Judges 11:17

Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, 'Please let us pass through your land,' but the king of Edom would not listen. They also sent messengers to the king of Moab, but he would not consent. So Israel stayed in Kadesh.

Study Bible

Then Israel sent messengers
The act of sending messengers reflects a diplomatic approach, emphasizing Israel's desire for peaceful passage rather than conflict. In the Hebrew context, the word for "messengers" (מַלְאָכִים, mal'akhim) can also mean "angels" or "envoys," indicating a formal and respectful request. This action underscores Israel's commitment to seeking peaceful solutions, aligning with God's instructions to avoid unnecessary warfare with Edom and Moab (Deuteronomy 2:4-9).

to the king of Edom
Edom, descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, shares a familial connection with Israel. Historically, Edom's territory lay south of the Dead Sea, a strategic location for Israel's journey. The request to Edom highlights the complex relationships between the nations, rooted in shared ancestry yet marred by historical tensions. This appeal to Edom is a reminder of the importance of reconciliation and peace among kindred nations.

saying, ‘Please let us pass through your land,’
The phrase "Please let us pass" (נַעְבְּרָה־נָּא, na'berah-na) is a polite entreaty, reflecting humility and respect. Israel's request is not for conquest but for passage, emphasizing their intention to avoid conflict. This plea demonstrates Israel's reliance on God's promise to lead them to the Promised Land, trusting in His provision and guidance.

but the king of Edom would not listen
Edom's refusal to grant passage is significant, reflecting a hardened heart and a lack of hospitality. This decision is rooted in historical animosity and fear of Israel's growing power. The refusal serves as a test of Israel's faith and patience, reminding believers that God's plans may involve obstacles that require trust and perseverance.

And they also sent to the king of Moab
Moab, like Edom, shares a familial link with Israel, being descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew. The approach to Moab signifies Israel's consistent strategy of seeking peaceful passage. Moab's location east of the Dead Sea made it another critical region for Israel's journey. This outreach to Moab highlights the importance of seeking peace with neighbors, even when past interactions have been fraught with difficulty.

but he refused
Moab's refusal, like Edom's, reflects a lack of cooperation and trust. This rejection is a reminder of the spiritual and moral challenges Israel faced, as well as the broader theme of resistance to God's people. It underscores the reality that following God's path may involve encountering opposition and rejection.

So Israel stayed in Kadesh
Kadesh, a significant location in Israel's wilderness journey, represents a place of waiting and testing. The Hebrew root for "stayed" (יֵשֵׁב, yeshev) implies dwelling or abiding, suggesting a period of reflection and preparation. Kadesh becomes a symbol of God's faithfulness in times of delay, teaching Israel to trust in His timing and provision. This period of waiting is a powerful reminder that God's promises are fulfilled in His perfect time, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The collective name for the descendants of Jacob, also known as the Israelites. At this point in their history, they are journeying to the Promised Land.

2. Messengers
Representatives sent by Israel to communicate with the kings of Edom and Moab, seeking permission to pass through their lands.

3. King of Edom
The ruler of Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. He refused Israel's request to pass through his territory.

4. King of Moab
The ruler of Moab, a nation descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew. He also denied Israel passage through his land.

5. Kadesh
A location where the Israelites stayed during their wilderness journey. It served as a significant encampment site during their wanderings.

Teaching Points

Respect for Boundaries
The Israelites' request to pass through Edom and Moab underscores the importance of respecting national boundaries and seeking peaceful resolutions.

Historical Tensions
The refusal by Edom and Moab highlights longstanding familial and national tensions, reminding us of the complexities in relationships that can span generations.

God's Sovereignty in Obstacles
Despite the refusals, God had a plan for Israel. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty when we face obstacles and closed doors.

Persistence in Faith
Israel's continued journey despite setbacks encourages believers to persist in faith, trusting that God will provide a way forward.

Diplomacy and Communication
The use of messengers illustrates the value of diplomacy and clear communication in resolving conflicts and seeking cooperation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the refusal of Edom and Moab to allow passage reflect the historical tensions between these nations and Israel? How can understanding these tensions help us in resolving conflicts today?

2. In what ways does the Israelites' experience in Kadesh teach us about waiting on God's timing and provision? Can you think of a personal situation where you had to wait on God?

3. How does the account of Israel's journey through hostile territories encourage us to trust in God's guidance when we face obstacles in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Israel's approach to diplomacy and communication with Edom and Moab? How can these lessons be applied in our interactions with others?

5. How do the events in Judges 11:17 connect with God's broader plan for Israel as seen in other parts of the Bible? How does this understanding impact our view of God's plan for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 20:14-21
Provides a detailed account of Israel's request to pass through Edom and the subsequent refusal, highlighting the tension between the two nations.

Deuteronomy 2:4-9
Offers further insight into God's instructions to Israel regarding their interactions with Edom and Moab, emphasizing respect for their territories.

Genesis 36:1-8
Describes the lineage of Esau, the ancestor of the Edomites, providing background on the historical relationship between Israel and Edom.