Numbers 31:6

And Moses sent the thousand from each tribe into battle, along with Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest, who took with him the vessels of the sanctuary and the trumpets for signaling.

Study Bible

And Moses sent the thousand from each tribe into battle
Moses, as the leader of Israel, organizes a military campaign against the Midianites. This action follows God's command to avenge the Israelites against the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 25). The selection of a thousand men from each tribe signifies a unified effort from the entire nation, emphasizing the collective responsibility and participation of Israel in executing divine justice. This also reflects the structured and organized nature of Israelite society, where each tribe had a role in national endeavors.

along with Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest
Phinehas, known for his zealous act in stopping a plague among the Israelites by executing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman (Numbers 25:7-8), is chosen to accompany the army. His presence signifies the spiritual dimension of the battle, highlighting that this is not merely a military campaign but a divine mission. Phinehas represents the priestly authority and the presence of God among the people, ensuring that the actions taken are in accordance with divine will.

who took with him the vessels of the sanctuary
The vessels of the sanctuary likely include sacred objects used in worship and rituals, symbolizing God's presence and blessing upon the military endeavor. Their inclusion underscores the sanctity of the mission and the need for divine favor and guidance. This act parallels the carrying of the Ark of the Covenant in other battles, where God's presence was invoked for victory (Joshua 6:6-7).

and the trumpets for signaling
The trumpets, used for communication and signaling during battle, also have a ceremonial role in Israelite worship (Numbers 10:9-10). They serve as a reminder of God's commands and promises, and their sound would rally the troops and instill confidence. The use of trumpets in battle is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing divine intervention and the proclamation of God's sovereignty (Joshua 6:20, 1 Thessalonians 4:16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is the one who sends the Israelites into battle.

2. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar, the priest. Phinehas is notable for his zeal for God's holiness, as seen in previous chapters. He is chosen to accompany the troops, signifying the spiritual aspect of the battle.

3. Eleazar
The high priest and father of Phinehas. He plays a significant role in the spiritual leadership of Israel.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, organized into tribes, each contributing a thousand men to the battle against the Midianites.

5. The Midianites
A people who had led Israel into sin through the counsel of Balaam, resulting in God's judgment upon them.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Preparation for Battle
Just as Phinehas took sacred articles and trumpets, we must equip ourselves spiritually for life's battles, relying on God's presence and guidance.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' decision to send Phinehas underscores the importance of godly leadership in both spiritual and physical endeavors. Leaders should be chosen for their spiritual integrity and zeal for God.

Holiness and Zeal
Phinehas' previous actions (Numbers 25) demonstrate the importance of zeal for God's holiness. We are called to uphold God's standards in our lives and communities.

Unity and Cooperation
The contribution of a thousand men from each tribe illustrates the need for unity and cooperation among God's people when facing challenges.

The Presence of God in Our Battles
The inclusion of sacred articles signifies the necessity of God's presence in our struggles. We must seek His guidance and strength in all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of Phinehas and the sacred articles in battle reflect the importance of spiritual readiness in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our leaders, both spiritual and secular, are chosen for their integrity and zeal for God?

3. How can we apply the principle of unity and cooperation seen in the Israelites' preparation for battle to our church or community today?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a personal "battle." How did you experience God's presence and guidance during that time?

5. How can the account of Phinehas inspire us to uphold God's holiness in our daily lives and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17
The battle against the Amalekites, where Moses' raised hands signified God's presence and power in battle, similar to the spiritual significance of Phinehas' presence in Numbers 31:6.

1 Samuel 4
The Israelites bring the Ark of the Covenant into battle, paralleling the presence of sacred articles in Numbers 31:6, highlighting the importance of God's presence in warfare.

Psalm 20
A prayer for victory in battle, emphasizing trust in God's power rather than human strength, which aligns with the spiritual preparation seen in Numbers 31:6.