Numbers 31:46

and 16,000 people.

Study Bible

and
The conjunction "and" serves as a connective tissue in the narrative, linking the previous verses with the current one. It signifies continuity and completeness in the account of the spoils taken from the Midianites. In the broader biblical context, "and" often connects actions and events that are part of God's unfolding plan. Here, it ties the enumeration of the spoils to the divine instructions given to Moses, emphasizing the meticulous obedience to God's commands.

16,000
The number "16,000" is significant in its specificity, reflecting the detailed record-keeping and the importance of order in the Israelite community. Numbers in the Bible often carry symbolic weight, and while the text does not explicitly assign symbolic meaning to this number, it underscores the magnitude of the victory and the abundance of God's provision. Historically, such precise figures highlight the thoroughness with which the Israelites carried out God's instructions, ensuring that nothing was overlooked.

people
The term "people" here refers to the captives taken from the Midianites. In Hebrew, the word often used is "nephesh," which can mean soul, person, or life. This reflects the biblical view of individuals as living beings with inherent value. The mention of "people" in this context reminds us of the human cost of conflict and the complex moral and ethical considerations in warfare. It also points to the broader narrative of God's justice and mercy, as these captives would become part of the Israelite community, subject to the laws and covenant of Israel. This inclusion serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to bring people into His fold, even through challenging circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Midianites
A nomadic tribe that led Israel into idolatry and immorality, resulting in God's command for their destruction.

3. Israelites
The people of God, who were instructed to carry out God's judgment against the Midianites.

4. Plunder
The goods and people taken by the Israelites from the Midianites, including the sixteen thousand people mentioned in this verse.

5. God's Command
The directive given to Moses and the Israelites to execute judgment on the Midianites as a consequence of their actions against Israel.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The destruction of the Midianites serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of leading others into sin. Sin is not only personal but can have communal repercussions.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' actions demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's directives, even when they are difficult or involve judgment.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God's judgment is severe, it is also just. Understanding God's justice helps us appreciate His mercy and the grace offered through Christ.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' leadership in executing God's command highlights the responsibility of leaders to guide their people in righteousness and obedience.

The Importance of Purity
The incident underscores the need for spiritual and moral purity among God's people, avoiding alliances or influences that lead away from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Midianites in Numbers 31:46 reflect the consequences of sin and idolatry in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands, even when they are challenging or counter-cultural?

3. How does understanding God's justice in the Old Testament help us appreciate His mercy and grace in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from Moses' leadership in this passage that can be applied to spiritual leadership today?

5. How can we maintain spiritual and moral purity in a world that often leads us away from God's standards?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:1-4
Provides background on the Midianites, who were descendants of Abraham through Keturah, showing the long-standing connection between the Israelites and Midianites.

Numbers 25:1-3
Describes the sin of Israel with the Moabite women, which was instigated by the Midianites, leading to God's command for their destruction.

Deuteronomy 20:10-18
Outlines the laws of warfare for Israel, including the treatment of conquered peoples, which provides context for the actions taken in Numbers 31.

1 Samuel 15:1-3
Relates to God's command to Saul to destroy the Amalekites, showing a pattern of divine judgment against nations that lead Israel into sin.

Romans 6:23
Connects to the theme of sin and its consequences, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the need for divine justice.