Numbers 20:17

KJV

Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink [of] the water of the wells: we will go by the king's [high] way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let us pass {H5674}, I pray thee, through thy country {H776}: we will not pass {H5674} through the fields {H7704}, or through the vineyards {H3754}, neither will we drink {H8354} of the water {H4325} of the wells {H875}: we will go {H3212} by the king's {H4428} high way {H1870}, we will not turn {H5186} to the right hand {H3225} nor to the left {H8040}, until we have passed {H5674} thy borders {H1366}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Please let us pass through your land. We will not go through fields or vineyards, and we won't drink any water from the wells. We will go along the King's Highway, not turning aside either to the right or to the left until we have left your territory."

Berean Standard Bible

Please let us pass through your land. We will not cut through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King’s Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory.”

American Standard Version

Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy land: we will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink of the water of the wells; we will go along the king’s highway; we will not turn aside to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy border.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 20:17 presents Israel's earnest and meticulously articulated plea to the King of Edom for peaceful transit through his territory. This significant diplomatic overture, occurring late in the wilderness wanderings, reflects Israel's strategic need for the most direct route to the Promised Land. Moses, as the nation's representative, meticulously assures Edom that Israel will adhere strictly to the public "king's highway," pledging to avoid all private agricultural lands, vineyards, and vital water sources. This detailed commitment underscores Israel's non-aggressive intentions and their profound respect for Edomite sovereignty and resources, setting a tone of integrity in their geopolitical interactions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within Numbers 20, a pivotal chapter marking the transition of generations and significant events leading up to Israel's entry into Canaan. Immediately preceding this diplomatic request, Miriam, Moses' sister, dies ([Numbers 20:1](/numbers/20-1 "Numbers 20:1 - Miriam's Death")), followed by the people's familiar complaint about lack of water at Kadesh ([Numbers 20:2-5](/numbers/20-2-5 "Numbers 20:2-5 - Israel's Complaint for Water")). This complaint leads to Moses' fateful sin at Meribah, where he strikes the rock instead of speaking to it, resulting in God's decree that he will not enter the Promised Land ([Numbers 20:6-13](/numbers/20-6-13 "Numbers 20:6-13 - Moses' Sin at Meribah")). It is in the immediate aftermath of these profound events—death, rebellion, and divine judgment—that Moses dispatches messengers to Edom. The Edomite refusal ([Numbers 20:18-21](/numbers/20-18-21 "Numbers 20:18-21 - Edom Refuses Passage")) then forces Israel to take a longer, more arduous detour around Edomite territory, highlighting both Israel's persistent challenges and God's sovereign guidance even through obstacles. This narrative sequence emphasizes Israel's continued reliance on God's provision while navigating complex human and geopolitical realities on the cusp of their inheritance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, making them a kindred nation to Israel, though often marked by rivalry and conflict. Their territory, Mount Seir, was a rugged, mountainous region strategically situated along the "King's Highway," a vital ancient trade route connecting Egypt with Mesopotamia and Arabia. This highway was crucial for commerce, communication, and military movements, typically controlled and maintained by the ruling power. Moses' request was therefore not merely for a simple path but for access to a significant economic and military artery. The meticulous emphasis on avoiding fields, vineyards, and wells reflects the common concerns of ancient peoples regarding large foreign groups or armies passing through their lands. Such movements often resulted in foraging, plundering, or the depletion and contamination of vital water sources. Moses' diplomatic overture, therefore, was a standard, respectful practice aimed at preventing conflict and ensuring safe, unhindered passage for the vast Israelite multitude.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 20:17 powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the Pentateuch and Israel's journey. Firstly, it showcases **diplomacy and peaceful intent** as Israel, despite its numerical strength and divine backing, seeks to avoid conflict with a related nation, adhering to God's earlier command not to provoke the Edomites ([Deuteronomy 2:4-5](/deuteronomy/2-4-5 "Deuteronomy 2:4-5 - God's Command Regarding Edom")). Secondly, the detailed promises regarding avoiding fields, vineyards, and wells highlight **respect for sovereignty and property rights**, demonstrating Israel's commitment to ethical conduct and non-intrusion, even when under duress. Thirdly, the explicit focus on the "king's highway" emphasizes **orderly conduct and adherence to established paths**, reinforcing Israel's desire to be a disciplined and non-threatening presence. This entire episode, culminating in Edom's refusal ([Numbers 20:21](/numbers/20-21 "Numbers 20:21 - Edom's Refusal to Grant Passage")), ultimately underscores the theme of **divine guidance and provision**, as God sovereignly leads Israel around obstacles, demonstrating His faithfulness even when human negotiations fail.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pass (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** This primitive root signifies "to cross over" or "to go over," encompassing a wide range of transitions, both literal and figurative. In Numbers 20:17, it is used repeatedly ("Let us pass," "we will not pass," "until we have passed") to emphasize the Israelites' sole intention: to move through Edomite territory. It denotes a temporary, non-permanent transit, reinforcing their promise of non-intrusion and peaceful movement.
