Numbers 13:14

The Spies Explore Canaan · Numbers 13:1–24
Read Numbers 13

Translations

Modern
…from the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi;
Traditional
Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.
Literal
From the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi.
Latin
De tribu Nephthali, Nahabi filium Vapsi.

Original

Hebrew
English
…from the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi son of Vophsi;

Notes

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).

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

Parallels

Deuteronomy 1:19–25

People

Nahbi: The spy from the tribe of Naphtali Naphtali: Son of Jacob, founder of the tribe of Naphtali Vophsi: Father of Nahbi, the Naphtalite spy

Glossary

Benjamin, Tribe of Deuteronomy, Book of Genealogy Hoshea Joshua (Person) Moses Nahbi Numbers, Book of Oshea Paran Remnant Tribe of Naphtali Vophsi Wilderness of Zin

Topics

Desert, Journey of Israel Through The: Persons Selected As Spies Holy Land: Twelve Men Sent to Spy Nahbi: A Prince of Naphtali, and One or the Twelve Spies the Tribe of Naphtali: Persons Selected From: To Spy out the Land Vophsi: Father of Nahbi