Numbers 32:20
And Moses said unto them, If ye will do this thing, if ye will go armed before the LORD to war,
Original Language Analysis
אִֽם
H518
אִֽם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
4 of 13
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
תַּעֲשׂ֖וּן
unto them If ye will do
H6213
תַּעֲשׂ֖וּן
unto them If ye will do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
5 of 13
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַדָּבָ֣ר
this thing
H1697
הַדָּבָ֣ר
this thing
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
7 of 13
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
הַזֶּ֑ה
H2088
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
9 of 13
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
תֵּחָֽלְצ֛וּ
if ye will go armed
H2502
תֵּחָֽלְצ֛וּ
if ye will go armed
Strong's:
H2502
Word #:
10 of 13
to pull off; hence (intensively) to strip, (reflexive) to depart; by implication, to deliver, equip (for fight); present, strengthen
לִפְנֵ֥י
before
H6440
לִפְנֵ֥י
before
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
11 of 13
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
Historical Context
The condition that they fight 'before the LORD' (verse 20) meant in the vanguard, taking most dangerous position. This proved their sincerity—not seeking safety while others fought but bearing greatest risk. Their willingness to accept these terms showed genuine repentance from initial self-centered request.
Questions for Reflection
- How can pursuing personal interests be reconciled with community obligations?
- What does it mean to bear disproportionate burden to prove your commitment to community welfare?
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Analysis & Commentary
After Reuben and Gad promised to fight alongside other tribes before settling, Moses consented with conditions. Their amended proposal demonstrated that initial resistance to community obligation could be overcome through committed promise to participate in corporate mission. Proper resolution required both sides hearing each other and finding solution serving both personal interest and communal good.