“And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the highway: and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it: I will only, without doing anything else, go through on my feet.”
This verse is part of the narrative found in Numbers 20, which recounts an incident during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. In this chapter, the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, have been wandering for many years following their liberation from slavery in Egypt. They are in need of water, and God instructs Moses to speak to a specific rock to bring forth water for the people to drink.
However, Moses, feeling frustrated and provoked by the complaining Israelites, instead of speaking to the rock, strikes it with his staff twice. Water still comes out, satisfying the people’s thirst, but God is displeased with Moses and his brother Aaron for their lack of faith and obedience.
In verse 19, the children of Israel approach the Edomites, a neighboring nation, requesting permission to pass through their land. They express their intention to use the highway and acknowledge that if they or their animals drink the water, they are willing to pay for it.
This verse highlights a couple of significant points. Firstly, it shows the Israelites’ desire to avoid conflict and peacefully traverse the land of the Edomites. They seek permission rather than taking the route forcefully. It demonstrates their willingness to respect the boundaries and property of others.
Secondly, the verse displays the Israelites’ understanding of the need for compensation. They offer to pay for any water consumed by them or their livestock. This demonstrates a sense of fairness and an acknowledgment of the value of resources.
However, it is important to note that despite the seemingly righteous intentions expressed in this verse, Moses’ actions and the subsequent events in Numbers 20 serve as a cautionary tale. Moses’ disobedience and lack of faith in striking the rock instead of speaking to it led to severe consequences.
God had instructed Moses to speak to the rock, but in his frustration, Moses acted out of anger and impatience. As a result, God informs Moses and Aaron that they will not be allowed to enter the Promised Land because they did not honor God as holy before the people.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and trust in God’s instructions, even in moments of frustration or difficulty. It teaches us to seek God’s guidance and not rely on our own understanding or impulsive actions. It reminds us that obedience to God’s commands is crucial and has consequences.
In summary, Numbers 20:19 showcases the Israelites’ approach to the Edomites, demonstrating their desire for peaceful passage and their willingness to compensate for any resources they consume. However, the broader context of the chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s instructions and the consequences of disobedience, as seen through Moses’ actions and the subsequent judgment he faced.
