The Elders of Midian are mentioned in the Old Testament as leaders or representatives of the Midianite people, a nomadic tribe descended from Midian, one of Abraham's sons through Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). The Midianites inhabited the region east of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea, extending into the Arabian Peninsula. They were known for their pastoral lifestyle and trade activities, often interacting with neighboring tribes and nations, including the Israelites.

Biblical References:

The Elders of Midian are most notably mentioned in the context of the narrative involving Balaam, a prophet from Pethor. In Numbers 22, the Moabite king Balak, fearing the encroaching Israelites, sought the assistance of the Midianites. He sent messengers to Balaam to curse the Israelites, and these messengers included the elders of Midian:

"So the elders of Moab and Midian left, taking with them the fee for divination. They came to Balaam and relayed to him the words of Balak" (Numbers 22:7).

This passage highlights the political alliance between Moab and Midian against the Israelites, demonstrating the influence and authority of the Midianite elders in regional affairs. The elders' involvement in this diplomatic mission underscores their role as decision-makers and representatives of their people.

Role and Influence:

The Elders of Midian, like elders in other ancient Near Eastern cultures, were likely responsible for governance, legal decisions, and religious practices within their community. Their participation in the mission to Balaam suggests they held significant sway in Midianite society and were instrumental in forming alliances and making strategic decisions.

Conflict with Israel:

The Midianites, including their elders, are depicted as adversaries of Israel in several biblical accounts. Following the incident with Balaam, the Midianites, along with the Moabites, led Israel into idolatry and immorality at Peor, inciting God's wrath (Numbers 25:1-3). This event led to a divine command for Israel to take vengeance on the Midianites:

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people'" (Numbers 31:1-2).

In the subsequent battle, the Israelites, under Moses' leadership, defeated the Midianites, killing their kings and executing Balaam (Numbers 31:7-8). This conflict marked a significant turning point in Israel's journey to the Promised Land and demonstrated the consequences of opposing God's chosen people.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The Midianites, including their elders, played a complex role in the biblical narrative. While often portrayed as adversaries, they also had interactions with key biblical figures. Moses himself found refuge among the Midianites after fleeing Egypt, marrying Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, a Midianite priest (Exodus 2:15-21). This relationship highlights the multifaceted nature of Israelite-Midianite interactions, which included both conflict and cooperation.

In summary, the Elders of Midian were influential leaders within their society, involved in significant biblical events that shaped the history of Israel. Their actions, particularly in the alliance with Moab and the subsequent conflict with Israel, underscore the dynamic and often contentious relationships between the ancient Near Eastern peoples.