“And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular passage, the tribes of Reuben and Gad approached Moses with a request to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, rather than entering Canaan with the rest of the Israelites.
Geographic Locations: Numbers 32:36 mentions two cities, Bethnimrah and Bethharan. These were fortified cities, indicating their strategic importance and the presence of defensive structures. Though not extensively mentioned in the Bible, they likely served as significant locations for the Israelites during their conquest of the Promised Land.
Reuben and Gad’s Request: The tribes of Reuben and Gad were primarily livestock breeders and possessed a large number of livestock. When they saw that the land on the east side of the Jordan was suitable for their flocks and herds, they requested to settle there rather than in Canaan. Moses initially expressed concern that this would discourage the rest of the tribes from entering the Promised Land, but an agreement was eventually reached. However, it was stipulated that they had to help their fellow Israelites conquer the land of Canaan before they could settle on the east side of the Jordan.
Significance of Fenced Cities: The mention of fenced cities in Numbers 32:36 indicates that the cities of Bethnimrah and Bethharan had defensive walls or structures to protect their inhabitants from enemy attacks. The presence of such cities would have provided security and served as strongholds for the Israelites in their settlement of the Promised Land.
Folds for Sheep: The verse also mentions folds for sheep, which are enclosures or pens used for keeping sheep. This indicates that the area had suitable pastureland for the flocks and herds of the tribes of Reuben and Gad. It highlights their primary occupation as livestock breeders and suggests that they had abundant grazing areas for their animals in the land they requested.
Lessons and Applications: This passage reminds us of the importance of considering the needs and occupations of others within the community of believers. Reuben and Gad had legitimate concerns about their livestock and requested land suitable for their flocks. However, they also recognized the importance of fulfilling their commitment to help their fellow Israelites conquer Canaan. This teaches us the value of balancing personal interests with communal responsibilities and considering the well-being of the larger body of believers.
Additionally, the mention of fenced cities and folds for sheep highlights the practical aspects of settling in a new land. It reveals the need for security and sustenance, reminding us to be mindful of both physical and spiritual needs as we seek to establish ourselves and fulfill our calling in the places where God has positioned us.
Overall, Numbers 32:36 provides insights into the specific requests and settlements of the tribes of Reuben and Gad and encourages us to consider the balance between personal interests and communal responsibilities within the context of our own lives and communities.
