Numbers 34:13

And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This [is] the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which the LORD commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half tribe:

And Moses {H4872} commanded {H6680} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, saying {H559}, This is the land {H776} which ye shall inherit {H5157} by lot {H1486}, which the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} to give {H5414} unto the nine {H8672} tribes {H4294}, and to the half {H2677} tribe {H4294}:

Moshe gave this order to the people of Isra'el: "This is the land in which you will receive inheritances by lot, which ADONAI has ordered to give to the nine tribes and the half-tribe.

So Moses commanded the Israelites, “Apportion this land by lot as an inheritance. The LORD has commanded that it be given to the nine and a half tribes.

And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which Jehovah hath commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half-tribe;

Commentary

Numbers 34:13 serves as a pivotal verse, where Moses formally relays God's command regarding the precise method and recipients for the division of the Promised Land. This declaration underscores the divine authority behind the land's distribution, ensuring that the inheritance of Canaan would be carried out according to God's specific will.

Context

This verse is situated within a detailed section of Numbers (chapters 33-36) that outlines the preparations for the Israelites' entry into and settlement of the land of Canaan after their forty years of wilderness wandering. Numbers 34 specifically delineates the exact boundaries of the land and the method for its distribution. Importantly, the "nine tribes, and to the half tribe" mentioned here are those who had not yet received their inheritance. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh had already secured their territory on the east side of the Jordan River (Numbers 32:33). The command to distribute the land "by lot" was a crucial element, signifying that the allocation was not based on human negotiation or might, but on divine guidance, a principle later implemented in the book of Joshua when the land was truly divided (Joshua 14:2).

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Provision: The phrase "which the LORD commanded to give" powerfully emphasizes that the land was a direct gift from God, a fulfillment of His ancient promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). The distribution "by lot" reinforced God's ultimate control over each tribe's specific portion, leaving no room for human manipulation or favoritism.
  • Inheritance and Possession: The land was not merely conquered territory but a divinely appointed "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah), signifying a permanent, generational possession. This concept is central to Israel's identity and their relationship with God, providing a place of rest and security after their long journey.
  • Order and Justice: The use of the lot system, while seemingly random, was understood in ancient Israel as a means by which God's will was revealed, ensuring an impartial and just distribution of the land. This divinely ordained method prevented disputes and established a clear, equitable system for land ownership.

Linguistic Insights

The term "lot" translates the Hebrew word goral (גּוֹרָל), which refers to a small stone or object cast to make decisions or determine portions. In biblical contexts, casting lots was often seen as a way to discern God's will, as Proverbs 16:33 states, "The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD." This highlights that even in seemingly random events, God's hand is at work. The verb "commanded" (צָוָה, tsavah) signifies a direct, authoritative instruction from God to Moses, emphasizing the binding nature of the divine decree.

Practical Application

Numbers 34:13 serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness, meticulous planning, and sovereign control. Just as He precisely allotted the land to the tribes of Israel, we can trust in His divine provision and guidance in our own lives. For believers today, this concept resonates with our spiritual inheritance in Christ, which is not earned but freely given by God's grace (Ephesians 1:11). It encourages us to trust God's perfect plan and timing, knowing that He works all things together for the good of those who love Him, according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 14:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And these [are the countries] which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed for inheritance to them.

  • Joshua 14:5 (2 votes)

    As the LORD commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did, and they divided the land.

  • Numbers 34:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,