“Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land of Canaan; (this is the land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance, even the land of Canaan with the coasts thereof”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and is a continuation of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses receives instructions from God to command the children of Israel regarding the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes.
Promised Land: The land of Canaan was the Promised Land that God had pledged to give to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. After years of slavery in Egypt, the Israelites were about to enter the land of Canaan as a fulfillment of God’s covenant with their forefathers.
Inheritance: The land of Canaan was to be divided among the twelve tribes of Israel as their inheritance. Each tribe was assigned a portion of the land based on their size and the number of their clans. This division of the land ensured that each tribe had a designated territory to settle in and possess.
God’s Faithfulness: The verse emphasizes God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. The land of Canaan was not only a physical territory but a symbol of God’s provision, blessings, and presence among His chosen people.
Importance of Land: The land of Canaan held significant religious and historical importance for the Israelites. It was the land where their ancestors lived, where God appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and where important events in their history took place. The possession of the land would establish their identity as a nation and enable them to worship God according to His laws.
Obedience: God commanded Moses to ensure that the Israelites followed His instructions concerning the division of the land. Obedience to God’s commands was crucial for the successful establishment of their inheritance in the Promised Land.
Spiritual Application: While this verse specifically addresses the Israelites’ entry into the physical land of Canaan, it holds spiritual lessons for believers today. Christians are called to inherit the promises of God, which include salvation, eternal life, and the blessings of His kingdom. Just as the Israelites needed to follow God’s instructions to possess the land, believers today must walk in obedience to God’s Word to experience the fullness of His promises.
In conclusion, Numbers 34:28 in the King James Version highlights the command given to the Israelites regarding the division of the land of Canaan. It reveals God’s faithfulness, the importance of obedience, and holds spiritual significance for believers today as they seek to inherit the promises of God in their lives.