Numbers 31:5

So a thousand men were recruited from each tribe of Israel--twelve thousand armed for war.

Study Bible

So a thousand men were recruited from each tribe of Israel—
This phrase indicates a specific and organized military strategy. The recruitment of a thousand men from each tribe suggests a sense of equality and shared responsibility among the tribes of Israel. This method of recruitment ensures that no single tribe bears the entire burden of warfare, reflecting the unity and collective effort of the nation. Historically, this approach underscores the importance of tribal identity and cohesion in ancient Israel. The number "thousand" often symbolizes completeness or a significant quantity in biblical terms, emphasizing the seriousness of the task at hand.

twelve thousand armed for war.
The total number of twelve thousand soldiers highlights the scale of the military campaign. In the context of Numbers 31, these men were assembled to execute God's judgment against the Midianites, who had led Israel into sin (Numbers 25). The number twelve is significant in biblical numerology, often representing divine government or authority, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles in the New Testament. This connection may suggest that the military action was under divine sanction and order. The phrase "armed for war" indicates that these men were prepared and equipped for battle, reflecting the seriousness of the conflict and the need for readiness in spiritual warfare, a theme echoed in Ephesians 6:10-18, where believers are called to put on the full armor of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received God's command to take vengeance on the Midianites.

2. Israelite Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel, each contributing a thousand men for the battle against Midian.

3. Midianites
A nomadic people who were adversaries of Israel, leading them into idolatry and immorality.

4. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar the priest, who played a significant role in the battle, carrying holy articles and trumpets.

5. The Battle Against Midian
A divinely commanded military campaign to execute judgment on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into sin.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Commands
The Israelites' response to God's command through Moses demonstrates the importance of obedience in fulfilling God's purposes.

The Consequences of Sin
The battle against Midian serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of leading others into sin, as seen in the Midianites' influence on Israel.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites were called to physical battle, Christians are called to spiritual warfare, armed with the armor of God (Ephesians 6).

Unity and Cooperation
The unified effort of the twelve tribes highlights the strength found in unity and cooperation among God's people.

Role of Leadership
Moses and Phinehas exemplify godly leadership, guiding the people in obedience to God's commands and ensuring the presence of God in their endeavors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the recruitment of a thousand men from each tribe reflect the importance of unity and shared responsibility among God's people?

2. In what ways can the consequences faced by the Midianites serve as a warning against leading others into sin in our own lives?

3. How can we apply the concept of spiritual warfare in our daily lives, drawing parallels from the Israelites' physical battle?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership of Moses and Phinehas in terms of guiding others in obedience to God's commands?

5. How do the events in Numbers 31:5 connect with the New Testament teachings on idolatry and immorality, and how can these connections inform our Christian walk today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17
The Israelites' earlier conflict with the Amalekites, another group that opposed God's people, showing a pattern of divine intervention in battles.

Deuteronomy 20
Provides laws concerning warfare, including the role of priests and the conduct of soldiers, which can be related to the involvement of Phinehas.

Psalm 106
Reflects on Israel's history, including their sins and God's deliverance, offering a broader context for understanding the consequences of idolatry and immorality.

1 Corinthians 10
Paul warns against idolatry and immorality, using Israel's history as a lesson for the church, echoing the events leading to the battle against Midian.