“And the Lord said unto Moses, Get thee up into this mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given unto the children of Israel.”
This verse is part of a significant event in the book of Numbers, where the daughters of Zelophehad approached Moses and the leaders of Israel with a concern regarding their inheritance in the Promised Land. Zelophehad had passed away and left no sons, which raised a question about whether his daughters should receive a portion of the land as an inheritance. The leaders were uncertain about how to proceed, so they brought the matter before the Lord.
In response, the Lord commanded Moses to ascend Mount Abarim, from where he would be able to see the land that was destined for the Israelites. It is important to note that this was a unique privilege granted to Moses, as he had led the Israelites out of Egypt and faithfully carried out God’s instructions throughout their wilderness journey.
By instructing Moses to view the Promised Land, God reaffirmed His commitment to fulfill the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob-to give the land of Canaan as an inheritance to the children of Israel. This act served as a reassurance to Moses, the leaders, and the people that despite their current challenges and uncertainties, God would indeed bring them into the land He had promised.
Beyond the immediate context, this verse also carries symbolic significance. Mount Abarim, where Moses was instructed to go, is thought to be the collective name for a range of mountains, including Mount Nebo, where Moses eventually died and was buried. From this vantage point, Moses was able to see the land, but he himself would not enter it. This act foreshadowed the consequence of Moses’ disobedience at the waters of Meribah (Numbers 20:12), which resulted in him being prohibited from entering the Promised Land.
In summary, Numbers 27:12 serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises and His unique relationship with Moses as the leader of Israel. It highlights the importance of obedience and the consequences that can follow when we disobey God’s commands. It also emphasizes the enduring nature of God’s covenant with the Israelites and His commitment to bring them into the land He had promised.
