Numbers 20:19

KJV

And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the high way: and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it: I will only, without [doing] any thing [else], go through on my feet.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} said {H559} unto him, We will go {H5927} by the high way {H4546}: and if I and my cattle {H4735} drink {H8354} of thy water {H4325}, then I will pay {H5414}{H4377} for it: I will only, without doing any thing {H1697} else, go through {H5674} on my feet {H7272}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The people of Isra'el replied, "We will keep to the highway; if we do drink the water, either we or our livestock, we will pay for it. Just let us pass through on foot - it's nothing."

Berean Standard Bible

“We will stay on the main road,” the Israelites replied, “and if we or our herds drink your water, we will pay for it. There will be no problem; only let us pass through on foot.”

American Standard Version

And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go up by the highway; and if we drink of thy water, I and my cattle, then will I give the price thereof: let me only, without doing anything else, pass through on my feet.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 20:19 captures the earnest and humble plea of the Israelites to the Edomites for peaceful passage through their territory. Following an initial refusal, this verse details Israel's renewed, diplomatic request, emphasizing their commitment to non-interference and their willingness to pay for any resources consumed. It highlights a critical juncture in their arduous wilderness journey, underscoring their practical needs and their desire to maintain peace with a kindred nation, even as they press towards the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated in the latter part of Israel's forty-year wilderness wandering, specifically after the death of Miriam at Kadesh ([Numbers 20:1](/numbers/20-1 "Numbers 20:1 - Miriam's Death at Kadesh")). The narrative immediately preceding this request details the lack of water at Meribah and Moses' disobedient act of striking the rock instead of speaking to it, resulting in God's judgment that he and Aaron would not enter the Promised Land ([Numbers 20:11-12](/numbers/20-11 "Numbers 20:11-12 - Moses' Sin at Meribah")). With the generation of disbelievers having largely passed away, the new generation is poised to enter Canaan, but they face the immediate logistical challenge of navigating the mountainous terrain of Edom. Their request for passage is a practical necessity for their journey, following a period of divine judgment and renewed focus on their ultimate destination.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, making them distant relatives to the Israelites ([Genesis 36:1](/genesis/36-1 "Genesis 36:1 - Esau's Descendants")). This familial tie likely influenced Israel's diplomatic approach, as they sought peaceful transit rather than confrontation. The "high way" mentioned in the KJV translates the Hebrew `derekh hammelekh` (דרך המלך), known historically as the King's Highway. This was a vital ancient trade route running north-south through Transjordan, connecting major centers from Egypt to Mesopotamia. It was the most direct and efficient route for Israel to bypass the rugged Edomite highlands. In the ancient Near East, it was customary to seek permission and often offer payment for passage through foreign territories, especially for large groups, to ensure no disruption or resource depletion. Israel's offer to pay for water and their promise of non-interference align perfectly with these diplomatic norms, demonstrating their good faith.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 20:19 encapsulates several significant themes. It powerfully illustrates **Diplomacy and Humility**, as a divinely-backed nation, despite its vast numbers and miraculous provision, approaches a neighboring people with a respectful and humble request, prioritizing peaceful coexistence over forceful assertion. This act also demonstrates **Respect for Sovereignty**, as Israel explicitly acknowledges Edom's territorial rights and resources by offering to "pay for it" if they or their livestock consume water. Their commitment to "without [doing] any thing [else], go through on my feet" underscores **Commitment to Non-Interference**, emphasizing their strict adherence to the main thoroughfare and their promise not to divert, cause damage, or engage in any hostile actions. Finally, the request highlights the sheer **Necessity** of their situation, revealing the immense logistical challenges of sustaining a vast population in the wilderness and the practical need for a direct route to continue their journey toward the land promised to their ancestors ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **High way (Hebrew, _derekh hammelekh'_):** This phrase literally means "the king's road" or "the King's Highway." It refers to a well-established, ancient trade route that traversed the Transjordan region. By specifically requesting this route, Israel signals their intention to use a recognized, public thoroughfare, not to cut through private lands or sensitive areas, reinforcing their peaceful intent and adherence to established pathways.
* **Pay (Hebrew, _kesseph'_):** The Hebrew word `kesseph` primarily means "silver" or "money." Israel's offer to "pay for it" is a concrete demonstration of their willingness to compensate Edom for any resources consumed, particularly water, which was precious in the arid region. This offer underscores their respect for Edom's sovereignty and their desire to avoid being a burden or perceived as invaders. It's an act of good faith and a pledge of integrity.
* **On my feet (Hebrew, _bereglayim'_):** This phrase emphasizes that their passage would be strictly on foot, implying no use of chariots, large military formations, or any actions that could be construed as an invasion or a threat. It conveys their vulnerability and their singular focus on simple, direct transit, further reinforcing their promise of non-interference and peaceful intent.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the high way":** This clause initiates Israel's direct and specific request to the King of Edom (or his representatives). Their choice of the "high way" (the King's Highway) indicates their pragmatic desire for the most direct and well-known route, while also implicitly assuring Edom that they would stick to a public thoroughfare.
* **"and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it":** This conditional clause highlights Israel's proactive offer of compensation. Recognizing the scarcity of water in the wilderness and the potential burden a large multitude could place on Edom's resources, Israel pledges to purchase any water consumed by both people and livestock. This demonstrates their respect for Edom's property rights and their commitment to fairness.
* **"I will only, without [doing] any thing [else], go through on my feet":** This final clause strongly emphasizes Israel's limited and peaceful objective. The phrase "without [doing] any thing [else]" serves as a solemn promise of non-aggression and non-diversion from the main road. The specification "go through on my feet" reinforces their intention for simple, unthreatening transit, assuring Edom that their presence would be temporary and their actions strictly confined to passage.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Diplomacy** and **Supplication**, presenting Israel's request in a respectful and deferential manner despite their large numbers and divine backing. There is a strong use of **Emphasis** through the repeated assurances of their peaceful intentions and commitment to non-interference ("We will go by the high way," "I will pay for it," "without [doing] any thing [else], go through on my feet"). This repetition underscores their earnest desire to avoid conflict and build trust. The situation also contains an element of **Irony**, as Israel, a nation with a divine mandate and a powerful God, must humbly request passage from a related but hostile nation, foreshadowing the complexities and challenges of their journey and the eventual need for God's alternative provision.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 20:19 reveals a profound theological truth about God's people navigating a fallen world: even when divinely appointed and under God's sovereign guidance, there is a responsibility to pursue peace and act with integrity in human relations. Israel's humble request, despite their strength and divine backing, teaches the importance of diplomacy and respect for others' sovereignty, even with those who may become adversaries. It underscores that God's plan often involves human interaction and negotiation, and that His people are called to be a witness through their conduct. While their request was ultimately denied, their posture demonstrates a commitment to exhaust all peaceful avenues before resorting to other means, trusting God to provide a way, even if it's not the one they initially sought.

