Numbers 25:3

So Israel joined in worshiping Baal of Peor, and the anger of the LORD burned against them.

Study Bible

So Israel
The phrase "So Israel" refers to the collective nation of Israel, God's chosen people, who were delivered from Egypt and were on their journey to the Promised Land. This highlights the communal aspect of their identity and actions. In Hebrew, "Israel" (יִשְׂרָאֵל, Yisra'el) means "God prevails" or "He who struggles with God," reflecting their covenant relationship with God. The use of "Israel" here underscores the gravity of their actions, as it was not just individuals but the nation as a whole that was implicated in this sin.

joined in worshiping
The Hebrew root for "joined" is "צָמַד" (tsamad), which means to bind or attach oneself. This indicates a deliberate and intimate association with the worship practices of Baal, suggesting a betrayal of their exclusive covenant with Yahweh. The act of "worshiping" (שָׁחָה, shachah) involves bowing down or prostrating oneself, signifying submission and reverence. This phrase highlights the severity of Israel's apostasy, as they not only participated in pagan rituals but also submitted themselves to a foreign deity.

Baal of Peor
"Baal" (בַּעַל, Ba'al) was a common name for various local deities in the ancient Near East, often associated with fertility and storms. "Peor" refers to a location, possibly a mountain or a region, where this particular manifestation of Baal was worshiped. The worship of Baal was characterized by immoral and idolatrous practices, which were in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh. This phrase emphasizes the spiritual adultery of Israel, as they turned from the true God to a false idol, violating the first commandment.

and the LORD’s anger
The "LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His special relationship with Israel. The "anger" (אַף, aph) of the LORD is a righteous and holy response to sin and rebellion. In the Hebrew context, this word can also mean "nostrils" or "face," metaphorically describing the flaring of nostrils in anger. This phrase conveys the seriousness of Israel's sin and the just nature of God's response, as His holiness cannot tolerate idolatry and unfaithfulness.

burned against them
The imagery of God's anger "burning" (חָרָה, charah) against Israel is vivid and powerful, suggesting an intense and consuming wrath. This reflects the covenantal breach and the consequences of Israel's actions. The historical context reveals that God's anger often led to judgment and discipline, intended to bring His people back to repentance and restoration. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the need for faithfulness to His covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The nation chosen by God, who at this time was journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land. They were called to be a holy people, set apart for God's purposes.

2. Baal of Peor
A local deity worshiped by the Moabites and Midianites. The worship of Baal often involved immoral practices, which were contrary to the laws given by God to Israel.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who had delivered them from Egypt and given them His laws. His anger is kindled by Israel's idolatry and unfaithfulness.

4. Moab
The region where the Israelites were encamped. The Moabites, along with the Midianites, enticed Israel into idolatry and immorality.

5. The Plague
A divine judgment that came upon Israel as a result of their sin, demonstrating God's holiness and intolerance of idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can be anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has serious consequences, both spiritually and physically. The Israelites' sin led to God's anger and a devastating plague. We must take sin seriously and seek repentance.

The Call to Holiness
As God's people, we are called to be holy and set apart. This requires vigilance and a commitment to God's commands, resisting the temptations of the world.

God's Righteous Anger
God's anger is a response to sin and unfaithfulness. Understanding His righteous anger helps us appreciate His holiness and the seriousness of our covenant relationship with Him.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him. Disobedience leads to separation and judgment, while obedience brings blessing and favor.

Bible Study Questions

1. What modern "idols" might we be tempted to worship, and how can we guard against them in our daily lives?

2. How does the incident at Peor illustrate the importance of community accountability in maintaining faithfulness to God?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains pure and focused solely on God, avoiding the influence of worldly practices?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Israel's failure at Peor to our personal walk with God, especially in resisting temptation?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a deeper understanding of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin in our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The first and second commandments, which prohibit the worship of other gods and the making of idols, directly relate to Israel's sin in Numbers 25:3.

Deuteronomy 4:3-4
Moses later reminds Israel of the incident at Peor, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of idolatry.

1 Corinthians 10:8
Paul references this event as a warning to the Corinthian church, illustrating the dangers of idolatry and immorality.