Numbers Chapter 32 · Verse 6
And Moses said unto the children of Gad and to the children of Reuben, Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here?
Original Language Analysis
וְלִבְנֵ֣י
and to the children
H1121
וְלִבְנֵ֣י
and to the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
גָ֖ד
of Gad
H1410
גָ֖ד
of Gad
Strong's:
H1410
Word #:
4 of 12
gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet
וְלִבְנֵ֣י
and to the children
H1121
וְלִבְנֵ֣י
and to the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
הַאַֽחֵיכֶ֗ם
Shall your brethren
H251
הַאַֽחֵיכֶ֗ם
Shall your brethren
Strong's:
H251
Word #:
7 of 12
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
לַמִּלְחָמָ֔ה
to war
H4421
לַמִּלְחָמָ֔ה
to war
Strong's:
H4421
Word #:
9 of 12
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
Historical Context
Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh requested territory east of Jordan for their large herds (v.1-5). Moses feared this repeated the ten spies' sin - discouraging others from entering Canaan. However, these tribes committed to fight alongside their brothers until Canaan was conquered, leaving families and flocks east of Jordan (v.16-27). Joshua 22:1-9 records their dismissal after faithful service. This arrangement demonstrated that enjoying God's blessings brings responsibility to help others receive theirs. The tribes' willingness to fight before settling showed proper priorities and brotherly commitment.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you enjoying spiritual blessings while neglecting to help others in their spiritual battles and growth?
- How are you bearing burdens with fellow believers rather than pursuing comfortable isolation?
Analysis & Commentary
Moses rebukes Reuben and Gad: 'Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here?' This rhetorical question challenges them about solidarity with the covenant community. The Hebrew 'yashab' (sit/dwell) suggests comfortable settlement while brothers face danger. Moses saw this as potential repetition of the spies' discouragement (v.7-15). The rebuke teaches corporate responsibility - belonging to God's people means sharing burdens, not pursuing personal comfort while others fight. Paul applies this: 'Bear ye one another's burdens' (Gal 6:2). The church is a body; when one part suffers, all should share the load (1 Cor 12:26).