The Battle against Midian is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, primarily found in the Book of Numbers, chapter 31. This battle was a divinely commanded military campaign led by Moses against the Midianites, a nomadic people who had become adversaries of Israel.

Background and Context

The Midianites were descendants of Midian, a son of Abraham by his concubine Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). They were a nomadic tribe that inhabited the region east of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea. The Midianites are often associated with the Moabites, as seen in the narrative of Balaam, where the two groups conspired to lead Israel into sin (Numbers 22-25).

The immediate cause of the battle was the Midianite involvement in seducing the Israelites into idolatry and immorality at Peor, as recorded in Numbers 25. This incident provoked the wrath of God, resulting in a plague that killed 24,000 Israelites. The Midianites, through the counsel of Balaam, had enticed the Israelites to worship Baal of Peor, leading to this divine judgment.

Divine Command and Preparation

In response to the transgression at Peor, God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites. Numbers 31:1-2 states, "The LORD said to Moses, 'Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people.'" This command was both a judgment against Midian and a purification for Israel.

Moses instructed the Israelites to prepare for battle, selecting a thousand men from each of the twelve tribes, totaling 12,000 warriors. Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, accompanied the army, carrying the holy articles and the trumpets for signaling (Numbers 31:6).

The Battle and Its Outcome

The Israelites launched a surprise attack on the Midianites, resulting in a decisive victory. Numbers 31:7-8 records, "They waged war against Midian, as the LORD had commanded Moses, and they killed every male. Among the slain were Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba—the five kings of Midian. They also killed Balaam son of Beor with the sword."

The Israelites captured the Midianite women and children, seized their livestock and goods, and burned their cities and encampments. However, Moses was angered when he discovered that the women had been spared, as they had been instrumental in leading Israel into sin. He ordered that all the male children and non-virgin women be killed, while the virgin girls were spared (Numbers 31:14-18).

Division of Spoils and Purification

The spoils of war, including livestock and captives, were divided among the soldiers and the rest of the congregation. A portion was also given to the Levites as a tribute to the LORD. The soldiers who had fought in the battle underwent a purification process, as did the captives and the spoils (Numbers 31:19-24).

Theological Significance

The Battle against Midian serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of idolatry and immorality. It underscores the holiness of God and His demand for purity among His people. The narrative also highlights the role of divine justice and the importance of obedience to God's commands.

This event is a testament to God's faithfulness in protecting and preserving Israel, even as He disciplines them. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory over sin and evil through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who calls His followers to live lives of holiness and devotion.