Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba are mentioned in the Old Testament as Midianite leaders who played a significant role during the time of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. These figures are primarily noted in the context of the Israelites' conflicts with the Midianites, as recorded in the Book of Numbers.

Biblical Context:

The account of Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba is found in Numbers 31. The Midianites, along with the Moabites, had previously enticed the Israelites into idolatry and immorality at Peor, leading to God's judgment upon Israel (Numbers 25). As a result, God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel astray.

In Numbers 31:1-3, the LORD instructs Moses: "Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people." Moses then sends a thousand men from each tribe to war against Midian, led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, who carried the holy articles and the trumpets for signaling.

The Defeat of Midian:

The Israelites successfully defeat the Midianites, and in the process, they kill the five kings of Midian: Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba. Numbers 31:8 states, "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."

These leaders are significant because their defeat represents the judgment of God against those who opposed His people and led them into sin. The inclusion of Balaam's death in the same passage underscores the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against those who sought to curse Israel, as Balaam had been hired by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites (Numbers 22-24).

Zur's Notable Mention:

Among the five kings, Zur is specifically noted as the father of Cozbi, a Midianite woman who was involved in the incident at Peor. Cozbi's relationship with an Israelite man, Zimri, led to a public act of immorality that was stopped by Phinehas, resulting in a plague being halted (Numbers 25:6-15). This connection highlights the personal and familial ties that contributed to the broader conflict between Israel and Midian.

Historical and Theological Significance:

The narrative of Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba serves as a reminder of the consequences of leading God's people into sin and the seriousness with which God defends His covenant community. The defeat of these Midianite leaders is a testament to God's faithfulness in protecting Israel and executing justice against those who oppose His purposes.

In the broader biblical narrative, the account of these Midianite kings illustrates the ongoing spiritual battle between the forces of God and those who resist His will. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over all opposition, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.