Numbers 33:55
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 33:55
55 But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.
Chapter Context
Numbers 33 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, judgment. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-56: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 33:55
55 But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.
Analysis
God warns: if Israel fails to drive out Canaan's inhabitants, 'those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land.' The vivid metaphors - pricks, thorns, vexation - describe constant irritation and eventual suffering. This prophecy proved accurate: Israel's incomplete obedience led to centuries of idolatry, intermarriage, and warfare with remaining Canaanites (Judg 2:1-3). The principle applies spiritually: besetting sins we fail to mortify become ongoing sources of trouble and stumbling. Paul uses similar imagery for his 'thorn in the flesh' (2 Cor 12:7), though for different purposes - God's disciplining love versus consequences of disobedience.
Historical Context
Israel partially obeyed God's command to drive out Canaanites. Judges details their incomplete conquest and resulting apostasy. The Canaanites' idolatry, immorality, and child sacrifice continually tempted Israel, leading to the cycle of sin, judgment, repentance, and deliverance in Judges. Eventually, this syncretism brought the Babylonian exile. The failure to fully obey demonstrated that partial obedience equals disobedience. God's command for complete conquest seems harsh to modern readers but protected Israel from spiritual corruption that ultimately destroyed them. The New Testament calls for mortifying sin completely (Col 3:5), not tolerating 'small' sins.
Reflection
- What 'small' sins are you tolerating that will become 'thorns in your side' if not dealt with decisively?
- How does Israel's incomplete obedience and its consequences warn you about the danger of partial commitment to God's commands?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 23:33, Deuteronomy 7:4, 7:16, Judges 2:3, Ezekiel 28:24