The Allure of the Seen: Settling for Less in Numbers 32

Executive Summary ✨

Numbers 32 presents a stark reminder of the human heart’s tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term obedience to God’s will. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, captivated by the fertile lands east of the Jordan River, request permission to settle there, a desire seemingly driven by their large herds and flocks. This request, though seemingly practical, reveals a deeper spiritual issue: a willingness to remain outside the Promised Land, a place of divine blessing and fulfillment. Moses, initially angered by their proposal, recognizes their motivation and eventually allows it, but only under the condition that they actively participate in the conquest of Canaan. The chapter serves as a cautionary tale against compromising on our spiritual calling, reminding us that true blessing lies in wholehearted commitment to God’s purposes, not settling for temporary comforts outside of His divine plan. The story underscores the importance of discerning between genuine needs and desires rooted in worldly attachments, urging us to seek God’s will above all else, embracing the challenges and blessings that come with following Him wholeheartedly. This narrative echoes through the ages, prompting us to examine our own motivations and ensure that our choices align with our ultimate destiny in Christ.

The book of Numbers often chronicles Israel’s journey of faith, fraught with challenges and temptations. Chapter 32 offers a poignant example of a critical decision point, highlighting the ever-present tension between immediate desires and long-term spiritual goals. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, witnessing the abundance of livestock-friendly lands east of the Jordan, make a request that reveals a deep-seated yearning for comfort and security, potentially at the expense of God’s greater plan for them. Let’s delve into the verses, exploring the historical context, theological implications, and practical applications of this pivotal narrative to us today.

Commentary Sections

Numbers 32:1 (KJV) Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place was a place for cattle;

Numbers 32:1 (NKJV) Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of livestock; and when they saw the land of Jazer and the land of Gilead, that indeed the region was a place for livestock,

The chapter opens by highlighting the reason for the tribes’ request: “a very great multitude of cattle.” The phrase speaks to a sense of material prosperity and an earthly focus. The lands of Jazer and Gilead, known for their fertile pastures, were particularly attractive for livestock grazing. This visual appeal, however, becomes a test of their spiritual priorities. Did they value material wealth over their covenant with God and their participation in the promised inheritance? The Coptic Orthodox tradition emphasizes detachment from earthly possessions, not because possessions are inherently evil, but because they can easily become idols that distract us from our relationship with God. Consider the words of St. Anthony the Great: “Ἀπέχου ἀπὸ πάντων, καὶ τηρήσεις σεαυτόν” (Apéchou apò pánton, kaì tiríseis seautón) – “Abstain from all things, and you will keep yourself.” (Anthony the Great, *Letters*, 1.5). We must be careful not to let our possessions possess us.

• Spiritual Application: Be mindful of the allure of material wealth. Don’t let possessions distract you from your ultimate goal of union with God. Seek contentment in Him, not in things. Ask yourself if your possessions are managing you, or if you’re managing your possessions.

Numbers 32:2 (KJV) The children of Gad and the children of Reuben came and spake unto Moses, and to Eleazar the priest, and unto the princes of the congregation, saying, Ataroth, and Dibon, and Jazer, and Nimrah, and Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Shebam, and Nebo, and Beon,

Numbers 32:2 (NKJV) The children of Gad and the children of Reuben came and spoke to Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the congregation, saying, “Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Shebam, Nebo, and Beon—

The names of the cities—Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, and others—paint a picture of a settled and perhaps even prosperous region *east* of the Jordan. These were locations previously conquered from the Amorites (Numbers 21:21-32). The fact that the tribes cite these specific cities indicates a familiarity with the land and a concrete plan to establish themselves there. They address Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders, demonstrating the seriousness of their request. They seek formal approval, recognizing the authority structure of the community. This highlights the importance of seeking godly counsel when making major life decisions. We see here that the tribes of Reuben and Gad are taking their time to approach leadership with a request which shows deference and respect.

• Spiritual Application: Seek wise counsel from spiritual leaders and mentors when making significant life decisions. Their guidance can provide valuable perspective and help you discern God’s will.

Numbers 32:3-5 (KJV) Wherefore, said they, if we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession; and bring us not over Jordan. And Moses said unto the children of Gad and to the children of Reuben, Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here? And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them?

Numbers 32:3-5 (NKJV) “the country which the Lord conquered before the congregation of Israel, is a land for livestock, and your servants have livestock.” Therefore,” they said, “if we have found favor in your sight, let this land be given to your servants as a possession; do not take us across the Jordan.” And Moses said to the children of Gad and the children of Reuben: “Shall your brethren go to war while you sit here? Now why will you discourage the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord has given them?

