?
- What ancient conflicts need you to refuse perpetuation despite others' antagonism?
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Analysis & Commentary
Edom answered, 'Thou shalt not pass by me, lest I come out against thee with the sword.' This hostile refusal, despite kinship and reasonable request, demonstrates that ancient resentments can override both family ties and fairness. Israel's response was not to force passage but to seek alternate route (verse 21), showing restraint even when wronged.