Numbers 36:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 36:13
13 These are the commandments and the judgments, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho.
Chapter Context
Numbers 36 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, judgment, creation. 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 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 36:13
13 These are the commandments and the judgments, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho.
Analysis
This verse concludes Numbers: 'These are the commandments and the judgments, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho.' The phrase emphasizes divine origin ('the LORD commanded') and human mediation ('by the hand of Moses'). The specific location - Moab's plains, poised to enter Canaan - marks a transitional moment. Forty years of wilderness wanderings culminate here; the next step is Jordan-crossing and conquest. This conclusion, like all Scripture, comes 'by the hand' of human authors under divine inspiration (2 Pet 1:21), ensuring both divine authority and human personality.
Historical Context
Written at the end of Israel's wilderness period, this conclusion summarizes laws given at Moab after Sinai's earlier revelation. The location 'by Jordan near Jericho' is theologically significant - Israel stands on Canaan's threshold, laws fresh in mind before entering. Archaeological excavations near Jericho confirm this area was suitable for large encampments. Moses speaks these final words before his death (Deut 34), making this conclusion both ending and beginning - law given, land awaiting, leadership transitioning to Joshua.
Reflection
- How do you view Scripture's dual authorship - fully divine yet fully human - and what does this mean for biblical authority?
- As you stand on the threshold of new seasons, how do you ensure God's commands are fresh in your mind before proceeding?
Word Studies
- Judgment: מִשְׁפָּט (Mishpat) H4941 - Judgment, justice
Cross-References
- Word: Leviticus 27:34
- References Israel: Numbers 22:1