Numbers 35:1
And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֧ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֧ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 10
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֛ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֛ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 10
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת
in the plains
H6160
בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת
in the plains
Strong's:
H6160
Word #:
5 of 10
a desert; especially (with the article prefix) the (generally) sterile valley of the jordan and its continuation to the red sea
מוֹאָ֑ב
of Moab
H4124
מוֹאָ֑ב
of Moab
Strong's:
H4124
Word #:
6 of 10
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
The plains of Moab were located on the east side of the Jordan River across from Jericho, in modern-day Jordan. Israel camped here for several months (Numbers 22-36), during which Moses received final legislation, blessed the tribes, and prepared Joshua for leadership. This was circa 1406 BC, the fortieth year after the Exodus. The first generation that left Egypt had died in the wilderness.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'systems of justice' or practical structures does God want you to establish before entering your next season?
- How does God's attention to practical details (cities, measurements, legal processes) challenge any dichotomy between 'spiritual' and 'practical' matters?
- What promises of God are you 'on the threshold' of seeing fulfilled, and how are you preparing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho—This location (עַרְב֥וֹת מוֹאָ֖ב, ʿarəḇôṯ môʾāḇ) marks the end of the wilderness wandering, with Israel poised to enter Canaan. The phrase 'the LORD spake' (waydabber YHWH) introduces crucial legislation about Levitical cities and cities of refuge (chapters 35)—practical arrangements for the coming settled life.
The geographical precision ('by Jordan near Jericho') emphasizes imminent fulfillment of the Abrahamic promise. After forty years of wandering, Israel stands at the threshold. The timing shows God's concern for practical holiness: before conquest, establish justice systems. These cities would ensure both Levitical support and equitable justice, preventing blood feuds from corrupting the land.