Numbers 32:34

And the children of Gad built Dibon, and Ataroth, and Aroer, Numbers 32:34 (KJV)

Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and focuses on the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In Numbers 32, the tribes of Gad and Reuben, along with half the tribe of Manasseh, make a request to Moses to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River, rather than crossing over to Canaan with the rest of the Israelites. Their request is granted with the condition that they join their fellow Israelites in conquering the land before they can settle down.

Explanation: In Numbers 32:34 the verse states that the children of Gad built three cities—Dibon, Ataroth, and Aroer—as part of occupying the land east of the Jordan River, which was given as their inheritance. Dibon was a city located east of the Jordan River in the territory of Gad. It is mentioned in several other passages of the Bible, including Numbers 21:30, Isaiah 15:5 and Isaiah 15:2. The Moabites were initially in possession of Dibon, but it was eventually conquered by the Israelites. Ataroth was another city within the territory of Gad, located east of the Jordan. It is referenced in Joshua 16:5 as Ataroth‑addar, a name variation of the same location, and appears in various biblical passages. Aroer was yet another city that the children of Gad constructed in their allotted territory. Aroer is mentioned numerous times throughout the Bible, including Numbers 21:28, Joshua 13:25, Joshua 13:16, and Judges 11:3, and the reference here is understood to be the Aroer in the territory of Gad. These cities played a significant role in settling the land east of the Jordan River and securing the inheritance of the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh.

Application: Although Numbers 32:34 may seem like a simple listing of cities, it reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities and commitments. The tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh had requested to settle in a specific area, but their settlement was conditional upon their participation in the conquest of the Promised Land alongside their fellow Israelites. Similarly, as believers, we are called to actively participate in God’s work and fulfill our responsibilities within the community of believers. We must not shy away from the tasks and assignments God has given us, but rather engage with enthusiasm and dedication. The construction of these cities also showcases the importance of establishing and maintaining physical structures and places where people can dwell and thrive, reminding us that God is interested in the physical and practical aspects of our lives as well. In summary, Numbers 32:34 highlights the fulfillment of the tribes of Gad’s request to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River by building the cities of Dibon, Ataroth, and Aroer, encouraging us to faithfully fulfill our commitments and engage in God’s work, both spiritually and practically.