This is the crux of the matter. The tribes request permission to settle *outside* the Promised Land. Their rationale is that the land is suitable for their livestock. However, Moses sharply rebukes them, accusing them of discouraging their brethren. He reminds them of the negative consequences of their actions, potentially hindering the entire nation from entering the land God promised. The words “Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here?” resonate with a call to solidarity and shared responsibility. Moses expresses his concern for the morale of the whole nation of Israel, a clear indication that he is putting God’s plan above their own self interests. This speaks to the importance of considering the broader implications of our choices on others, particularly within the community of faith. The history of Moses, with God is an example of how we must first deny our own fleshly desires, or ideas, and instead, do God’s will.

• Spiritual Application: Prioritize the needs of the community over your own desires. Be willing to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of the greater good. Consider the impact of your choices on others.

Numbers 32:6-15 (KJV) And Moses said unto them, Shall your brethren go to war, and shall ye sit here? And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them? Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadeshbarnea to see the land. For when they went up unto the valley of Eshcol, and saw the land, they discouraged the heart of the children of Israel, that they should not go into the land which the LORD had given them. And the LORD’S anger was kindled the same time, and he sware, saying, Surely none of the men that came up out of Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob; because they have not wholly followed me: Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite, and Joshua the son of Nun: because they have wholly followed the LORD. And the LORD’S anger was kindled against Israel, and he made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until all the generation, that had done evil in the sight of the LORD, was consumed. And now ye are risen up in their stead, an increase of sinful men, to augment yet the fierce anger of the LORD toward Israel. For if ye turn away from following him, he will yet again leave them in the wilderness; and ye shall destroy all this people.

Numbers 32:6-15 (NKJV) Then Moses said to them: “Shall your brethren go to war while you sit here? Why do you discourage the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord has given them? Thus your fathers did when I sent them away from Kadesh Barnea to see the land. For when they went up to the Valley of Eshcol and saw the land, they discouraged the heart of the children of Israel so that they did not go into the land which the Lord had given them. So the Lord’s anger was aroused on that day, and He swore an oath, saying, ‘Surely none of the men who came up from Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land of which I swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, because they have not wholly followed Me, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh, the Kenizzite, and Joshua the son of Nun, for they have wholly followed the Lord.’ So the Lord’s anger was aroused against Israel, and He made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until all the generation that had done evil in His sight was consumed. And look! You have risen in their place, a brood of sinful men, to increase still more the fierce anger of the Lord against Israel. For if you turn away from following Him, He will leave them in the wilderness again, and you will destroy all these people.”

Moses draws a direct parallel between their request and the rebellion at Kadesh Barnea. He reminds them that their ancestors’ lack of faith in God’s promise led to forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Moses fears that their actions will repeat history, bringing further judgment upon the entire nation. This is a powerful warning against complacency and the dangers of prioritizing personal comfort over obedience to God’s call. The mention of Caleb and Joshua, who “wholly followed the LORD,” provides a stark contrast to the faithlessness of the previous generation. Their unwavering commitment serves as a model for how we should respond to God’s leading, even in the face of adversity. We must remember, however, that if we are willing to be obedient, and repent, God’s love is unconditional. This is the essence of the Orthodox faith, because God came into the world, took on flesh, and suffered to ensure a path to Him would be forged.

• Spiritual Application: Learn from the mistakes of the past. Don’t repeat the errors of previous generations by prioritizing comfort and security over obedience to God’s will. Strive to be like Caleb and Joshua, wholeheartedly following the Lord in all things. Seek repentance and forgiveness when you fall short.

Numbers 32:16-19 (KJV) And they came near unto him, and said, We will build sheepfolds here for our cattle, and cities for our little ones: But we ourselves will go ready armed before the children of Israel, until we have brought them unto their place: and our little ones shall dwell in the fenced cities because of the inhabitants of the land. We will not return unto our houses, until the children of Israel have inherited every man his inheritance. For we will not inherit with them on yonder side Jordan, or forward; because our inheritance is fallen to us on this side Jordan eastward.

Numbers 32:16-19 (NKJV) Then they came near to him and said: “We will build sheepfolds here for our livestock, and cities for our little ones. But we ourselves will be armed, ready to go before the children of Israel until we have brought them to their place; and our little ones will dwell in the fortified cities because of the inhabitants of the land. We will not return to our homes until the children of Israel have inherited their inheritances. We will not inherit with them on the other side of the Jordan, because our inheritance has fallen to us on this side of the Jordan eastward.”

The tribes of Reuben and Gad propose a compromise. They commit to actively participating in the conquest of Canaan, leading the way for their brethren, while their families and livestock remain behind in the fortified cities east of the Jordan. This shows a willingness to contribute to the overall mission, but still cling to their desired location. They demonstrate foresight by building fortified cities for their families, acknowledging the potential dangers of the region. However, the implication remains that their primary commitment is to their own comfort and security, with their participation in the conquest being a secondary consideration. We should strive to mirror this, not only to the world, but also to the House of God. It shows a sense of humility, while still standing on one’s own feet.

