Numbers 31:16

"Look, these women caused the sons of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to turn unfaithfully against the LORD at Peor, so that the plague struck the congregation of the LORD.

Study Bible

Yet they are the ones
This phrase identifies the specific individuals responsible for a significant transgression. In the context of Numbers 31, these are the Midianite women who, under Balaam's counsel, led the Israelites astray. The Hebrew root for "they" (הֵנָּה, hennah) emphasizes a direct accusation, pointing to the culpability of these women in the spiritual downfall of Israel. This highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing the sources of temptation and sin within a community.

at Balaam’s advice
Balaam, a prophet who initially appeared to be obedient to God, ultimately succumbed to greed and gave counsel that led to Israel's sin. The Hebrew name "Balaam" (בִּלְעָם, Bil'am) can be interpreted as "not of the people" or "destroyer of the people," reflecting his role in leading Israel into sin. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of false prophets and the destructive power of ungodly counsel.

incited the Israelites to unfaithfulness
The phrase "incited... to unfaithfulness" (הִסִּיתוּ, hissitu) indicates a deliberate act of leading someone into sin. The root of "incited" suggests a provocation or enticement, emphasizing the active role the Midianite women played in causing Israel to betray their covenant with God. This highlights the vulnerability of God's people to external influences and the need for vigilance in maintaining faithfulness.

against the LORD
This phrase underscores the gravity of the Israelites' sin, as it was not merely a social or moral failing but a direct affront to God Himself. The Hebrew word for "LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is the sacred, covenantal name of God, reminding the reader of the personal relationship between God and Israel. Sin against the LORD is a breach of this sacred relationship, with serious consequences.

in the Peor incident
The "Peor incident" refers to the events at Baal Peor, where the Israelites engaged in idolatry and immorality with the Moabite women (Numbers 25). The name "Peor" (פְּעוֹר, Pe'or) is associated with the Moabite god Baal, symbolizing the spiritual adultery of Israel. This incident serves as a warning of the dangers of syncretism and the seductive power of pagan practices.

so that the plague struck
The "plague" (מַגֵּפָה, maggephah) was a divine judgment that resulted in the death of 24,000 Israelites (Numbers 25:9). This word conveys the severity of God's response to sin, illustrating the consequences of disobedience. It serves as a sobering reminder of God's holiness and the seriousness with which He views sin.

the congregation of the LORD
The "congregation" (עֲדַת, adat) refers to the assembly of Israel, God's chosen people. This term emphasizes the collective identity and responsibility of the Israelites as a community in covenant with God. The phrase "of the LORD" reiterates their special status and the expectation of holiness. The incident at Peor serves as a lesson on the impact of individual sin on the entire community and the need for communal accountability and repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet who, despite being used by God to bless Israel, advised the Moabites to lead Israel into sin.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were led astray into idolatry and immorality at Peor.

3. Peor Incident
A significant event where the Israelites were seduced into worshiping Baal of Peor, leading to a divine plague.

4. Moabites
The people who, under Balaam's counsel, enticed the Israelites into sin.

5. Plague
A divine punishment that struck the Israelites as a consequence of their unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Balaam's advice led to a compromise of Israel's faith, showing how small concessions can lead to significant spiritual downfall.

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
The plague that struck Israel serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
Believers must remain vigilant against influences that lead them away from God, just as the Israelites were led astray.

God's Call to Holiness
The incident at Peor underscores God's call for His people to live holy and separate lives, avoiding the enticements of the world.

Repentance and Restoration
Despite their failure, the Israelites were given opportunities to repent and be restored, illustrating God's mercy and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the advice of Balaam in Numbers 31:16 illustrate the subtlety of spiritual compromise?

2. In what ways can the Peor incident serve as a warning for modern believers regarding idolatry and immorality?

3. How does the New Testament reference to Balaam's teaching in Revelation 2:14 apply to the church today?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God in a world full of distractions and temptations?

5. How does the concept of repentance and restoration in the aftermath of the Peor incident encourage us in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 2:14
This verse references Balaam's teaching as a warning to the church in Pergamum, highlighting the danger of compromising with idolatry and immorality.

1 Corinthians 10:8
Paul warns the Corinthians by recalling the incident at Peor, urging them to avoid sexual immorality.

Deuteronomy 4:3-4
Moses reminds the Israelites of the consequences of the Peor incident, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God.