Numbers 32:28
So concerning them Moses commanded Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel:
Original Language Analysis
אֵ֚ת
H853
אֵ֚ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַכֹּהֵ֔ן
the priest
H3548
הַכֹּהֵ֔ן
the priest
Strong's:
H3548
Word #:
6 of 16
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
וְאֵ֖ת
H853
וְאֵ֖ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לִבְנֵ֥י
of the children
H1121
לִבְנֵ֥י
of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
9 of 16
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
11 of 16
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
רָאשֵׁ֛י
and the chief
H7218
רָאשֵׁ֛י
and the chief
Strong's:
H7218
Word #:
12 of 16
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
אֲב֥וֹת
fathers
H1
אֲב֥וֹת
fathers
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
13 of 16
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
הַמַּטּ֖וֹת
of the tribes
H4294
הַמַּטּ֖וֹת
of the tribes
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
14 of 16
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
Historical Context
Moses knew he wouldn't enter Canaan (Numbers 20:12; Deuteronomy 34:4), necessitating clear instructions to successor leadership. By involving Eleazar, Joshua, and tribal elders, Moses ensured institutional memory would survive leadership transition. This foresight prevented Reuben and Gad from later claiming Moses made unconditional promises—witnesses held them accountable.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Moses' establishment of multi-party oversight teach the importance of transparency and verification in significant agreements?
- What does involving priest, military leader, and elders demonstrate about comprehensive accountability across different authority spheres?
- How can you ensure that major commitments involve adequate witnesses and documentation to prevent future disputes or misunderstandings?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
So concerning them Moses commanded Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel—Moses establishes verification committee: Eleazar the priest (representing religious authority), Joshua (military commander/Moses' successor), and chief fathers (tribal elders). The verb commanded (צִוָּה tzivah) indicates authoritative instruction ensuring covenant terms would be enforced.
This multi-authority oversight (priest + prophet-successor + tribal elders) prevented later disputes about conditional land grants. Transparent accountability involving multiple witnesses mirrors New Testament principle: 'By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established' (Matthew 18:16). Significant covenant commitments require documentation and multiple-party verification to prevent later confusion or manipulation.