Numbers 13:1

The Spies Explore Canaan · Numbers 13:1–24

Read Numbers 13

Translations

Modern

And the LORD said to Moses,

Traditional

And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

Literal

And YHWH spoke to Moses, saying,

Latin

Ibique locutus est Dominus ad Moysen, dicens:

Original

Hebrew

English

And the LORD said to Moses,

Notes

Numbers 13:1–16

Moses chose a leader from each tribe to explore the land God promised to the Hebrews. The tribes listed are from chapter 1, but the order is different. Caleb and Joshua later prove to be men of faith (14:30).

Numbers 13:1–14:45

Twelve spies explored the fertile land of Canaan and found strong enemies defending it. Earlier chapters show Israel's disobedience, hinting at future failures. The Israelites did not have the obedience, courage, or faith to capture the land. So, the Lord made them spend 40 years in the Wilderness of Sinai. That generation did not receive their inheritance in the promised land.

Theme notes and profiles

Caleb Joshua Moses