Numbers

Numbers takes its title from its Greek name, arithmoi, referring to the census or "numbering" of the people. The Hebrew title means "in the wilderness," designating the location of Israel's forty-year journey between Sinai and the borders of Canaan, the land Yahweh has promised to Abraham's descendants.

Israel's male population is counted twice by Moses:

1. in chapter 1 while the people are still receiving the Sinai revelation

2. again years later after the older generation has perished for refusing to trust Yahweh -- This is in chapter 26.

In between these two numberings are narrative examples of the people's collective failure to appreciate the law Yahweh has given them or to cooperate with his appointed leader, Moses. Numbers emphasizes the importance of submitting to Yahweh's laws and ethical directions. Only a fully obedient Israel can expect to enjoy the fulfillment of the divine promises.

Spying Out the Land (Num. 13:1-33)

Moses chose twelve men (a representative from each tribe), to investigate the Promised Land. The returning spies gave a glowing report of the richness of the land. But they gave a majority report that counseled against an invasion. Ten of the spies believed that the Promised Land could not be taken. Caleb and Joshua recommended an invasion. The people were so fearful of invading Canaan that they rebelled. Moses and Aaron were almost stoned by the people. Because of their rebellion, God condemned that generation to the wilderness, except Caleb and Joshua. Miriam and Aaron were part of the older generation who were not allowed to see the Promised Land. Moses was also not allowed to enter Canaan because when he was commanded by the LORD to speak to a rock to find water in the desert, he seems to have struck it in anger.

Balaam's Blessings (Num. 22-24)

This is the humorous story of Balaam, a Canaanite prophet hired by King Balak of Moab to curse Israel. Although Balaam conscientiously tries to earn his fee by invoking the customary curses, Yahweh turns the curses into blessings. Even Balaam's donkey, which miraculously finds a voice to reprimand her master, plays a part in thwarting Balak's designs. Neither pagan king nor hired prophet can resist Yahweh's plans for Israel. Because Aaron has died and Moses cannot enter Canaan, a successor to Moses must be chosen. Joshua is appointed as Moses' successor (27:12-23).