Numbers 13:14

KJV

Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.

KJV (with Strong's)

Of the tribe {H4294} of Naphtali {H5321}, Nahbi {H5147} the son {H1121} of Vophsi {H2058}.

Complete Jewish Bible

from the tribe of Naftali, Nachbi the son of Vofsi; and

Berean Standard Bible

from the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi;

American Standard Version

Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 13:14 concisely introduces Nahbi, son of Vophsi, as the chosen representative from the tribe of Naphtali. This verse is an integral part of the comprehensive list of twelve leaders, one from each tribe, whom Moses was commanded by the Lord to send as spies into the land of Canaan. It underscores the divine mandate and the meticulous tribal representation involved in this pivotal reconnaissance mission, setting the stage for Israel's anticipated entry into the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 13:14 is situated within the broader narrative of [Numbers chapter 13](/numbers/13 "Numbers 13 - The Spies Sent into Canaan"), which details the crucial mission of the twelve spies. The chapter opens with the Lord's direct command to Moses to send these men to explore Canaan ([Numbers 13:1-2](/numbers/13-1 "Numbers 13:1-2 - The Lord Commands Moses to Send Spies")). Following this divine instruction, Moses meticulously selects one leader from each tribe, whose names and lineage are then meticulously listed from [Numbers 13:4](/numbers/13-4 "Numbers 13:4 - Reuben's Spy") through [Numbers 13:15](/numbers/13-15 "Numbers 13:15 - Gad's Spy"). Nahbi's inclusion in this roster is not merely a genealogical detail but highlights his specific appointment by Moses, under God's direction, to participate in this momentous task. The listing of names emphasizes the official, representative nature of the mission, involving the entire Israelite community through their tribal leaders.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Numbers 13 occur during Israel's forty-year wilderness wandering, specifically after their departure from Mount Sinai and arrival at the wilderness of Paran, on the cusp of entering Canaan. At this point, Israel is transitioning from a collection of families into a unified nation, organized by tribes, with a clear divine covenant and a promised inheritance. The practice of sending scouts or spies before a military campaign was a common ancient Near Eastern strategy to assess enemy strength, terrain, and resources. Culturally, lineage was paramount, as indicated by the "son of Vophsi" designation, establishing Nahbi's identity and tribal affiliation within the patriarchal societal structure. The Promised Land, Canaan, was inhabited by various peoples, including formidable groups like the Anakim (giants), whose presence would later instill fear in the spies, as described in [Numbers 13:28](/numbers/13-28 "Numbers 13:28 - The Spies' Report on the Inhabitants").
* **Key Themes:** This verse, as part of the spy narrative, contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Mandate and Sovereignty**, as the entire mission is initiated by God's command, demonstrating His active guidance over His people. Secondly, the detailed listing of tribal representatives highlights **Unity and Corporate Responsibility**, emphasizing that the entire nation, through its leadership, was involved in this critical moment of decision. Thirdly, it sets the stage for the theme of **Faith vs. Unbelief**, as the spies' reports will soon reveal a stark contrast between the faith of Caleb and Joshua and the fear and unbelief of the other ten, including Nahbi. This ultimately leads to the tragic consequences of Israel's forty-year wandering, a direct result of their failure to trust God's promise to deliver the land, as recounted in [Numbers 14](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - The People Rebel and are Punished"). Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Individual Accountability**, as each spy, though part of a collective, would be personally responsible for their report and its impact.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nahbi (Hebrew, _Naḥbî_):** This name is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to hide" or "my hiding place." While the etymology of a name does not always directly reflect a person's character or actions, it is an interesting linguistic detail for a man chosen to be a spy—one whose task involves stealth and observation. Ironically, Nahbi would later be among those who "hid" from the challenge of the land, preferring fear over faith.
* **Naphtali (Hebrew, _Nap̄tālî_):** Meaning "my wrestling," this is the name of the sixth son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's servant. The tribe of Naphtali was known for its swiftness and military prowess, as suggested in Jacob's blessing in [Genesis 49:21](/genesis/49-21 "Genesis 49:21 - Jacob's Blessing on Naphtali") and Deborah's song in [Judges 5:18](/judges/5-18 "Judges 5:18 - Deborah's Song of Praise"). Nahbi's representation of this tribe underscores the involvement of all Israel's distinct tribal identities in the mission.
* **Vophsi (Hebrew, _Wāp̄sî_):** The etymology of this name is less certain, possibly related to a root meaning "to add" or "to increase." As Nahbi's father, Vophsi serves primarily to establish Nahbi's lineage and identity within the tribal structure, a common practice in biblical genealogies and lists of appointed individuals.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of the tribe of Naphtali":** This phrase immediately identifies Nahbi's tribal affiliation, emphasizing the meticulous, divinely mandated selection process that ensured representation from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. It highlights the corporate nature of the mission, where each tribe had a vested interest and a voice through its chosen leader.
* **"Nahbi the son of Vophsi":** This provides the specific identification of the individual spy. The inclusion of the father's name ("son of Vophsi") is a standard biblical convention for establishing a person's identity and lineage, signifying their place within the community and their family's reputation. It grounds Nahbi's appointment in a concrete, verifiable identity, rather than an anonymous role.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 13:14, though brief, employs several literary devices within the broader context of the chapter. The most prominent is **Enumeration**, as the verse is part of a detailed list of the twelve spies. This systematic listing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the divine command and Moses' obedience in selecting representatives from every tribe. The inclusion of Nahbi's name also serves as subtle **Foreshadowing**. While the verse itself is neutral, the reader, aware of the full narrative, knows that Nahbi will be among the ten spies who deliver a report of fear and unbelief, leading to tragic consequences for the nation. This seemingly simple listing thus carries a weight of future narrative significance. Furthermore, the precise identification of Nahbi by tribe and lineage contributes to the **Verisimilitude** of the account, lending it historical credibility and grounding the theological lessons in specific, identifiable figures.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 13:14, by naming Nahbi, highlights the biblical principle of divine selection for specific tasks, even for individuals whose subsequent actions might fall short of God's ideal. God chooses and equips individuals, but their response to that calling—whether in faith or fear—determines the outcome for themselves and often for the community they represent. Nahbi's inclusion in this divinely appointed mission underscores that every person, regardless of their perceived prominence, plays a role in God's unfolding plan. The ultimate failure of Nahbi and the other ten spies to trust God's promise to deliver the land serves as a powerful cautionary tale against unbelief and its devastating consequences, echoing throughout Scripture as a warning to future generations.

