“And of the children of Israel’s half, which Moses divided from the men that warred,”
This verse is part of the account of the Israelites’ military campaign against the Midianites. In Numbers 31, God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for their seduction of the Israelites into idolatry and sexual immorality. After the battle, the spoils of war were divided among the victorious Israelite soldiers.
In this particular verse, it mentions that Moses divided the spoils of war from the children of Israel’s half. To better understand the context, it’s helpful to read the surrounding verses. Numbers 31:41-43 provides a clearer picture:
“And Moses gave the tribute, which was the LORD’S heave offering, unto Eleazar the priest, as the LORD commanded Moses. And of the children of Israel’s half, which Moses divided from the men that warred, (Now the half that pertained unto the congregation was three hundred thousand and thirty thousand and seven thousand and five hundred sheep, And thirty and six thousand beeves,) And thirty thousand asses and five hundred,” (Numbers 31:41-43, KJV)
In these verses, we learn that Moses took a portion of the spoils of war, known as the “tribute” or “heave offering,” and gave it to Eleazar the priest. This action was in obedience to the Lord’s command. The passage also lists the specific livestock acquired in the campaign, including sheep, cattle (beeves), and donkeys.
This division of spoils reveals how God instructed the Israelites to handle the aftermath of their victory over the Midianites. The spoils were divided between those who actively participated in the battle and the rest of the congregation of Israel.
Overall, Numbers 31:42 emphasizes the equitable distribution of the spoils of war, demonstrating God’s concern for fairness and order even in times of conflict. It also highlights Moses’ role as the leader appointed by God to carry out His commands and ensure that the distribution was done according to His instructions.
It’s important to consider that this passage is part of the historical account of the Israelites and the events they experienced in their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Studying such passages can provide insights into the cultural, religious, and societal aspects of the time, as well as lessons that can be applied to our lives today.
