Numbers 32:10

So the anger of the LORD was kindled that day, and He swore an oath, saying,

Study Bible

So the LORD’s anger
The phrase "the LORD’s anger" refers to the righteous indignation of God. In Hebrew, the word for anger here is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean "nostril" or "face," indicating a flaring of the nostrils as a metaphor for anger. This anthropomorphic expression helps us understand the intensity of God's displeasure. In the context of Numbers, God's anger is often a response to the Israelites' disobedience and lack of faith. This serves as a reminder of God's holiness and justice, emphasizing that He is not indifferent to sin.

was kindled
The term "kindled" suggests a fire being ignited, which is a common biblical metaphor for anger. The Hebrew root "חָרָה" (charah) conveys the idea of burning or being hot. This imagery underscores the seriousness of the situation, as God's anger is not a fleeting emotion but a profound response to covenant unfaithfulness. It serves as a warning to the Israelites and to us today about the consequences of turning away from God's commands.

that day
"That day" refers to a specific moment in time when God's anger was provoked. In the narrative of Numbers, this is a pivotal moment when the tribes of Reuben and Gad request to settle east of the Jordan, rather than entering the Promised Land. This phrase highlights the immediacy and urgency of God's response to their actions. It reminds us that our choices have immediate spiritual consequences and that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people.

and He swore an oath
The act of swearing an oath by God is significant. In Hebrew, the word "שָׁבַע" (shaba) means to swear or to take an oath. This is a solemn declaration that underscores the certainty and seriousness of God's pronouncement. When God swears an oath, it is an unbreakable promise, reflecting His unchanging nature and faithfulness. This phrase assures us that God's words are trustworthy and that He will fulfill His promises, whether they are blessings for obedience or judgments for disobedience.

saying
The word "saying" introduces the content of God's oath. It is a transition that prepares the reader for the divine pronouncement that follows. In the biblical narrative, when God speaks, it is an authoritative declaration that demands attention and response. This serves as a reminder of the power and authority of God's Word, which is living and active, and calls us to listen and obey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whose anger is kindled due to the disobedience and lack of faith of the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land but have shown reluctance and disobedience.

3. The Promised Land (Canaan)
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which the Israelites are preparing to enter.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who communicates God's commands and judgments to the people.

5. The Transjordan Tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh)
These tribes requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, which led to the events surrounding God's anger.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Disobedience
God's anger is a response to the Israelites' disobedience, reminding us that our actions have consequences and that God takes sin seriously.

The Importance of Faith
The Israelites' lack of faith in God's promises led to His anger. We are called to trust in God's promises and His faithfulness, even when circumstances seem challenging.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's oath and judgment are just and righteous. We must understand that God's judgments are based on His holiness and justice.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' role in communicating God's commands highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding people according to God's will.

Learning from the Past
The events in Numbers 32 serve as a historical lesson for us to learn from the mistakes of the past and to strive for obedience and faithfulness in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the anger of the LORD in Numbers 32:10 teach us about God's character and His view of sin?

2. How can we apply the lesson of the Israelites' lack of faith to our own lives when facing difficult situations?

3. In what ways does the New Testament use the account of the Israelites' disobedience as a warning for believers today?

4. How can we ensure that we are not hardening our hearts against God's commands and promises?

5. What role does godly leadership play in helping a community remain faithful to God's instructions, and how can we support our leaders in this task?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 1:34-36
This passage recounts the same event, emphasizing the consequences of Israel's lack of faith and God's oath that the disobedient generation would not enter the Promised Land.

Hebrews 3:7-11
The New Testament reflects on this event as a warning against hardening one's heart and missing out on God's rest due to unbelief.

Psalm 95:10-11
This Psalm references the same historical event, highlighting God's displeasure with the Israelites' disobedience and lack of trust.