• Spiritual Application: Strive for balance between personal needs and community responsibilities. Be willing to contribute to the mission of the Church while also caring for your family. Don’t let personal desires overshadow your commitment to God and His people.

Numbers 32:20-27 (KJV) And Moses said unto them, If ye will do this thing, if ye will go armed before the LORD to war, And will go all of you armed over Jordan before the LORD, until he hath driven out his enemies from before him, And the land be subdued before the LORD: then afterward ye shall return, and be guiltless before the LORD, and before Israel; and this land shall be your possession before the LORD. But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out. Build you cities for your little ones, and folds for your sheep; and do that which hath proceeded out of your mouth. And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben spake unto Moses, saying, Thy servants will do as my lord commandeth. Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our cattle, shall remain there in the cities of Gilead: But thy servants will pass over, every man armed for war, before the LORD to battle, as my lord saith.

Numbers 32:20-27 (NKJV) Then Moses said to them: “If you do this thing, if you arm yourselves before the Lord for the war, and if all of you armed men cross over the Jordan before the Lord until He has driven out His enemies from before Him, and the land is subdued before the Lord, then afterward you may return and be blameless before the Lord and before Israel; and this land shall be your possession before the Lord. But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out. Build cities for your little ones and folds for your sheep, and do what has proceeded out of your mouth.” Then the children of Gad and the children of Reuben spoke to Moses, saying: “Your servants will do as my lord commands. Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our livestock will remain here in the cities of Gilead; but your servants will cross over, every man armed for war, before the Lord to battle, as my lord says.”

Moses accepts their proposal, but with a clear condition: they must actively participate in the conquest until the entire land is subdued. He emphasizes that their commitment must be “before the LORD,” highlighting the importance of sincerity and integrity. He warns them that failure to fulfill their promise would be a sin against God, with the inevitable consequence that “your sin will find you out.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God holds us accountable for our promises and actions. The tribes reaffirm their commitment, promising to fulfill Moses’ commands and actively participate in the conquest, while leaving their families and livestock in the fortified cities of Gilead. They are saying that they will fight until God has driven out the enemies. This is in line with the spiritual warfare we must perform in our own life, we must fight to drive out the enemy from our mind, body, and soul, through Christ!

• Spiritual Application: Be true to your word and fulfill your promises, especially those made to God. Act with integrity and sincerity in all your dealings. Remember that God holds you accountable for your actions.

Numbers 32:28-30 (KJV) So concerning them Moses commanded Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel: And Moses said unto them, If the children of Gad and the children of Reuben will pass with you over Jordan, every man armed to battle, before the LORD, and the land shall be subdued before you; then ye shall give them the land of Gilead for a possession: But if they will not pass over with you armed, they shall have possessions among you in the land of Canaan.

Numbers 32:28-30 (NKJV) So Moses commanded concerning them Eleazar the priest, Joshua the son of Nun, and the chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel. And Moses said to them: “If the children of Gad and the children of Reuben cross over the Jordan with you, every man armed for battle before the Lord, and the land is subdued before you, then you shall give them the land of Gilead as a possession. But if they do not cross over with you armed, they shall have possessions among you in the land of Canaan.”

Moses formalizes the agreement, instructing Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the tribal leaders to ensure that the tribes of Reuben and Gad fulfill their commitment. He establishes a clear condition: if they actively participate in the conquest, they will receive the land of Gilead as their inheritance. However, if they fail to do so, they will forfeit their claim to Gilead and receive land within Canaan alongside the other tribes. This highlights the importance of accountability and the consequences of broken promises. This shows Moses’ attention to detail and his commitment to justice, ensuring that all parties are held accountable for their commitments. He is not letting the tribes of Reuben and Gad off the hook, simply allowing them the land because they requested it, he is setting the expectations in place.

• Spiritual Application: Hold yourself and others accountable for commitments made to God and the community. Ensure that actions align with words. Remember that faithfulness is essential for receiving God’s blessings.

Numbers 32:31-42 (KJV) And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben answered, saying, As the LORD hath said unto thy servants, so will we do. We will pass over armed before the LORD into the land of Canaan, that the possession of our inheritance on this side Jordan may be ours. And Moses gave unto them, even to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, even the cities of the country round about. And the children of Gad built Dibon, and Ataroth, and Aroer, And Atrothshophan, and Jazer, and Jogbehah, And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan: fenced cities for sheepfolds. And the children of Reuben built Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Kirjathaim, And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded. And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went and smote the Amorites that were in Gilead, and took it, and possessed it. And Moses gave Gilead unto Machir the son of Manasseh; and he dwelt therein. And Jair the son of Manasseh went and took the small towns thereof, and called them Havothjair. And Nobah went and took Kenath, and the villages thereof, and called it Nobah, after his own name.