* **King's [high] way (Hebrew, _derek hammelekh'_):** Literally "the way of the king," this phrase refers to a well-established, public road, typically maintained by the ruling authority for trade, communication, and military purposes. By specifying their intent to use only this "king's highway," Israel conveyed a clear message of their non-aggressive posture, indicating they would not deviate into private properties for plunder or sustenance. This term denotes a recognized, official route, reinforcing the formality and specificity of Israel's request for controlled passage.
* **Borders (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwl'_):** Properly meaning "a cord" (as twisted), this word by implication refers to a boundary or the territory enclosed by such a boundary. In this context, "thy borders" clearly defines the geographical limits of Edom's sovereign territory. Israel's promise to not turn "until we have passed thy borders" underscores their commitment to respect Edom's territorial integrity and to exit their land as soon as possible, further assuring Edom of their temporary and non-threatening presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country:"** This opening phrase establishes Moses' polite, humble, and earnest request on behalf of Israel. The phrase "I pray thee" (literally "please") softens the demand, acknowledging Edom's sovereignty over their land and seeking permission rather than asserting a right. This sets a tone of respectful negotiation and deference.
* **"we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards,"** This clause offers a specific and crucial assurance of non-intrusion into Edom's agricultural resources. Fields and vineyards represented the primary means of sustenance and wealth for the Edomites. By explicitly promising to avoid them, Israel commits to not foraging, plundering, or causing any damage to their valuable food sources, thereby alleviating a major concern for the Edomite king.
* **"neither will we drink [of] the water of the wells:"** This promise addresses another critical and often scarce resource in an arid region. Wells were communal or privately owned and vital for survival. A large group like Israel could quickly deplete or contaminate water sources, posing a significant burden or threat. This assurance demonstrates Israel's commitment to self-sufficiency and respect for Edom's limited water supply, further emphasizing their non-burdensome intent.
* **"we will go by the king's [high] way,"** This is the positive declaration of their intended route, specifying the public, recognized thoroughfare. As analyzed above, the "king's highway" was a main road. This commitment means Israel would stick to this main road, avoiding any detours that might be perceived as exploratory, invasive, or threatening, thereby maintaining an orderly and predictable movement.
* **"we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders."** This final, emphatic promise reinforces the previous one, signifying strict adherence to the designated path. It emphasizes disciplined movement and a complete lack of deviation from the "king's highway." The concluding phrase "until we have passed thy borders" clearly defines the temporary and limited nature of their presence, assuring Edom that Israel's sole objective was transit, not occupation or interference, and that they would leave the territory promptly.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 20:17 employs several effective literary devices to convey Israel's earnest and diplomatic intentions. **Repetition** is prominent, particularly with the phrase "we will not," which is used multiple times ("we will not pass through," "neither will we drink," "we will not turn"). This repeated negation serves to underscore the absolute nature of their promises and their unwavering commitment to non-interference. The detailed enumeration of what they *will not* do (pass through fields/vineyards, drink from wells, turn aside) alongside what they *will* do (go by the king's highway) creates a strong sense of **contrast**, highlighting their peaceful and disciplined approach against the potential for conflict or disruption. The language itself is highly **diplomatic** and **persuasive**, carefully crafted to assure the Edomite king of Israel's benign intentions and profound respect for his nation's sovereignty, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to inter-state relations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 20:17 reveals profound theological and thematic insights into God's dealings with His people and their responsibility in the world. It showcases God's people, even under divine leading and with a divine promise of land, engaging in human diplomacy and demonstrating integrity in their interactions with other nations. While God had promised Israel the land of Canaan, He also established boundaries and relationships with other peoples, requiring His covenant nation to act with respect and honor. The detailed promises made by Moses reflect a commitment to ethical conduct, even when dealing with those who might be perceived as obstacles or adversaries. This passage implicitly teaches that divine promises do not negate human responsibility for wise, respectful, and peace-seeking engagement with the world. Even when a direct path seems providentially ordained, human effort in negotiation and demonstration of good faith are still required, trusting God to open the way or provide an alternative if human efforts fail. It is a powerful example of seeking peace as far as it depends on us, while ultimately resting in God's sovereign plan.

