Numbers 31:44

36,000 cattle,

Study Bible

and 32,000 women
The phrase "and 32,000 women" refers to the specific number of female captives taken by the Israelites after their victory over the Midianites. The number 32,000 is significant, indicating the vastness of the victory and the scale of the spoils. In the Hebrew context, numbers often carry symbolic weight, and large numbers like this can signify completeness or divine blessing. The capture of such a large number of women highlights the thoroughness of the Israelites' conquest, as commanded by God. Historically, the taking of captives was a common practice in ancient warfare, serving both as a means of population control and as a way to integrate new members into the community.

who had not slept with a man
This phrase specifies the condition of the women who were taken captive. In the Hebrew text, the phrase "who had not slept with a man" is a euphemism for virginity. The emphasis on virginity here is significant in the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel. Virgins were often seen as pure and untainted, and in this context, they were spared from the destruction that befell the rest of the Midianite population. This distinction underscores the importance of purity and the preservation of the covenant community's sanctity. From a theological perspective, this can be seen as a reflection of God's desire for His people to remain holy and set apart from the surrounding nations. The sparing of these women also points to the potential for redemption and integration into the Israelite community, symbolizing hope and new beginnings even amidst judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is overseeing the distribution of the spoils of war after the battle against the Midianites.

2. Midianites
A nomadic tribe that opposed Israel and was defeated in battle as a result of God's command.

3. Israelites
The people of God, who are receiving instructions on how to handle the spoils of war.

4. Eleazar the Priest
The high priest who assists Moses in the distribution and purification process.

5. The Battle Against Midian
A divinely commanded conflict where the Israelites are victorious, leading to the division of the spoils.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Commands
The Israelites' actions in Numbers 31 demonstrate the importance of following God's instructions, even when they are difficult or challenging.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of the Midianites serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of leading others into sin, as the Midianites did with Israel in Numbers 25.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
This passage illustrates God's sovereign right to judge nations and peoples, reminding us of His ultimate authority over all creation.

The Role of Leadership
Moses and Eleazar exemplify godly leadership in executing God's commands and ensuring the community's purity and obedience.

The Importance of Purification
The subsequent verses (Numbers 31:19-24) emphasize the need for purification after battle, symbolizing the need for spiritual cleansing in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to destroy the Midianites reflect God's justice and holiness, and how can we apply this understanding to our view of God's character today?

2. In what ways does the account of the Midianites challenge us to consider the influence of sin in our own lives and communities?

3. How can we apply the principles of godly leadership demonstrated by Moses and Eleazar in our own roles and responsibilities?

4. What does the requirement for purification after battle teach us about the importance of spiritual cleansing and repentance in our daily walk with God?

5. How can the historical context of the Midianites' relationship with Israel inform our understanding of God's long-term plans and purposes for His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Exodus 17:8-16
Describes another conflict with a related group, the Amalekites, showing a pattern of opposition from neighboring tribes.

1 Samuel 15
Offers a parallel in the command to destroy the Amalekites, emphasizing obedience to God's instructions in warfare.

Deuteronomy 20:10-18
Outlines the laws of warfare for Israel, providing context for the actions taken in Numbers 31.

Psalm 83:9
References the defeat of Midian as a past example of God's deliverance, encouraging trust in God's power.