What is the definition of Numbers 20:17? 🙋 🔍
Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink [of] the water of the wells: we will go by the king’s [high] way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders.
Explanation:
Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 20:17. It’s a pretty important instruction given to the Israelites as they are about to enter a new land – Canaan – after their escape from Egypt.
Here’s what it means in simpler terms:
Basically, it’s saying:
“We need to travel carefully and cautiously through this land.”
Let's unpack it piece by piece:
đź’Ž
“Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country…”
: This is a polite way of saying "We are going to enter your territory."
đź’Ž
“…we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards…”
: They’re choosing a 💎different💎 route than the ones they used before. They're deliberately avoiding the fertile farmland and grape vines – areas that might be difficult to navigate and filled with potential dangers.
đź’Ž
“…neither will we drink [of] the water of the wells:”
: This is the key part. The verse warns against drinking from any wells or springs in this area. It's a symbolic representation of something unpleasant, perhaps a source of illness or danger.
đź’Ž
“we will go by the king’s high way…”
: This refers to a đź’Žroyal roadđź’Ž, meaning a well-maintained and safe route. It signifies travel with respect and proper etiquette.
đź’Ž
“…we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left…”
: This is crucial. They are deliberately choosing a specific path – a straight line, avoiding any shortcuts or sides. It's about staying on the established, safe route.
đź’Ž
"...until we have passed thy borders.”
: They need to continue this journey until they reach the boundaries of the land.
In essence, it’s a command to be cautious and respectful when entering a new territory, emphasizing the importance of following a defined path and avoiding potential hazards.
What's the significance?
This passage is often interpreted as a sign of God’s protection and blessing upon the Israelites. It underscores their responsibility to treat the land with respect and to follow His instructions carefully. It also represents a shift in strategy – moving away from the familiar and establishing a safe path for their future journey.
---
Do you want me to:
đź’Ž Explain another part of this verse?
đź’Ž Give some historical context about why this was a significant instruction at that time?