The account of vengeance on Midian is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. This event highlights the divine retribution executed by the Israelites under God's command against the Midianites, who had led Israel into sin.

Biblical Context

The narrative of vengeance on Midian is found in Numbers 31. The Midianites, along with the Moabites, had previously enticed the Israelites into idolatry and immorality at Peor, as recorded in Numbers 25. This incident provoked the Lord's anger, resulting in a plague that killed 24,000 Israelites. The Midianites' role in this transgression set the stage for their subsequent punishment.

Divine Command

God's directive for vengeance is explicitly stated in Numbers 31:1-2 : "The LORD said to Moses, 'Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people.'" This command underscores the principle of divine justice, where God holds nations accountable for leading His people into sin.

Execution of Vengeance

Moses, obeying God's command, mobilized a force of 12,000 Israelite men, one thousand from each tribe, to carry out the task. Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, accompanied them with holy articles and trumpets for signaling (Numbers 31:6). The Israelites waged war against Midian, resulting in the death of all the Midianite males, including their five kings: Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba. Balaam, the prophet who had previously attempted to curse Israel, was also killed (Numbers 31:7-8).

Spoils and Aftermath

The Israelites captured the women, children, and livestock of Midian as spoils of war. However, Moses was angered by the survival of the Midianite women, as they had been instrumental in leading Israel into sin. He commanded that all the male children and non-virgin women be killed, while the virgin girls were spared (Numbers 31:14-18).

The spoils of war, including livestock and precious metals, were divided among the soldiers, the community, and the Levites. A portion was also offered to the Lord as tribute (Numbers 31:25-30).

Theological Significance

The vengeance on Midian serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness with which God views idolatry and immorality. It illustrates the principle of divine retribution and the necessity of purging evil influences from among God's people. The event also highlights the role of leadership in executing God's commands and maintaining the holiness of the community.

Related Themes

· Divine Justice: The event underscores God's justice in dealing with nations that lead His people astray.
· Holiness and Purity: The command to eliminate the corrupting influence of the Midianites reflects the importance of maintaining purity among God's people.
· Leadership and Obedience: Moses' leadership in executing God's command demonstrates the importance of obedience to divine directives.

Cross-References

· Numbers 25: The sin of Peor and the initial transgression involving the Midianites.
· Deuteronomy 20:16-18: Instructions for dealing with nations that lead Israel into sin.
· Psalm 106:28-31: A reflection on the sin of Peor and Phinehas' zeal for God's honor.

The account of vengeance on Midian is a powerful narrative that emphasizes the themes of divine justice, the consequences of sin, and the necessity of obedience to God's commands.