Numbers 32:3

"Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon,

Study Bible

Ataroth
This name, meaning "crowns" in Hebrew, suggests a place of significance or authority. Historically, Ataroth was a city east of the Jordan River, indicating the region's fertility and strategic importance. The mention of Ataroth here reflects the Reubenites' desire for a land that symbolizes prosperity and leadership.

Dibon
Dibon, meaning "pining" or "wasting," was a Moabite city known for its fertile lands. Archaeological findings, such as the Mesha Stele, highlight Dibon's historical significance. The Reubenites' interest in Dibon underscores their desire for a land rich in resources and history.

Jazer
The name Jazer, meaning "helpful" or "assistance," indicates a place of support and sustenance. Jazer was known for its vineyards and agricultural productivity. The Reubenites' mention of Jazer reflects their practical considerations for a land that could sustain their livestock and families.

Nimrah
Nimrah, meaning "pure" or "clear," suggests a place of clarity and purity. This city, located near the Jordan River, was likely valued for its water resources. The Reubenites' inclusion of Nimrah highlights their need for essential resources to support their community.

Heshbon
Heshbon, meaning "stronghold" or "intelligence," was a significant Amorite city. Its strategic location made it a desirable possession. The Reubenites' mention of Heshbon indicates their strategic thinking and desire for a defensible and influential position.

Elealeh
The name Elealeh, meaning "God is ascending," suggests a place of spiritual significance. Located near Heshbon, Elealeh was known for its elevation and visibility. The Reubenites' interest in Elealeh reflects their desire for a land that not only provides materially but also holds spiritual importance.

Sebam
Sebam, also known as Sibmah, means "fragrance" or "spice." This city was renowned for its vineyards and wine production. The Reubenites' mention of Sebam underscores their appreciation for a land that offers both sustenance and luxury.

Nebo
Nebo, meaning "prophet" or "interpreter," was a city associated with the Moabite god of the same name. Its mention here reflects the cultural and religious interactions between the Israelites and neighboring peoples. The Reubenites' interest in Nebo suggests a desire to reclaim and redefine the land for the worship of Yahweh.

Beon
Beon, also known as Baal-meon, means "house of Baal." This city was associated with the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity. The Reubenites' inclusion of Beon in their request indicates their intention to transform a place of pagan worship into a land dedicated to the God of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ataroth
A city located east of the Jordan River, significant for its fertile land, which the tribes of Reuben and Gad desired for their livestock.

2. Dibon
Another city in the region of Moab, known for its strategic location and resources, making it attractive for settlement.

3. Jazer
A city with surrounding pasturelands, important for agricultural and livestock purposes.

4. Nimrah
A location noted for its water resources, essential for sustaining large herds.

5. Heshbon
A major city in the region, previously a stronghold of the Amorites, now sought by the Israelites for its strategic and economic value.

6. Elealeh
A city near Heshbon, known for its elevation and fertile surroundings.

7. Sebam
Also known as Sibmah, a place noted for its vineyards and agricultural productivity.

8. Nebo
A city near Mount Nebo, significant for its proximity to the Promised Land and its resources.

9. Beon
A lesser-known location, but part of the collective request by the tribes for settlement.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Stewardship
The tribes of Reuben and Gad recognized the value of the land for their livestock, emphasizing the need for responsible stewardship of resources God provides.

Seeking God's Will
Before settling, the tribes sought Moses' approval, illustrating the importance of seeking divine guidance and leadership in decision-making.

Community and Commitment
Their request included a commitment to support the other tribes in conquering the Promised Land, teaching the value of community and shared responsibility.

Balancing Desires with Duty
The tribes balanced their desire for fertile land with their duty to the larger community, a lesson in prioritizing collective goals over individual desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the tribes of Reuben and Gad about the importance of choosing where to settle or invest our resources today?

2. How does the request of these tribes to settle east of the Jordan relate to the concept of seeking God's will in our personal decisions?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of stewardship seen in Numbers 32:3 to our management of resources and responsibilities?

4. How does the commitment of the tribes to assist in the conquest of the Promised Land reflect the importance of community and mutual support in the church?

5. What are some modern-day examples of balancing personal desires with communal responsibilities, and how can we apply biblical principles to these situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 13
The request by the tribes of Reuben and Gad echoes Lot's choice of the fertile Jordan Valley, highlighting the importance of land for sustenance and prosperity.

Joshua 13
This passage details the division of the land among the tribes, including the territories east of the Jordan, providing context for the request in Numbers 32.

Deuteronomy 3
Moses recounts the victories over the Amorite kings, which set the stage for the Israelites' possession of these lands.