* [Deuteronomy 2:4-5](/deuteronomy/2-4-5 "Deuteronomy 2:4-5 - God's Command Not to Provoke Edom")
* [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - The Power of a Gentle Answer")
* [Numbers 20:21](/numbers/20-21 "Numbers 20:21 - Edom's Refusal to Grant Passage")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 20:17 offers a timeless lesson in respectful communication, integrity, and the pursuit of peace, even in challenging circumstances. In our own lives, whether in personal relationships, professional dealings, or community interactions, this verse calls us to adopt a posture of humility and profound respect for others' boundaries and resources. It teaches us the immense value of clear, specific commitments and the importance of demonstrating our good intentions through our words and actions. Even when we believe we are on a divinely appointed path or pursuing a righteous goal, we are still called to navigate the world with wisdom, seeking peaceful resolutions and honoring the sovereignty and dignity of others. While Edom ultimately refused Israel's reasonable request, Moses' approach remains a powerful model for how we, as believers, should engage with those around us. It encourages us to be people of our word, to act with integrity, and to pursue peace as far as it depends on us, knowing that our ultimate trust is in God's sovereign guidance to open the desired path or reveal a better alternative when one door closes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Israel's diplomatic approach in this verse challenge our assumptions about how God's people should interact with those outside their community or those who might oppose them?**
* **In what specific areas of your life are you called to demonstrate greater respect for others' boundaries or resources, even when it might seem inconvenient or unnecessary?**
* **How can we, like Moses, make clear and specific commitments to build trust and avoid misunderstanding in our relationships, both personal and professional?**
* **What does this passage teach us about responding with integrity and continued trust in God even when our reasonable and well-intentioned requests are denied?**

### FAQ
**What was the "king's highway" and why was it significant in this context?**

Answer: The "king's highway" (Hebrew: _derekh hammelekh_) was a major, well-established trade route in the ancient Near East, connecting various kingdoms and cities. In the context of Numbers 20:17, it referred to a specific public road running through Edom's territory, likely a vital artery for commerce and military movement. Its significance lay in its public nature and its strategic importance. By promising to stick exclusively to this highway, Israel assured Edom that they would not deviate into private lands, agricultural areas, or settlements. This commitment minimized any potential disruption, resource depletion, or perceived threat to Edomite sovereignty and security. It was a clear signal of Israel's peaceful and temporary transit intentions, demonstrating their respect for Edomite law and property.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 20:17 depicts a specific historical negotiation for a physical passage, it resonates with deeper Christ-centered truths concerning the ultimate "way" to the true Promised Land. Just as Israel sought a clear, non-deviating path through a potentially hostile world to reach their earthly inheritance, humanity, estranged from God, requires a "way" to the heavenly inheritance. Jesus declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). He is the ultimate "King's Highway," the divinely appointed and perfectly maintained path that leads directly to God's presence. Unlike Edom, who refused passage, Christ has opened the way through His perfect life, atoning sacrifice, and glorious resurrection, inviting all to pass through Him without cost, without fear of depleting His resources, and without needing to turn "to the right hand nor to the left" from His perfect will. His peaceful, non-intrusive approach, culminating in His self-giving on the cross, cleared the path for us, fulfilling the spirit of Israel's request for a peaceful passage, but on a cosmic, eternal scale, leading us to the eternal rest promised in [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "The Sabbath Rest for the People of God"). He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making our passage from death to life, and from earth to glory, not merely possible, but certain.

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.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 2:27

Let me pass through thy land: I will go along by the high way, I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left.

Numbers 21:1

¶ And [when] king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south, heard tell that Israel came by the way of the spies; then he fought against Israel, and took [some] of them prisoners.

Numbers 21:22

Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink [of] the waters of the well: [but] we will go along by the king's [high] way, until we be past thy borders.

Numbers 21:24

And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon unto Jabbok, even unto the children of Ammon: for the border of the children of Ammon [was] strong.

Deuteronomy 2:29

(As the children of Esau which dwell in Seir, and the Moabites which dwell in Ar, did unto me;) until I shall pass over Jordan into the land which the LORD our God giveth us.

Deuteronomy 2:1

¶ Then we turned, and took our journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea, as the LORD spake unto me: and we compassed mount Seir many days.

Deuteronomy 2:4

And command thou the people, saying, Ye [are] to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore: