Keraia
Numbers 10

Numbers 10:31

From Sinai to Paran · Numbers 10:11–36
Read Numbers 10

Translations

Modern
“Please do not leave us,” Moses said, “since you know where we should camp in the wilderness, and you can serve as our eyes.
Traditional
And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.
Literal
And Moses said, “Please do not leave us, for upon thus you know how we are to camp in the wilderness, and you can be our eyes.
Latin
Et ille: Noli, inquit, nos relinquere: tu enim nosti in quibus locis per desertum castra ponere debeamus, et eris ductor noster.

Original

Hebrew
English
“Please do not leave us,” Moses said, “since you know where we should camp in the wilderness, and you can serve as our eyes.

Notes

Numbers 10:29–32

  • After the journey toward Paran began, Moses asked his brother-in-law, Hobab, to guide the Israelites (literally and you will serve for us for eyes) (compare Judges 4:11). In this way, Hobab would share in their promised blessings. As a Midianite shepherd, Hobab knew the routes and possible sources of food and water in the Sinai Peninsula.

  • Reuel the Midianite: See “Jethro (Reuel)” Profile.

  • my own land and my own people: Midian was probably in northwestern Arabia. Judges 1:16 suggests that Hobab accepted the request.

Numbers 10:11–36

Leaving Sinai was a key moment in Israel's history. The Israelites now had the law and God would test them on how they obeyed it. The departure from Sinai marked the start of the march toward Canaan, although it became a long journey (compare Deuteronomy 1:6–8, 19). This passage summarizes the daily routines during the journey.

Theme notes and profiles

Jethro (Reuel) Moses

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Deuteronomy, Book of Jethro Kenites Midian, Midianite Numbers, Book of

Topics

Deserts: Guides Required In Israel: March out of the Wilderness The Eye: Actions of, Mentioned in Scripture: Directing The Kenites: Moses: Invited, to Accompany Israel Travellers: Often Engaged Persons Acquainted with the Country As Guides