Leviticus 24:10

¶ And the son of an Israelitish woman, whose father [was] an Egyptian, went out among the children of Israel: and this son of the Israelitish [woman] and a man of Israel strove together in the camp;

And the son {H1121} of an Israelitish {H3482} woman {H802}, whose father {H1121} was an Egyptian {H376}{H4713}, went out {H3318} among {H8432} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}{H3481}: and this son {H1121} of the Israelitish {H3482} woman and a man {H376} of Israel {H3478} strove together {H5327} in the camp {H4264};

There was a man who was the son of a woman of Isra'el and an Egyptian father. He went out among the people of Isra'el, and this son of a woman of Isra'el had a fight in the camp with a man of Isra'el,

Now the son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father went out among the Israelites, and a fight broke out in the camp between him and an Israelite.

And the son of an Israelitish woman, whose father was an Egyptian, went out among the children of Israel; and the son of the Israelitish woman and a man of Israel strove together in the camp:

Commentary

Leviticus 24:10 introduces a pivotal incident that sets the stage for God's clear pronouncement on blasphemy and the sanctity of His name. This verse describes a specific conflict within the Israelite camp, highlighting the challenges of maintaining peace and divine order among a diverse people.

Context

This verse takes place during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, shortly after the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle service and various laws have been given. Leviticus, as a whole, focuses on God's holiness and the means by which a sinful people can approach and serve a holy God. The narrative here pivots from ritual laws to a real-world legal case that necessitates divine judgment.

The individual at the center of this dispute is significant: "the son of an Israelitish woman, whose father was an Egyptian." This detail points to the "mixed multitude" that came out of Egypt with the Israelites (Exodus 12:38). Their presence introduced diverse customs and beliefs into the nascent nation, occasionally leading to tension and challenges to the Mosaic Law. The dispute itself, "strove together in the camp," indicates a strong quarrel or contention that escalated, requiring intervention.

Key Themes

  • Conflict and Disorder: The verse immediately brings to light the reality of human conflict, even within God's chosen community. It underscores that disputes can arise from various sources and among individuals of differing backgrounds.
  • The Mixed Multitude: The background of the individual involved emphasizes the presence of non-Israelites (or those of mixed heritage) living among God's people. This raised questions about their integration and adherence to the covenant laws.
  • Divine Justice and Law: This incident is not merely a historical anecdote but a legal precedent. It serves as the immediate catalyst for God to establish a specific, severe law concerning blasphemy, demonstrating His commitment to upholding His name and maintaining order within the camp.
  • Escalation of Sin: While the verse only mentions the strife, the subsequent verses reveal that this quarrel led to the blasphemy of God's name, illustrating how seemingly minor conflicts can escalate into serious transgressions.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "strove together" comes from the Hebrew word nātsah (נָצָה), which implies a strong contention, quarrel, or even fighting. It suggests a significant dispute, not just a casual disagreement, highlighting the intensity of the conflict that led to the subsequent events.

Practical Application

Leviticus 24:10, though describing an ancient incident, offers timeless lessons:

  • The Seriousness of Conflict: It reminds us that unresolved disputes can quickly escalate and lead to greater sin, such as disrespect for God or others. This underscores the importance of seeking reconciliation and resolving conflicts peacefully.
  • God's Demand for Order: Even in the wilderness, God established clear laws and expected His people to live in an orderly fashion. This principle applies today within communities and churches, where peace and respect are paramount.
  • The Sanctity of God's Name: This verse foreshadows the severe judgment against blasphemy. It serves as a strong reminder of the reverence due to God's name and the dangers of taking it in vain, a principle echoed throughout Scripture (Exodus 20:7).

This seemingly simple verse is a crucial narrative link, demonstrating how God's laws were not abstract pronouncements but were given in response to real-life situations, guiding His people towards holiness and justice.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 11:4 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the mixt multitude that [was] among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?

  • Exodus 12:38 (2 votes)

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