The command to explore Canaan is a significant event in the history of Israel, marking a pivotal moment in their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Numbers, chapter 13, and is a critical episode in the narrative of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings.

Biblical Context

After the Exodus from Egypt and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness toward the land promised to their forefathers—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Lord had assured them of a land "flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8), a place of abundance and blessing. As they approached the southern border of Canaan, God instructed Moses to send men to explore the land.

The Command

The command to explore Canaan is found in Numbers 13:1-2 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Send out for yourself men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites. Send one leader from each of their fathers’ tribes.'" This directive was not merely a reconnaissance mission but a divine mandate to assess the land that God was giving to His people.

The Spies

Moses selected twelve men, one from each tribe, to carry out this task. Among them were notable figures such as Caleb from the tribe of Judah and Hoshea (Joshua) from the tribe of Ephraim. Numbers 13:3-16 lists these men, emphasizing their leadership roles within their respective tribes.

The Exploration

The spies were instructed to evaluate the land's fertility, the strength and number of its inhabitants, the fortifications of its cities, and the presence of any natural resources. Numbers 13:17-20 records Moses' specific instructions: "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."

The Report

After forty days of exploration, the spies returned with a mixed report. They confirmed the land's richness, bringing back a cluster of grapes so large that it had to be carried on a pole between two men (Numbers 13:23). However, ten of the spies focused on the formidable inhabitants and fortified cities, inciting fear among the Israelites. Numbers 13:28-29 states, "Nevertheless, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We even saw the descendants of Anak there."

The Faithful Minority

In contrast, Caleb and Joshua demonstrated faith in God's promise. Caleb silenced the people and declared, "We must go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly conquer it!" (Numbers 13:30). Their confidence was rooted in their trust in God's power and His covenant promises.

The Aftermath

The negative report led to widespread panic and rebellion among the Israelites, resulting in severe consequences. The community's lack of faith and disobedience provoked God's anger, leading to a decree that the current generation would not enter the Promised Land, except for Caleb and Joshua (Numbers 14:29-30).

Theological Significance

The command to explore Canaan underscores themes of faith, obedience, and the consequences of unbelief. It highlights the importance of trusting in God's promises despite daunting circumstances. The episode serves as a reminder of the necessity of faithfulness and the dangers of allowing fear to override divine assurance.