What does Numbers 32:2 mean?

The children of Gad and the children of Reuben came and spake unto Moses, and to Eleazar the priest, and unto the princes of the congregation, saying, Numbers 32:2

Explanation

The verse Numbers 32:2 is one wherein the children of the tribes of Gad and Reuben approach Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the Israelite community. The phrase “children of” refers to the members of these two tribes. They come to make a request regarding the land that the Israelites have conquered on the east of the Jordan River, specifically the territories that used to belong to the Amorites. This verse sets the stage for a negotiation between the two tribes and the leadership of the Israelite community concerning their inheritance.

Historical Context

The historical context of Numbers 32:2 is set during the Israelite’s wanderings in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt and before their entrance into the Promised Land, Canaan. Moses is leading the Israelites, and at this point in the narrative, they have conquered lands on the east side of the Jordan River. The tribes of Gad and Reuben were primarily pastoral, and finding the newly conquered lands suitable for their livestock, they desired to settle there rather than continue to the territory west of the Jordan.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse highlights themes such as stewardship of land, the community’s collective journey versus individual tribe’s desires, and the concept of inheritance promised by God to the Israelites. Different theological viewpoints might consider whether the request by the tribes of Gad and Reuben indicates a lack of faith in God’s promise, or simply practical decision-making aligned with their social and economic needs.

Practical Applications

In a modern context, Numbers 32:2 can inspire discussions about balancing communal responsibilities with personal or group-specific requests. It can also relate to how leaders should engage with and respond to different interests within a community, being fair and considerate of diverse needs while maintaining a focus on collective goals.

Cross-References

• Numbers 32:1 – “Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place was a place for cattle;”
• Numbers 32:5 – “Wherefore, said they, if we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan.”
• Deuteronomy 3:12 – “And this land, which we possessed at that time, from Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, and half mount Gilead, and the cities thereof, gave I unto the Reubenites and to the Gadites.”

Language Study

An analysis of key words in the original Hebrew provides insight into the verse:

• “Children” (בְּנֵי): This word used in the original text can mean “sons” or “descendants” and by extension indicates members of a tribe.
• “Gad” (גָּד) and “Reuben” (רְאוּבֵן): These are the names of Israelite tribes, descended from two of Jacob’s, also known as Israel, twelve sons.
• “Came” (וַיָּגִ֙שׁוּ֙): This verb denotes approaching or drawing near, often used to indicate the initiation of a dialogue or presenting oneself before a superior.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The asking for land inheritance as seen in Numbers 32:2 reflects broader ancient Near Eastern practices where land was central to familial and tribal identity. In other ancient cultures, like those of the Canaanites, land was often tied to agrarian and religious life, with each local deity associated with the fertility of the land.

Scientific Perspectives

While not directly related to scientific discourse, the concept of land allocation might invite discussions on sustainable land use and pastoral versus agricultural societies, viewed from an anthropological and environmental science standpoint.

commentaries

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary notes that the request of the tribes of Gad and Reuben shows a value for their possessions and a request meant to provide for their families, but also suggests a risk of them separating from the rest of Israel.
• The Pulpit Commentary observes that this approach by the two tribes could have resulted in negative outcomes, such as division, and raises questions about their motives and priorities.
• The Jewish Study Bible discusses the portrayal of the Transjordan tribes as understanding the importance of unity and communal responsibility after Moses challenges their initial request.