“And Eleazar the priest said unto the men of war which went to the battle, This is the ordinance of the law which the LORD commanded Moses.”
Numbers 31:21 is part of a passage that describes the aftermath of the Israelites’ battle against the Midianites. This battle was initiated by God’s command to avenge the Israelites for the deceit and seduction of the Midianite women, who had led them to worship the false god Baal of Peor (Numbers 25:1-5).
In this specific verse, Eleazar the priest addresses the men who had gone to battle. His purpose is to communicate God’s instructions to the warriors. This verse indicates that Eleazar is relaying an ordinance of the law given by the Lord to Moses. It signifies that what Eleazar is about to communicate is a divine command that must be followed.
This verse highlights the significance of the role of the priest in conveying God’s instructions to the people. Eleazar serves as a mediator between God and the people, ensuring that they understand and obey the commands of the Lord.
It’s important to note that studying this verse in isolation may not provide the complete understanding of the passage or its context. To gain a more comprehensive grasp of Numbers 31, it is recommended to read the entire chapter. Doing so will offer insights into the background, events, and the specific ordinances given by God.
By exploring the broader context of Numbers 31, one can understand the historical and theological significance of the battle against the Midianites and the implementation of God’s commands through His appointed priests. This passage also underscores the importance of obedience to God’s instructions and the role of spiritual leadership in guiding the community of believers.
As you continue your study, it may be beneficial to consult additional commentaries, cross-references, and resources to gain a deeper understanding of the historical, cultural, and theological aspects related to Numbers 31:21.
