The command to attack the Midianites is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. This command is part of the narrative concerning the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their preparation to enter the Promised Land. The Midianites, a nomadic people, are depicted as adversaries of Israel, and their interactions with the Israelites are marked by conflict and divine judgment.

Biblical Context

The command to attack the Midianites is found in Numbers 31. This chapter follows the events of Numbers 25, where the Israelites fell into sin by engaging in idolatry and immorality with the Moabite and Midianite women. This led to a divine plague as a form of judgment against Israel. The Midianites, in particular, are held responsible for leading Israel into sin through the counsel of Balaam, a prophet who advised the Midianites to entice the Israelites into sin to bring about their downfall.

Divine Command

In Numbers 31:1-2 , the LORD speaks to Moses, saying, "Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people." This command is presented as an act of divine retribution against the Midianites for their role in seducing Israel into sin. The directive is clear: the Israelites are to execute God's judgment upon the Midianites.

Execution of the Command

Moses communicates the LORD's command to the people, and a contingent of 12,000 men, one thousand from each tribe, is assembled for the task (Numbers 31:3-5). Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, accompanies the troops, carrying the holy articles and the trumpets for signaling (Numbers 31:6). The Israelites wage war against the Midianites, and the LORD grants them victory. They kill all the Midianite males, including the five kings of Midian and Balaam son of Beor (Numbers 31:7-8).

Aftermath and Further Instructions

Following the battle, the Israelites capture the Midianite women and children and seize their livestock and goods as plunder. However, Moses is angered by the fact that the women were spared, as they were the ones who had led Israel into sin at Peor. Moses instructs the Israelites to kill every male child and every woman who had been with a man, sparing only the virgin girls (Numbers 31:14-18).

The spoils of war are then divided according to the LORD's instructions, with portions allocated to the warriors, the congregation, and the Levites (Numbers 31:25-30). The chapter concludes with the purification of the soldiers and the distribution of the plunder.

Theological Significance

The command to attack the Midianites underscores several theological themes present in the Old Testament. It highlights the holiness of God and His intolerance of idolatry and immorality among His people. The narrative also emphasizes the concept of divine justice and retribution, as the Midianites are punished for their role in leading Israel astray. Additionally, the event serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, wherein obedience to God's commands is paramount for the nation's well-being and success.

The account of the attack on the Midianites is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness with which God views the purity and faithfulness of His people.