Topical Encyclopedia The presence of soldiers on the Plains of Moab is a significant aspect of Israel's journey to the Promised Land, as recorded in the Old Testament. This period marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites, as they prepare to enter Canaan after their long sojourn in the wilderness.Historical Context The Plains of Moab are located east of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. This area served as the final encampment for the Israelites before they crossed into the land promised to them by God. The narrative of the Israelites on the Plains of Moab is primarily found in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy. Military Organization The Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, were organized into a formidable military force. The census recorded in Numbers 26:2-4 provides insight into the military readiness of the Israelites: "Take a census of the whole congregation of Israel, those twenty years of age and older, by the houses of their fathers—all who can serve in the army of Israel." This census was crucial for organizing the tribes into a structured army, ready for the conquest of Canaan. Divine Instructions and Warfare The soldiers on the Plains of Moab were not merely a human army but were seen as instruments of divine will. God provided specific instructions regarding warfare and the conduct of the soldiers. In Numbers 31:1-2, the Lord commands Moses, "Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people." This directive underscores the belief that the battles fought by the Israelites were not just territorial but also spiritual, fulfilling God's promises and judgments. Moral and Spiritual Preparation Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites underwent a period of moral and spiritual preparation. Deuteronomy 31:6 exhorts the soldiers, "Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." This assurance was vital for the soldiers, emphasizing reliance on God's presence and power rather than solely on military might. Leadership Transition A significant event on the Plains of Moab was the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. In Deuteronomy 34:9, it is noted, "Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the LORD had commanded Moses." This transition was crucial for maintaining the continuity of leadership and ensuring that the soldiers remained united and focused on their divine mission. Covenant Renewal The soldiers, along with the rest of the Israelites, participated in a covenant renewal ceremony on the Plains of Moab. Deuteronomy 29:1 states, "These are the words of the covenant that the LORD commanded Moses to make with the Israelites in the land of Moab, in addition to the covenant He had made with them at Horeb." This renewal was a reaffirmation of their commitment to God and His laws, serving as a spiritual fortification before the impending battles. Conclusion The soldiers on the Plains of Moab were more than just a military force; they were a community bound by faith, divine purpose, and covenantal promises. Their preparation, both militarily and spiritually, set the stage for the conquest of Canaan and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:1And it came to pass after the plague, that the LORD spoke to Moses and to Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest, saying, Nave's Topical Index Library The Census of Israel Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The King --Continued. A Clearing-Up Storm in the Realm The Preacher as a Patriot. The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is the Swoon Theory? Did Jesus survive the crucifixion? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was a Roman legion? | GotQuestions.org Was Longinus the name of the Roman soldier who pierced Jesus with the spear? | GotQuestions.org Soldiers: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Soldiers of the Divine Protection Soldiers: Cowards Excused from Duty As Soldiers: Guard the Gravesite of Jesus Soldiers: Jesus Called Captain of Our Salvation Soldiers: Levies of, in the Ratio of One Man to Ten Subject to Duty Soldiers: Military Enrollment of Israel in the Wilderness of Sinai Soldiers: Officers Concerned in the Betrayal of Jesus Soldiers: On the Plains of Moab Soldiers: Others Exempt from Service Soldiers: Their Duty As Sentinels Related Terms |
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