Numbers 25:1-4 ▼

1 Israel settled and remained in Shittim, and the people began to play the prostitute with the women of Moab [by being unfaithful to God].

2 For they invited the Israelites to the sacrifices of their gods, and the Israelites ate [food offered to idols] and bowed down to Moab’s gods.

3 So Israel joined themselves to Baal of Peor [in worship]. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.

4 The LORD said to Moses, “Take all the leaders of the people [who have committed sin with the Moabites], and execute them in broad daylight before the LORD, so that the fierce anger of the LORD may turn away from Israel.”