* [Deuteronomy 2:1-8](/deuteronomy/2-1 "Deuteronomy 2:1-8 - Israel's Detour Around Edom")
* [Proverbs 16:7](/proverbs/16-7 "Proverbs 16:7 - When a Man's Ways Please the Lord")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Living Peaceably with All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 20:19 offers timeless lessons for navigating life's obstacles with grace and integrity. In our own journeys, we frequently encounter "Edoms"—situations or people who stand between us and our desired path. This verse encourages us to approach such obstacles with humility and respect, even when we believe we have a right or a need. It teaches the power of respectful negotiation and the importance of demonstrating good faith, offering to bear our own costs and promising non-interference. Our integrity in agreements, our willingness to pay our way, and our commitment to our word are powerful testimonies. While Israel's immediate request was denied, forcing them to take a longer route, their peaceful approach honored God. This reminds us that even when our best efforts at diplomacy fail, God remains sovereign and will ultimately lead us to our destination, often through unexpected or circuitous paths. Our task is to walk in integrity, trust in His guidance, and remain committed to peace as far as it depends on us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Israel's humble approach to Edom challenge our natural inclination to assert our rights or strength in difficult situations?**
* **In what areas of your life are you currently facing an "Edom" that requires a diplomatic and respectful approach?**
* **What does Israel's offer to "pay for it" teach us about integrity and responsibility in our dealings with others, even those who may be hostile?**
* **How can we maintain trust in God's leading when our preferred "high way" is blocked and we are forced to take a longer, more difficult route?**

### FAQ
**Why did Israel even need to ask Edom for permission, given God's promise of the land?**

Answer: While God had promised the land of Canaan to Israel, the Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and God had specifically commanded Israel to respect their territory. [Deuteronomy 2:4-5](/deuteronomy/2-4 "Deuteronomy 2:4-5 - God's Command Regarding Edom") records God's instruction to Israel regarding Edom: "You are about to pass through the territory of your brothers, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir... Do not provoke them, for I will not give you any of their land, not even a foot of it, because I have given Mount Seir to Esau as his possession." Therefore, Israel's request for passage was not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith in God's promise, but an act of obedience to God's specific command to respect the boundaries of their kinsmen. It was a practical necessity for transit, not an attempt to claim Edomite land.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 20:19, with Israel's earnest plea for passage on the "high way," foreshadows humanity's desperate search for a way to God and the ultimate provision found in Christ. Israel sought a physical "King's Highway" to reach their promised rest, a path that was direct and efficient. Yet, this path was denied by human resistance, forcing them onto a longer, more arduous journey. Spiritually, humanity, alienated from God by sin, likewise seeks a "way" back to Him, often through human effort, good works, or religious rituals—attempts to "pay for it" or "go through on our own feet." However, these human efforts, like Israel's denied request, ultimately fall short. The true and only "High Way" to the Father is Jesus Christ. He declared, "I am [the way, the truth, and the life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). No one comes to the Father except through me." Unlike the Edomites, who denied passage, Christ freely offers Himself as the access point. He is our new and living way, inaugurated through His sacrifice on the cross ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - The New and Living Way")). He is the ultimate "King's Highway," not merely a path to a physical land, but the very means of reconciliation and eternal life, breaking down the wall of hostility and making peace through His blood ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")).

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 2:28

Thou shalt sell me meat for money, that I may eat; and give me water for money, that I may drink: only I will pass through on my feet;

Deuteronomy 2:6

Ye shall buy meat of them for money, that ye may eat; and ye shall also buy water of them for money, that ye may drink.

Exodus 12:38

And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, [even] very much cattle.