Numbers 27:13

After you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people, as your brother Aaron was;

Study Bible

And when you have seen it
This phrase refers to Moses being granted a view of the Promised Land from Mount Nebo. The Hebrew root for "seen" is "ra'ah," which means to perceive or consider. This moment is significant as it represents a culmination of Moses' leadership journey. Despite not entering the land himself, God allows Moses to witness the fulfillment of His promise to the Israelites. This act of seeing is both a privilege and a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience, as Moses was barred from entering due to striking the rock at Meribah (Numbers 20:12). It underscores the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

you too will be gathered to your people
The phrase "gathered to your people" is a Hebrew idiom for death, suggesting a reunion with ancestors. The Hebrew word "asaph" means to gather or collect, indicating a peaceful transition to the afterlife. This reflects the belief in an afterlife where the faithful are united with their forebears. For Moses, this is a moment of divine assurance that his life's work was not in vain, and he will join the patriarchs who preceded him. It is a comforting reminder of the continuity of God's covenant with His people, transcending generations.

as Aaron your brother was
Aaron's death is recorded in Numbers 20:28, where he is gathered to his people on Mount Hor. The mention of Aaron serves as a reminder of the shared journey and leadership between the brothers. Both Moses and Aaron were instrumental in leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. The parallel in their deaths signifies the completion of their divine mission. Historically, Aaron's priestly role and Moses' prophetic leadership were foundational to the establishment of Israel's identity as God's chosen people. This phrase highlights the theme of divine justice and mercy, as both leaders face the consequences of their actions yet are honored in their passing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses is the leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this verse, God is speaking to Moses about his impending death.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and the first high priest of Israel. Aaron's death is referenced as a parallel to Moses' upcoming death, emphasizing the end of an era of leadership.

3. Mount Nebo
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, it is the place where Moses will view the Promised Land before his death, as described in the surrounding context.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses is allowed to see it but not enter it due to his disobedience at Meribah.

5. The Israelites
The people of God whom Moses has led for forty years. Their journey to the Promised Land is a central theme in the Book of Numbers.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Moses' inability to enter the Promised Land serves as a reminder of the seriousness of disobedience to God. Even great leaders are not exempt from the consequences of their actions.

The Faithfulness of God
Despite Moses' disobedience, God remains faithful to His promises. He allows Moses to see the Promised Land, underscoring His grace and faithfulness.

Leadership Transition
The transition from Moses to Joshua highlights the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership. God’s work continues beyond any single individual.

The Hope of Reunion
The phrase "gathered to your people" suggests a hope of reunion with those who have gone before, offering comfort in the face of death.

The Vision of the Promised Land
Seeing the Promised Land symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promises. It encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate plan, even if they do not see its completion in their lifetime.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Moses' experience teach us about the importance of obedience to God, and how can we apply this lesson in our daily lives?

2. How does the concept of being "gathered to your people" provide comfort and hope for believers today?

3. In what ways can we prepare the next generation for leadership within our families, churches, and communities, as seen in the transition from Moses to Joshua?

4. How does the faithfulness of God, despite human failure, encourage us in our walk with Him?

5. Reflect on a time when you saw a glimpse of God's promises fulfilled in your life. How did that experience strengthen your faith and trust in Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34
This chapter provides a detailed account of Moses' death on Mount Nebo, fulfilling the prophecy given in Numbers 27:13.

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, where Moses intercedes for the people, highlights his role as a mediator, similar to his role in leading the Israelites to the edge of the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11
This chapter speaks of the faith of Moses, emphasizing his role as a faithful servant of God, even though he did not enter the Promised Land.