“Defile not therefore the land which ye shall inhabit, wherein I dwell: for I the LORD dwell among the children of Israel.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible, and it primarily focuses on the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In Numbers 35, God gives instructions regarding the cities of refuge and the responsibilities of the Levites and the community in regard to accidental manslaughter.
The Land of Inheritance:God had promised the land of Canaan as an inheritance to the Israelites, and He wanted to ensure that the land remained holy and set apart. In Numbers 35:34, God commands the people not to defile the land they were about to inhabit. The land was a gift from God, and He wanted it to be a place where He could dwell among His people.
Divine Presence:The verse emphasises that God dwells among the children of Israel. This divine presence in their midst was a unique privilege given to the Israelites. God chose to dwell among His people to guide, protect, and bless them. The tabernacle, which was the central place of worship, served as a visible reminder of God’s presence.
Moral and Spiritual Implications:The command not to defile the land carries moral and spiritual implications. God desired for His people to live in obedience to His laws and commandments. By keeping the land pure and undefiled, the Israelites were demonstrating their commitment to holiness and righteousness before God. It reminds us that God cares about how we live and the choices we make, even in our physical surroundings.
Application for Today:Though the verse specifically applies to the ancient Israelites and the land of Canaan, there are lessons we can draw from it for our lives today. We can reflect on the importance of living in a way that honours God, both individually and collectively as a community of believers. It reminds us to be mindful of our actions, choices, and the impact they have on the environment, relationships, and society.
God’s Presence in the New Testament:In the New Testament, the concept of God dwelling among His people is further developed. Through Jesus Christ, God came to dwell among humanity in the form of the incarnate Word (John 1:14). After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, God sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within believers, making them the temple of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). This highlights the importance of personal purity and sanctification as we carry God’s presence within us.
In conclusion, Numbers 35:34 reminds us of God’s desire for His people to live in holiness and to honour Him in their actions. It teaches us the importance of maintaining a pure and righteous environment, both physically and spiritually. As believers, we are called to be mindful of our choices and strive to live in a way that reflects God’s presence in our lives.
