Numbers 32:38

as well as Nebo and Baal-meon (whose names were changed), and Sibmah. And they renamed the cities they rebuilt.

Study Bible

as well as Nebo and Baal-meon (whose names were changed),
Nebo and Baal-meon were cities located in the territory east of the Jordan River, in the region allotted to the tribes of Reuben and Gad. Nebo is associated with Mount Nebo, where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Baal-meon, also known as Beth-baal-meon, was a city dedicated to the Canaanite god Baal, indicating the prevalent pagan worship in the area. The changing of names signifies a rejection of the pagan past and an assertion of Israelite identity and sovereignty. This act of renaming is reminiscent of other biblical instances where names are changed to reflect a new purpose or divine intervention, such as Abram to Abraham or Jacob to Israel.

and Sibmah.
Sibmah was another city in the region of Moab, known for its vineyards, as mentioned in Isaiah 16:8-9 and Jeremiah 48:32. The mention of Sibmah highlights the agricultural richness of the area, which was attractive to the tribes of Reuben and Gad. The vineyards of Sibmah were renowned, and the city’s inclusion in this list underscores the economic potential that the Israelites sought to harness. The control of such fertile land would have been crucial for sustaining the tribes' livestock and agricultural activities.

And they renamed the cities they rebuilt.
Renaming and rebuilding the cities symbolize the transformation and establishment of a new order under Israelite control. This act of rebuilding is not just physical but also spiritual, as it involves purging the land of its former idolatrous associations. The renaming signifies a new beginning and dedication to the God of Israel, aligning with the broader biblical theme of renewal and redemption. This transformation can be seen as a type of Christ, who brings new life and identity to believers, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where those in Christ are described as a new creation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nebo
A city located in the territory east of the Jordan River, associated with the tribe of Reuben. It was one of the cities rebuilt and renamed by the Reubenites.

2. Baal-meon
Another city in the region of Reuben, originally named after the Canaanite god Baal. The Reubenites changed its name as part of their settlement process.

3. Sibmah
A city known for its vineyards, also located in the territory of Reuben. It was rebuilt and renamed by the Reubenites.

4. Reubenites
The descendants of Reuben, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. They settled in the land east of the Jordan River after requesting it from Moses.

5. Name Changes
The act of renaming these cities signifies a break from their pagan past and a new identity under Israelite control.

Teaching Points

Significance of Name Changes
The renaming of cities reflects a transformation and dedication to God, moving away from pagan associations. In our lives, we are called to leave behind our old ways and embrace a new identity in Christ.

Importance of Heritage and Legacy
The Reubenites' actions in rebuilding and renaming cities demonstrate the importance of establishing a godly heritage. We are encouraged to build our lives and communities on the foundation of faith.

God's Faithfulness in Inheritance
The allocation of land to the Reubenites is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust God to provide for us and guide us in our spiritual inheritance.

Cultural Transformation
Just as the Reubenites transformed the cultural landscape by renaming cities, Christians are called to be agents of change in the world, influencing culture with the values of the Kingdom of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What is the significance of the Reubenites changing the names of the cities they rebuilt, and how can this apply to our spiritual transformation in Christ?

2. How does the account of the Reubenites settling east of the Jordan River demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises?

3. In what ways can we, like the Reubenites, establish a godly heritage in our families and communities?

4. How does the act of renaming cities reflect the broader biblical theme of transformation and new identity?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Reubenites about being agents of cultural transformation in our own contexts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 13
This chapter details the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, including the territories east of the Jordan given to Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

1 Chronicles 5
Chronicles the genealogy and settlements of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, providing additional context to their territories and cities.

Isaiah 16
Mentions Sibmah in the context of Moab's lament, highlighting its significance and the impact of its vineyards.