Numbers 31:10

Then they burned all the cities where the Midianites had lived, as well as all their encampments,

Study Bible

Then they burned
The act of burning in ancient times was often a symbol of complete destruction and purification. The Hebrew root for "burned" is "שָׂרַף" (saraph), which conveys the idea of consuming by fire. In the context of the Israelites, burning was a method of eradicating idolatry and sin from the land. This act signifies a divine judgment and a cleansing process, ensuring that the influence of the Midianites' idolatrous practices would not corrupt the Israelites.

all the cities
The term "cities" in Hebrew is "עָרִים" (arim), referring to established settlements or fortified places. Historically, cities were centers of culture, commerce, and often idolatry. By destroying these cities, the Israelites were not only executing God's judgment but also removing potential strongholds of pagan influence. This action underscores the importance of spiritual purity and the need to eliminate sources of temptation and sin.

where the Midianites had lived
The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through Keturah, as noted in Genesis 25:1-2. They were a nomadic people often in conflict with Israel. The phrase "had lived" indicates a past tense, suggesting that the Midianites' presence and influence were to be completely eradicated. This reflects the biblical principle of separating from ungodly influences to maintain holiness and obedience to God.

as well as all their encampments
The word "encampments" comes from the Hebrew "מַחֲנוֹת" (machanot), meaning temporary dwellings or camps. These were places of gathering and community life for the Midianites. By destroying the encampments, the Israelites were ensuring that no remnant of the Midianite culture or people would remain to lead them astray. This act serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in guarding against influences that can lead believers away from their faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Midianites
A nomadic tribe descended from Midian, a son of Abraham by Keturah. They were often in conflict with Israel and were involved in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, they are executing God's judgment on the Midianites.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was commanded by God to take vengeance on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into sin.

4. Cities and Encampments
The places where the Midianites lived, which were destroyed by fire as part of God's judgment.

5. Vengeance of the LORD
The divine retribution commanded by God against the Midianites for their seduction of Israel into sin.

Teaching Points

God's Holiness and Justice
God's command to destroy the Midianite cities underscores His holiness and intolerance of sin. It serves as a reminder that sin has serious consequences and that God's justice will prevail.

The Danger of Idolatry and Immorality
The Midianites led Israel into idolatry and immorality, which resulted in severe judgment. Believers must guard against influences that lead away from God.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in executing God's judgment on the Midianites demonstrates the importance of following God's commands, even when they are difficult.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of the Midianite cities serves as a warning of the destructive nature of sin and the importance of repentance and turning back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the destruction of the Midianite cities teach us about God's view of sin and idolatry?

2. How can we apply the lesson of obedience from this passage to our own lives today?

3. In what ways do we see the consequences of sin in our world, and how can we respond as Christians?

4. How does understanding the historical context of the Midianites enhance our comprehension of this passage?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where God commands His people to take action against sin, and what can we learn from them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:1-4
Provides background on the Midianites as descendants of Abraham, establishing their historical and familial connection to Israel.

Numbers 25:1-3
Describes the sin of Israel with the Moabite and Midianite women, which led to God's command for vengeance.

Deuteronomy 9:5
Explains that God's judgment on nations is due to their wickedness, not Israel's righteousness, providing context for the destruction of the Midianite cities.

Psalm 106:34-39
Reflects on Israel's failure to destroy the nations as commanded, leading to their own corruption, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands.