Numbers 31:34

61,000 donkeys,

Study Bible

61,000 donkeys
In the context of Numbers 31, the Israelites are returning from a victorious battle against the Midianites, a people who had led them into idolatry and immorality. The spoils of war are being counted, and among them are 61,000 donkeys. Donkeys were valuable animals in ancient times, serving as beasts of burden and transportation. Their mention here underscores the wealth and resources acquired from the Midianites.

The large number of donkeys indicates the extent of the Midianite wealth and the magnitude of the victory God granted to Israel. In biblical times, donkeys were often associated with peace and service, contrasting with horses, which were associated with war. This distinction is seen in the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, where the Messiah is described as coming "gentle and riding on a donkey," a prophecy fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament (Matthew 21:5).

The inclusion of donkeys in the spoils also reflects the comprehensive nature of God's provision for His people, ensuring they had the necessary resources for their journey and settlement in the Promised Land. This provision can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides for the spiritual and physical needs of His followers. The number 61,000, while literal, also symbolizes abundance and completeness in God's blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was commanded by God to take vengeance on the Midianites.

2. Midianites
A nomadic tribe that opposed Israel and led them into idolatry and immorality.

3. Israelites
The people of God, who were instructed to carry out God's judgment against the Midianites.

4. Plunder
The goods and livestock taken by the Israelites from the Midianites, including the 61,000 donkeys mentioned in this verse.

5. God's Command
The directive given to Moses to execute judgment on the Midianites as a consequence of their actions against Israel.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' actions against the Midianites were in direct obedience to God's command. This highlights the importance of following God's instructions, even when they are difficult or challenging.

Consequences of Sin
The judgment on the Midianites serves as a reminder of the consequences of leading others into sin. It underscores the seriousness with which God views idolatry and immorality.

God's Provision
The plunder, including the 61,000 donkeys, represents God's provision for His people. It serves as a reminder that God provides for His people, even in the midst of judgment.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battle against the Midianites can be seen as a parallel to the spiritual battles believers face today. It encourages Christians to be vigilant and to rely on God's strength in overcoming spiritual adversaries.

Stewardship of Resources
The distribution and use of the plunder, including the donkeys, can be seen as a lesson in stewardship. Believers are called to manage God's resources wisely and for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the Midianites in Numbers 31 relate to their earlier interactions with Israel in Genesis and Exodus?

2. What can we learn from the Israelites' obedience to God's command in this passage, and how can we apply this to our own lives?

3. In what ways does the judgment on the Midianites serve as a warning against sin and idolatry in our own culture?

4. How does the concept of spiritual warfare in the New Testament relate to the physical battles described in the Old Testament, such as the one against the Midianites?

5. What principles of stewardship can we draw from the handling of the plunder, and how can we apply these principles to our management of resources today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The Midianites are first mentioned as traders who bought Joseph from his brothers, showing their longstanding interaction with Israel.

Exodus 2
Moses' initial encounter with the Midianites when he fled from Egypt, highlighting the complex relationship between the two groups.

Judges 6-8
The Midianites later oppressed Israel, leading to Gideon's rise as a judge, illustrating the cyclical nature of conflict and deliverance in Israel's history.

1 Samuel 15
God's command to Saul to destroy the Amalekites, similar to the command given to Moses regarding the Midianites, emphasizing obedience to divine instructions.