* [Numbers 14:36-37](/numbers/14-36 "Numbers 14:36-37 - The Death of the Unfaithful Spies")
* [Deuteronomy 1:26-33](/deuteronomy/1-26 "Deuteronomy 1:26-33 - Israel's Disobedience at Kadesh")
* [Hebrews 3:17-19](/hebrews/3-17 "Hebrews 3:17-19 - The Consequences of Unbelief")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief mention of Nahbi in Numbers 13:14 serves as a profound reminder that every individual, even those seemingly minor figures in the grand tapestry of God's narrative, is known by God and has a role to play. Nahbi was chosen for a critical mission, yet his story, along with the other ten spies, tragically illustrates the devastating impact of fear and unbelief when confronted with God's promises. In our own lives, we are often called to step into "promised lands" of spiritual growth, new ministries, or challenging circumstances. Like Nahbi, we may be tempted to focus on the "giants" and the "fortified cities" of our challenges, rather than on the power and faithfulness of the God who calls us. This verse prompts us to consider how we respond when God gives us a mandate. Do we allow fear to dictate our perspective, or do we, like Caleb and Joshua, fix our eyes on God's power and His unfailing promises, trusting Him to overcome any obstacle? Our individual choices, though seemingly small, have ripple effects on our communities and our spiritual journey.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" or overwhelming obstacles do you perceive in the "promised land" God is calling you to enter today?**
* **How does fear manifest in your response to God's challenges, and how can you cultivate a spirit of faith like Caleb and Joshua?**
* **In what ways might your individual choices, whether in faith or fear, impact the community around you?**

### FAQ

**Who was Nahbi, and why is he mentioned in Numbers 13:14?**

Answer: Nahbi was the son of Vophsi and the chosen representative (spy) from the tribe of Naphtali. He is mentioned in [Numbers 13:14](/numbers/13-14 "Numbers 13:14 - Nahbi, Spy from Naphtali") as part of the list of the twelve tribal leaders whom Moses, at the Lord's command, sent to scout the land of Canaan. His inclusion highlights the comprehensive tribal representation in this crucial reconnaissance mission, which was intended to gather intelligence before Israel's entry into the Promised Land.

**What was the significance of Nahbi's role as a spy?**

Answer: While Numbers 13:14 only identifies him, Nahbi's significance becomes clear in the subsequent narrative. He was one of the ten spies who returned with a discouraging report, emphasizing the strength of the Canaanites and the fortified cities, which instilled fear and led to widespread rebellion among the Israelites ([Numbers 13:31-33](/numbers/13-31 "Numbers 13:31-33 - The Negative Report")). This fearful report directly contrasted with the faithful and encouraging assessment given by Caleb and Joshua ([Numbers 14:6-9](/numbers/14-6 "Numbers 14:6-9 - Caleb and Joshua's Faithful Report")). Ultimately, Nahbi, along with the other nine unfaithful spies, died by plague before the Lord ([Numbers 14:36-37](/numbers/14-36 "Numbers 14:36-37 - The Death of the Unfaithful Spies")) as a consequence of their unbelief and their role in inciting the people's rebellion, which resulted in Israel's forty-year wandering in the wilderness.

**Does Nahbi's name "Nahbi" (meaning "my hiding place") have any special significance for his role as a spy?**

Answer: While the etymology of "Nahbi" (נַחְבִּי) from a root meaning "to hide" is interesting given his role as a spy, the Bible does not explicitly draw a connection between his name and his actions. However, one could observe an ironic twist: a man named "my hiding place" was sent to scout a land, but ultimately, he and his companions "hid" from the challenge of faith, choosing fear over trust in God's power to conquer the land. This highlights that a person's character and choices are not predetermined by their name but by their response to God's calling.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of the spies, including the appointment of Nahbi, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in Jesus Christ. The Promised Land, which Israel failed to enter due to unbelief, serves as a powerful type of the spiritual inheritance and rest that believers receive through faith in Christ. Unlike the spies who saw insurmountable obstacles and spread fear, Jesus is the faithful and true scout, who perfectly fulfilled the Father's will, even facing the ultimate "giants" of sin and death. He did not shrink back from the cross but conquered it, securing for us access to the true spiritual "Promised Land" of God's presence and eternal life ([Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1 "Hebrews 4:1-11 - Entering God's Rest")). Where Nahbi and the other ten spies exemplified human weakness and unbelief, leading to judgment and delay, Christ perfectly embodies obedience and faith, leading His people into true rest and victory. Furthermore, while Nahbi's name ironically suggested a "hiding place," Jesus Christ is our true and ultimate "hiding place" and refuge, in whom our lives are "hidden with Christ in God" ([Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Our Life Hidden in Christ")). He is the faithful leader who brings us into the fullness of God's promises, not by human strength or fearful assessment, but by His divine power and perfect sacrifice.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.