Numbers 35:10
Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come over Jordan into the land of Canaan;
Original Language Analysis
דַּבֵּר֙
Speak
H1696
דַּבֵּר֙
Speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 13
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
בְּנֵ֣י
unto the children
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
unto the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 13
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
4 of 13
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
7 of 13
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
עֹֽבְרִ֥ים
unto them When ye be come over
H5674
עֹֽבְרִ֥ים
unto them When ye be come over
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
9 of 13
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
10 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
The cities of refuge would not be established immediately but when Israel conquered and settled Canaan. Advance explanation ensured the people understood the purpose and procedures. When the cities were eventually designated (Joshua 20), Israel already understood the system's operation and theological basis.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does God prioritize understanding alongside obedience in His commands?
- How does teaching the reasons behind laws affect their implementation and acceptance?
- In what ways should the church emphasize both instruction and obedience in discipleship?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The instruction to speak to Israel before giving the command demonstrates that understanding precedes obedience. Moses must prepare the people for this law by explaining its context and purpose. This teaches that law without explanation can be misunderstood or misapplied. The Reformed emphasis on teaching and catechesis before implementation is supported here—God's people must understand the reasons and purposes behind His commands. Blind obedience isn't the goal; informed, willing submission is.