Numbers 13:19

And what the land [is] that they dwell in, whether it [be] good or bad; and what cities [they be] that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;

And what the land {H776} is that they dwell in {H3427}, whether it be good {H2896} or bad {H7451}; and what cities {H5892} they be that they dwell {H3427} in {H2007}, whether in tents {H4264}, or in strong holds {H4013};

and what kind of country they live in, whether it is good or bad; and what kind of cities they live in, open or fortified.

Is the land where they live good or bad? Are the cities where they dwell open camps or fortifications?

and what the land is that they dwell in, whether it is good or bad; and what cities they are that they dwell in, whether in camps, or in strongholds;

Commentary

Numbers 13:19 KJV Commentary: Assessing the Promised Land

Context

This verse is part of the detailed instructions given by Moses to the twelve tribal leaders chosen to scout the land of Canaan. Commissioned by God (though initiated by the people's request according to Deuteronomy 1:22), these spies were sent ahead of the main Israelite encampment to gather vital intelligence about the land they were about to inherit. Their mission, outlined in Numbers 13:1-2, was comprehensive, covering everything from the strength of the inhabitants to the quality of the soil and natural resources. Verse 19 specifically focuses on assessing the land's agricultural potential and natural endowments, crucial for sustaining a large population.

Key Themes

  • Thorough Preparation: Moses' instructions highlight the importance of detailed reconnaissance before a major undertaking. The Israelites were not to enter blindly but with an understanding of the challenges and and resources available.
  • The Nature of the Promised Land: The questions posed ("whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not") directly address the fertility and abundance God had promised. This was not just a desolate wilderness but a land capable of supporting life and prosperity.
  • Divine Provision and Human Diligence: While God had promised a "land flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8), human effort was still required to understand and utilize its blessings. The spies' report, though ultimately leading to fear for many, was intended to be a factual basis for strategic planning.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "fat or lean" (Hebrew: Χ“ΦΌΦΈΧ©ΧΦ΅ΧŸ dashen for fat/fertile, and Χ¨ΦΈΧ–ΦΆΧ” razeh for lean/barren) vividly describes the soil's quality. "Fat" refers to rich, fertile ground, indicative of agricultural abundance. "Lean" suggests poor, unproductive soil. The inclusion of "whether there be wood therein, or not" indicates an assessment of natural resources beyond just agriculture, such as timber for building or fuel, reflecting a comprehensive evaluation of the land's overall habitability and utility.

Practical Application

Numbers 13:19 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • Informed Decision-Making: While faith in God's promises is paramount, wisdom also calls for gathering information and understanding circumstances. This verse encourages thoroughness in planning and preparation, whether in personal endeavors or ministry.
  • Trusting God's Goodness: Despite the subsequent faithlessness of most of the spies, God's promise of a good land (as confirmed by Caleb and Joshua in Numbers 14:7-9) remained true. We are reminded to trust in God's character and His provision, even when challenges seem daunting.
  • Recognizing Blessings: The detailed assessment of the land's resources encourages us to appreciate and steward the blessings God provides, whether they are natural resources, talents, or opportunities.
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Cross-References

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