Numbers 13:1-20 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,… I. THEIR SELECTION. 1. One from each tribe. That each tribe, without preference or distinction, might be represented. 2. Each was a man of mark. "Every one a ruler." "Heads of the children of Israel." Men of judgment and discretion. This the more needful — (1) Because the journey was perilous. (2) Because the object was important. Men able to judge of the soil, and inhabitants. 3. They were chosen and sent by Moses. Their various characters prove the impartiality of Moses. He could doubtless have found in each tribe a man after his own heart. Probably he allowed the people of each tribe to have a voice in the matter. II. THEIR COMMISSION. 1. They were to spy out the whole land. Not to give a report upon some few favourable or unfavourable aspects of it. 2. They were to observe the people, and note especially their numbers, character, habits, and strength. 3. They were to bring particulars of the dwellings of the people ; whether cities, tents, or otherwise. From this, their habits and power of resistance might be inferred. 4. They were carefully to examine the soil, whether fit for pasturage or tillage, whether it was fat or lean. 5. To confirm and illustrate what they might say of the soil, they were to bring of the fruit of the land. 6. They were to be fearless. God would have them in His keeping. III. THEIR JOURNEY. 1. In the glorious summer-time, thus commissioned, they set out on their enterprise. Time when the country looked most beautiful. 2. They passed up through the whole country, from the south to the extreme north; even to Hamath. 3. Returning, they visited Hebron. Should not the remembrance of him who dwelt there (Abraham) have encouraged them to believe in their conquest of the country? 4. At a place afterwards called Eshcol (the place of grapes, or the cluster), they cut down a large bunch of grapes; and collecting also some figs and pomegranates, they returned with much information after forty days. IV. THEIR REPORT. 1. Things in which they agreed. Concerning the country, soil, fruit, people. They showed the fruit they had brought. 2. Things about which they differed. Their ability to conquer this wonderful country. 3. Effect of their representations. (1) Immediate. People discouraged and tumultuous (ver. 30; 14:1-5). They began to rebel. Were for returning to Egypt. (2) Ultimate. Delayed the stay in the desert, and the conquest of Canaan for many years. 4. Only Joshua and Caleb faithful; these were silenced and out-voted. Minorities have often been in the right. Reason: goodness and wisdom generally with the few. (J. C. Gray.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, |
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