Judges 11:17

Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, 'Please let us pass through your land,' but the king of Edom would not listen. They also sent messengers to the king of Moab, but he would not consent. So Israel stayed in Kadesh.

Study Bible

Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying,
This phrase highlights the diplomatic approach Israel took in dealing with neighboring nations. The Israelites, led by Moses, sought peaceful passage through Edom, a land inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. This request reflects the historical kinship between Israel and Edom, as both nations descended from Isaac. The use of messengers indicates a formal and respectful approach, adhering to ancient Near Eastern customs of diplomacy.

‘Please let us pass through your land,’
The request to pass through Edom was practical, as it provided a direct route to the Promised Land. This plea underscores Israel's reliance on God’s promise and their journey towards Canaan. The request was humble and polite, showing Israel's intention to avoid conflict and respect Edom's sovereignty. This approach is consistent with God's instructions to Israel to avoid conflict with Edom (Deuteronomy 2:4-5).

but the king of Edom would not listen.
Edom's refusal to grant passage reflects the longstanding tension between the two nations, despite their shared ancestry. This decision forced Israel to take a longer, more arduous route. The refusal can be seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy given to Rebekah about the struggle between Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25:23). It also foreshadows future hostilities between Israel and Edom.

They also sent messengers to the king of Moab,
Israel's approach to Moab mirrors their strategy with Edom, seeking peaceful passage. Moab, descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew, had a complex relationship with Israel. This diplomatic effort shows Israel's consistent desire to avoid unnecessary conflict and adhere to God's guidance. Moab's location was strategic, and cooperation would have facilitated Israel's journey.

but he would not consent.
Moab's refusal, like Edom's, highlights the regional tensions and distrust towards Israel. This denial forced Israel to navigate around Moab, further delaying their journey. Moab's decision is significant, as it sets the stage for future interactions, including the story of Balaam and the eventual conflict with Moabite kings. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's plan, as Israel's detours were part of their divine testing and preparation.

So Israel stayed in Kadesh.
Kadesh was a significant location for Israel, serving as a base during their wilderness wanderings. It was here that key events occurred, such as the sending of the spies into Canaan and the rebellion of the Israelites. Staying in Kadesh represents a period of waiting and testing for Israel, emphasizing their dependence on God's timing and provision. This location also serves as a reminder of past failures and the need for faithfulness to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The collective name for the descendants of Jacob, also known as the Israelites. At this point in their history, they are journeying to the Promised Land.

2. Messengers
Representatives sent by Israel to communicate with the kings of Edom and Moab, seeking permission to pass through their lands.

3. King of Edom
The ruler of Edom, a nation descended from Esau, Jacob's brother. He refused Israel's request to pass through his territory.

4. King of Moab
The ruler of Moab, a nation descended from Lot, Abraham's nephew. He also denied Israel passage through his land.

5. Kadesh
A location where the Israelites stayed during their wilderness journey. It served as a significant encampment site during their wanderings.

Teaching Points

Respect for Boundaries
The Israelites' request to pass through Edom and Moab underscores the importance of respecting national boundaries and seeking peaceful resolutions.

Historical Tensions
The refusal by Edom and Moab highlights longstanding familial and national tensions, reminding us of the complexities in relationships that can span generations.

God's Sovereignty in Obstacles
Despite the refusals, God had a plan for Israel. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty when we face obstacles and closed doors.

Persistence in Faith
Israel's continued journey despite setbacks encourages believers to persist in faith, trusting that God will provide a way forward.

Diplomacy and Communication
The use of messengers illustrates the value of diplomacy and clear communication in resolving conflicts and seeking cooperation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the refusal of Edom and Moab to allow passage reflect the historical tensions between these nations and Israel? How can understanding these tensions help us in resolving conflicts today?

2. In what ways does the Israelites' experience in Kadesh teach us about waiting on God's timing and provision? Can you think of a personal situation where you had to wait on God?

3. How does the account of Israel's journey through hostile territories encourage us to trust in God's guidance when we face obstacles in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Israel's approach to diplomacy and communication with Edom and Moab? How can these lessons be applied in our interactions with others?

5. How do the events in Judges 11:17 connect with God's broader plan for Israel as seen in other parts of the Bible? How does this understanding impact our view of God's plan for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 20:14-21
Provides a detailed account of Israel's request to pass through Edom and the subsequent refusal, highlighting the tension between the two nations.

Deuteronomy 2:4-9
Offers further insight into God's instructions to Israel regarding their interactions with Edom and Moab, emphasizing respect for their territories.

Genesis 36:1-8
Describes the lineage of Esau, the ancestor of the Edomites, providing background on the historical relationship between Israel and Edom.