Numbers 31:35

and 32,000 women who had not slept with a man.

Study Bible

and 32,000 women
This phrase refers to the number of women taken captive by the Israelites after their victory over the Midianites. The large number indicates the scale of the conflict and the significant impact on the Midianite population. In the ancient Near Eastern context, capturing women and children was a common practice in warfare, often for servitude or integration into the victors' society. The number 32,000 also reflects the thoroughness of the Israelite campaign, as commanded by God, to eliminate the influence of Midian, which had led Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 25).

who had not slept with a man
This specification highlights the focus on preserving the purity of the captives. In the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel, virginity was highly valued, and these women were considered ritually pure. This distinction was important for maintaining the holiness of the Israelite camp, as sexual immorality had previously led to a plague among the Israelites (Numbers 25:1-9). The preservation of virgins also ensured that the captives could be integrated into Israelite society without the complications of previous marital ties or allegiances. This practice can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Testament emphasis on spiritual purity and the Church as the bride of Christ, unblemished and set apart (Ephesians 5:25-27).

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. 32,000 Women
The number of young women who were spared during the conquest, as they had not been involved in the immorality that led to the judgment.

5. Plains of Moab
The location where the Israelites were encamped and from where they launched their campaign against the Midianites.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Mercy
God's command to spare the young women highlights His justice in punishing sin while also showing mercy to the innocent. Believers are called to uphold justice and extend mercy in their own lives.

The Consequences of Sin
The judgment on the Midianites serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of leading others into sin. Christians should be vigilant against influences that lead them away from God.

Purity and Holiness
The sparing of the young women who had not been involved in immorality underscores the importance of purity. Believers are encouraged to pursue holiness in their relationships and interactions.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in carrying out God's command against the Midianites demonstrates the importance of following God's directives, even when they are difficult. Christians are called to trust and obey God's Word.

Redemption and Restoration
The sparing of the young women can be seen as an opportunity for redemption and a new beginning. Believers are reminded of the redemptive power of God in their own lives and the lives of others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sparing of the 32,000 women reflect God's character of justice and mercy?

2. In what ways can the account of the Midianites serve as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and immorality in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the principles of purity and holiness from this passage to our modern-day relationships?

4. What are some challenges we face in obeying God's commands, and how can we overcome them?

5. How does the concept of redemption in this passage encourage us to seek restoration in our own lives and in the lives of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:1-4
Provides background on the Midianites, who were descendants of Abraham through Keturah, showing the complex familial ties between the Israelites and Midianites.

Numbers 25:1-3
Describes the sin of the Israelites with the Moabite and Midianite women, which led to God's command for vengeance.

Deuteronomy 20:13-14
Offers laws regarding warfare and the treatment of captives, providing context for the sparing of the young women.

Judges 6:1-6
Illustrates the ongoing conflict between Israel and Midian, showing the cyclical nature of sin and judgment.

1 Corinthians 10:8
Warns against sexual immorality, using the Israelites' experience as a cautionary example for believers.