Numbers 32:31-42 (NKJV) Then the children of Gad and the children of Reuben answered, saying: “As the Lord has said to your servants, so we will do. We will cross over armed before the Lord into the land of Canaan, and the possession of our inheritance beyond the Jordan shall be ours.” So Moses gave to them—to the children of Gad, to the children of Reuben, and to half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph—the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land with its cities and the territories of the surrounding country. And the children of Gad built Dibon, Ataroth, Aroer, Atroth Shophan, Jazer, Jogbehah, Beth Nimrah, and Beth Haran—fortified cities for sheepfolds. And the children of Reuben built Heshbon, Elealeh, Kirjathaim, Nebo, Baal Meon (their names being changed), and Shibmah; and they gave other names to the cities which they built. And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went and attacked the Amorites who were in Gilead, and took it, and dispossessed them. So Moses gave Gilead to Machir the son of Manasseh, and he dwelt in it. Also Jair the son of Manasseh went and took its small towns, and called them Havoth Jair. Then Nobah went and took Kenath and its villages, and he called it Nobah, after his own name.

The tribes reiterate their commitment, solidifying their agreement with Moses. He then grants them the land of Gilead, along with half the tribe of Manasseh, after they conquered the kingdoms of Sihon and Og. The chapter concludes with a detailed account of the tribes rebuilding and renaming the cities within their territory. This demonstrates their active participation in establishing themselves in their new homeland. However, it’s important to note that the narrative focuses on their earthly inheritance, rather than their spiritual growth or connection to the Tabernacle (the place of worship). This subtle emphasis serves as a reminder that even when we fulfill our commitments, we must be careful not to lose sight of our ultimate spiritual goal, our heavenly inheritance in Christ. This is precisely why we must, as the Lord has said, take up our cross every day and follow Him, not with our eyes, but with our hearts. Consider dOHost pricing to ensure your online journey is secure and reliable.

• Spiritual Application: Remember that earthly blessings are temporary and should not be our primary focus. Strive for spiritual growth and union with God, which is the true and lasting inheritance.

FAQ ❓

• Q: Was it wrong for the tribes of Reuben and Gad to want to settle east of the Jordan?

  It wasn’t inherently wrong, but their motivation was questionable. Their focus on material wealth and comfort over participation in the Promised Land revealed a potential spiritual deficiency. Their initial request prioritized their livestock over their commitment to God’s plan for the entire nation of Israel, which would have caused others to fall into doubt. However, they are considered blessed as they did make the commitment.

• Q: What does this story teach us about balancing personal desires and God’s will?

  It teaches us that we must prioritize God’s will above our own desires. While it’s not wrong to have personal preferences, we should always be willing to sacrifice them for the sake of God’s plan and the well-being of others. In the end, it is better to align with God than anything else.

• Q: How can we apply the lessons of Numbers 32 to our lives today?

  We can apply these lessons by examining our own motivations and ensuring that our choices align with our spiritual goals. We should be wary of the allure of material possessions and prioritize our relationship with God above all else. Furthermore, seek guidance from the church fathers to truly see a path to the Lord.

Conclusion ✨

Numbers 32 is a multifaceted narrative. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, faced with a choice between comfort and commitment, negotiate a compromise that allows them to settle outside the Promised Land while still contributing to its conquest. Moses, initially hesitant, recognizes their genuine commitment and grants their request under strict conditions. The chapter serves as a cautionary tale against prioritizing earthly comforts over spiritual goals. While the tribes fulfill their promise, their initial desire to settle east of the Jordan raises questions about their ultimate priorities. It reminds us that true blessing lies in wholehearted commitment to God’s purposes, not settling for temporary comforts outside of His divine plan. It also urges us to examine our own motivations and ensure that our choices align with our ultimate destiny in Christ. This story, a reflection of human nature’s constant struggle between the tangible and the eternal, calls us to seek that “land flowing with milk and honey” – the Kingdom of God – with unwavering faith, leaving behind the allure of fleeting pleasures and embracing the challenging yet rewarding path of discipleship. Let us not be tempted to settle for less, but strive for the fullness of God’s promise in our lives.

Tags

Numbers 32, Reuben, Gad, Promised Land, Obedience, Faith, Commitment, Spiritual Priorities, Moses, Coptic Orthodox

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Explore Numbers 32: The Tribes of Reuben and Gad choosing comfort over commitment. A Coptic Orthodox reflection on faith, obedience, and seeking God’s true Promised Land.