Numbers 20:20

"The children of Israel said to him, “We will go up by the highway; and if we drink your water, I and my livestock, then I will give its price. Only let me, without doing anything else, pass through on my feet.”"

Key Reflection

This passage highlights the Israelites' attempt to honor Moses by offering payment for the water, symbolizing their willingness to fulfill their obligations even in matters of divine provision. However, it also underscores their misunderstanding of God’s nature and his provision, as they seek to pay for what is already freely given, failing to recognize that true service and passage should be without conditions or repayment.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The Israelites, without awaiting at Kadesh the return of their ambassador, commenced their eastward march. At the tidings of their approach the Edomites mustered their forces to oppose them; and on crossing the Arabah they found their ascent through the mountains barred. The notice of this is inserted here to complete the narrative; but in order of time it comes after the march described inNumbers 20:22.

More from Numbers 20

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