Numbers 25:17
Vex the Midianites, and smite them:
Original Language Analysis
צָר֖וֹר
Vex
H6887
צָר֖וֹר
Vex
Strong's:
H6887
Word #:
1 of 5
to cramp, literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 5
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמִּדְיָנִ֑ים
the Midianites
H4084
הַמִּדְיָנִ֑ים
the Midianites
Strong's:
H4084
Word #:
3 of 5
a midjanite or descendant (native) of midjan
Historical Context
The incident at Baal Peor (where Midianite women seduced Israelite men into idolatry and fornication) resulted in 24,000 Israelite deaths by plague (25:9). This devastating judgment showed God's zero tolerance for syncretism. The event became a proverbial warning throughout Scripture (Deuteronomy 4:3; Joshua 22:17; Psalm 106:28-29; Hosea 9:10) about the dangers of sexual and spiritual compromise.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we recognize subtle spiritual strategies versus obvious attacks?
- What modern 'wiles' seek to corrupt God's people through seduction rather than persecution?
- How can we develop discernment to recognize and resist spiritual schemes?
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Analysis & Commentary
The ongoing command 'For they vex you with their wiles' (continuing from verse 16) explains the reason for warfare: Midian's strategic deception. The Hebrew nekel (wiles/craftiness) indicates cunning schemes. This wasn't random conflict but calculated spiritual warfare. Midian couldn't defeat Israel militarily (Balaam's failed curses proved that), so they used seduction. This reveals Satan's strategy—when frontal assault fails, use subtle corruption. Paul warns similarly: 'lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices' (2 Corinthians 2:11). Recognizing spiritual strategies is essential to resisting them.