“And threescore and twelve thousand beeves,”
Context: Numbers 31 is a chapter that describes the aftermath of the battle between the Israelites and the Midianites. God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites because they had seduced the Israelites into idolatry and immorality. In this verse, we see the enumeration of the spoils of war that the Israelites acquired after their victory.
The Numerical Enumeration: In Numbers 31:33, three different categories are mentioned: “beeves” (cattle or oxen), “asses” (donkeys), and “persons.” The verse provides specific numbers for each category: 72,000 cattle, 61,000 donkeys, and 32,000 virgin women.
Symbolism and Significance:
- Cattle: The large number of cattle captured indicates the material wealth gained by the Israelites in the form of livestock. In an agrarian society like ancient Israel, cattle were a symbol of prosperity and economic abundance.
- Donkeys: Donkeys were used as working animals and were considered valuable possessions. The significant number of donkeys implies that the Israelites acquired a considerable amount of wealth through the spoils of war.
- Virgin Women: The mention of 32,000 virgin women raises ethical questions and requires careful interpretation. It is important to note that the Israelites were specifically instructed to kill all the Midianite adult males (Numbers 31:7). The women who were taken captive were primarily young virgins who had not known a man intimately. While the verse may seem troubling from a modern perspective, it needs to be understood within the historical and cultural context of warfare during that time.
Lessons and Application:
- Faithfulness to God’s Commands: The battle against the Midianites reflects God’s judgment on a people who led the Israelites astray. It highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commands and not succumbing to the temptations of idolatry and immorality.
- Responsibility and Stewardship: The spoils of war obtained by the Israelites remind us of the need to be responsible stewards of the blessings and resources God provides. It is crucial to handle material wealth with integrity, using it wisely and for God’s glory.
- Cultural Context and Moral Progression: While the mention of the captive women raises ethical concerns, it is essential to recognize the progress in moral values throughout the Bible. The Bible records events within specific historical contexts, and as God’s revelation unfolds, it brings greater clarity on issues such as the dignity and value of all individuals.
It’s important to approach challenging passages like Numbers 31:33 with sensitivity and seek a comprehensive understanding of the historical, cultural, and theological context. Consulting commentaries and seeking guidance from trusted spiritual leaders can provide further insights.
