Numbers 27:5
And Moses brought their cause before the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּקְרֵ֥ב
brought
H7126
וַיַּקְרֵ֥ב
brought
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
1 of 6
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מִשְׁפָּטָ֖ן
their cause
H4941
מִשְׁפָּטָ֖ן
their cause
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
Historical Context
This wasn't the only time Moses brought hard cases before God (15:34, Leviticus 24:12). The pattern established that God's word must govern new situations, not merely precedent or human reasoning. Later Jewish tradition developed methods for extending Torah principles to new cases, rooted in this example.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you seek God's wisdom for situations not explicitly addressed in Scripture?
- What role does prayer play in your decision-making, especially for unprecedented situations?
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses brought their case 'before the LORD'—acknowledging that novel situations require divine wisdom. Rather than deciding based solely on tradition or personal judgment, he sought God's will. This demonstrates proper leadership: recognizing limits of human wisdom and deferring to divine instruction when facing new questions.