The biblical account of the instructions given to the spies is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 13. This narrative details the directives given by Moses to a group of Israelite men tasked with scouting the land of Canaan, the Promised Land, which God had assured to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Context and Purpose

The event occurs during the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a pivotal moment in their history. After the exodus from Egypt and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, the Israelites encamped in the Wilderness of Paran. It is here that the LORD instructed Moses to send men to explore Canaan. The purpose of this reconnaissance mission was to gather information about the land and its inhabitants, which would aid in the Israelites' eventual conquest and settlement.

Selection of the Spies

Moses selected twelve men, one from each tribe of Israel, to undertake this mission. These men were leaders within their respective tribes, chosen for their ability to assess and report on the conditions of the land. Among them were notable figures such as Caleb from the tribe of Judah and Hoshea (Joshua) from the tribe of Ephraim.

Specific Instructions

Moses provided the spies with detailed instructions, as recorded in Numbers 13:17-20 :

"When Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, he told them, 'Go up through the Negev and into the hill country. See what the land is like and whether its people are strong or weak, few or many. Is the land where they live good or bad? Are the cities where they dwell open camps or fortifications? Is the soil fertile or unproductive? Are there trees in it or not? Be courageous, and bring back some of the fruit of the land.'"

These instructions highlight several key areas of interest: the strength and number of the inhabitants, the quality of the land, the nature of the cities, and the fertility of the soil. Moses also encouraged the spies to bring back samples of the land's produce, which would serve as tangible evidence of its bounty.

Significance of the Mission

The mission of the spies was significant for several reasons. It was an act of obedience to God's command, demonstrating the Israelites' reliance on divine guidance. The reconnaissance was also a practical measure, providing the Israelites with strategic information necessary for their future military campaigns. Furthermore, the mission tested the faith and trust of the Israelites in God's promise, as the report of the spies would later reveal.

Outcome and Report

Upon their return, the spies presented their findings to Moses and the congregation of Israel. They confirmed the land's richness, describing it as "a land flowing with milk and honey" (Numbers 13:27). However, ten of the spies expressed fear and doubt, focusing on the strength of the inhabitants and the fortified cities, which led to a crisis of faith among the Israelites. Only Caleb and Joshua stood firm in their trust in God's promise, urging the people to proceed with confidence.

The instructions for the spies and the subsequent events underscore themes of faith, obedience, and the challenges of trusting in God's promises amidst daunting circumstances.