Numbers 32:36

Beth-nimrah, and Beth-haran as fortified cities, and they built folds for their flocks.

Study Bible

Beth-nimrah
Beth-nimrah is a location east of the Jordan River, in the territory allotted to the tribe of Gad. The name means "house of the leopard" or "house of the waters," indicating a place of abundance or strength. This area is part of the Transjordan, which was known for its fertile land, making it suitable for agriculture and livestock. The mention of Beth-nimrah highlights the strategic and economic importance of this region for the tribes settling there.

and Beth-haran
Beth-haran, also known as Beth-haram, is another city in the territory of Gad. Its name means "house of the height" or "house of the mountain," suggesting a location of elevation or prominence. This city, like Beth-nimrah, was part of the land conquered by the Israelites under Moses' leadership. The inclusion of Beth-haran emphasizes the expansion and establishment of Israelite presence in the Transjordan area.

as fortified cities
The fortification of these cities indicates a need for defense and security against potential enemies. In the ancient Near East, fortified cities were essential for protection against invasions and raids. The construction of fortifications reflects the Israelites' intention to settle and secure their new territories. This action also demonstrates their reliance on God's promise to give them the land, as they took practical steps to inhabit and defend it.

and they built folds for their flocks
Building folds for their flocks shows the pastoral nature of the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who requested this land because it was suitable for livestock. The construction of folds, or pens, for animals indicates a settled lifestyle and a focus on agriculture and animal husbandry. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's provision for His people, as He led them to a land where they could thrive and sustain their communities. The emphasis on livestock also connects to the patriarchal heritage of the Israelites, who were traditionally shepherds and herdsmen.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Beth-nimrah
A city located in the territory east of the Jordan River, associated with the tribe of Gad. It was fortified by the Gadites as part of their settlement in the land.

2. Beth-haran
Another city fortified by the Gadites, also situated east of the Jordan. It served as a strategic location for defense and community life.

3. The Gadites
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descendants of Gad, the seventh son of Jacob. They requested to settle in the land east of the Jordan because it was suitable for their large herds.

4. Fortified Cities
The act of fortifying these cities indicates a preparation for defense and a commitment to establishing a permanent presence in the land.

5. Folds for Flocks
This refers to the construction of enclosures for livestock, highlighting the importance of agriculture and animal husbandry in the Gadites' economy and way of life.

Teaching Points

Preparation and Stewardship
The Gadites' actions in fortifying cities and building folds for their flocks demonstrate the importance of preparation and stewardship of resources. Believers are called to wisely manage what God has entrusted to them.

Community and Defense
The establishment of fortified cities underscores the need for community and mutual protection. Christians are encouraged to build strong, supportive communities that can withstand spiritual and physical challenges.

Trust in God's Provision
While the Gadites took practical steps to secure their future, their ultimate trust was in God's provision. Believers should balance practical action with faith in God's sovereignty.

Commitment to God's Promises
The Gadites' settlement east of the Jordan reflects a commitment to the land God promised to Israel. Christians are reminded to hold fast to God's promises and live in a way that reflects their faith in His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Gadites' decision to fortify their cities and build folds for their flocks about balancing faith and practical action in our own lives?

2. How does the concept of community and mutual protection, as seen in the fortified cities, apply to the church today?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate good stewardship of the resources God has given us, similar to the Gadites' care for their flocks?

4. How do the actions of the Gadites in Numbers 32:36 reflect a commitment to God's promises, and how can we apply this commitment in our daily walk with God?

5. Considering the connections to other scriptures, how does the account of the Gadites' settlement east of the Jordan encourage us to trust in God's provision and timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 13:24-28
This passage details the allocation of land to the tribe of Gad, confirming their settlement in the region and the cities they fortified.

1 Chronicles 5:11-17
Chronicles the genealogies and settlements of the tribes east of the Jordan, including the Gadites, emphasizing their role and presence in the region.

Proverbs 21:31
While not directly related, this verse speaks to the importance of preparation and trust in God, paralleling the Gadites' efforts to fortify their cities and care for their flocks.