Numbers Introduction

BIBLE STUDY TEXTBOOK SERIES
NUMBERS

By
Brant Lee Doty

College Press, Joplin Missouri

PREFACE

None of the sagas of men nor the chronicles of nations can compare with the true story of the people of Israel as recorded in the Word of God. Everything one might seek in such an account is readily found here: all the intrigues of men's schemes, all the sins of men's corruptness, all the glories of men's triumphs, all the sorrows of common life, all the ordeals of suppression and slaverythis and much, much more is faithfully recorded in a compact set of books we call the Holy Bible.

There is one supreme factor present in this Record, however, which no other history can claim. The account is not the product of mere human memory and compilation, nor is it based upon the fantasies and legends of a forgotten past. The very hand of God may be seen on every page, in every line. No one has recorded the manner by which the human authors were utilized in the compilation of the record quite as well as one who had known the experience himself, and Peter describes the process: ... men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God, (2 Peter 1:21, NASB).

It is one thing to read history; it is quite another to read history from the viewpoint of the Creator. He has taken great care to preserve His words and His will in Scripture in order that we may find the answers to life's greatest questions: What is man? From whence came man? What is man's purpose on earth? What is man's ultimate destiny? These and many more pertinent questions are fully answered only in the Word of God. We are introduced to the background materials in that portion of The Book known as the Old Testament; we are given the full answer in God's definitive revelation through His Son, Jesus Christ (see Hebrews 1:1-4). With Jesus Christ as the focal point of all history and the climax of all revelation, all which has been written by revelation of God inevitably directs our most careful attention unto the Nazarene. Whether reading in Genesis or Revelation, anyone who studies the Bible is pointed unto Him. Indeed, John named this fact as the primary reason for his writing, (John 20:31).

In a real sense, then, the same purpose undergirds every book in the Book: that all men may be directed to the Son of God, from Whom they receive life in abundance here and life unending hereafter.
Where does the book of Numbers fit into God's majestic scheme? As an indispensable link in the history of those people He had selected as His ownthose through which the Son should come. Numbers finds Israel encamped at Sinai, having but recently left their enslavement in Egypt, and brings them to the verge of Jordan where, following the death of Moses, they crossed into the Land of Promise. Within the book is a vast stock of treasures, gathered from Historical events and circumstances, from rich symbolisms, from the revelation of divine Law and its enforcement, from an intense study of a people living under stress as well as under promise, from magnificent and detailed prophecies exactly fulfilled. Towering high over all others in the book is God's man, Moses; but we are given beautiful insights into the heroic characters of Joshua and Caleb; we see Miriam and Aaron under the damning power of jealousy; we learn of rebellious priests delivered to death for their effrontery of God, and of the frequent sufferings of a grouching people whose own whinings ban them from Canaan. Collectively, the picture is that of ordinary people under circumstances both ordinary and rare, with their conduct fully open to a complete scrutiny. The wise reader will find in the account quite enough to inspire, inform and admonish him in discovering and following the instructions of God or to suffer the consequences of his wrong choice.

Read the book for exactly what it is: the record of a just and merciful God and His relationship with a people who were so much like ourselves that such an identification is not only possible, it is essential.

Brant Lee Doty

DEDICATION

To my dear wife, our five wonderful children, and a growing list of offspring, for all of whom I have but the warmest affections.

NUMBERS
INTRODUCTION

The book we now call Numbers was known from antiquity as Bemidhbar, in the wilderness, (from Numbers 1:5), by the Hebrews, who also frequently referred to it as the fourth book of Moses, The early name derives from the locale in which the events unfold, the desert area of Sinai. Alone of the books of the Pentateuch, it has a name currently which is of Latin rather than Greek origin. The Septuagint used the term Arithmoi, Tertullian referred to it as Arithmi, and Jerome introduced the name with which we are now familiar, Numerii, in the Vulgate. This name relects the two censuses of Israel (Chapter s Numbers 1:1 to Numbers 4:26). Separated as they were by nearly forty years of time, the first census was ordered during the encampment at Sinai; the second briefly preceded Moses-' death in the land of Moab.

Being essentially an historic record, Numbers bridges that gap between the giving of the Law to Moses and the death of the great prophet. Some time is devoted to the final preparations before leaving Sinai; the closing actions described occurred during the fortieth year following the Exodus. Hence, the total time involved in the book is slightly in excess of thirty-eight years. Specifically, the period of preparation at Sinai was 19 days; traveling from Sinai to Kadesh required 10 days; the wanderings filled somewhat more than 37 years; the final departure from Kadesh to the arrival in northern Moab was a ten-month journey, from which point we are prepared for Moses-' farwell messages of Deuteronomy, and the beginning of Joshua's leadership. Throughout, the book interweaves Law and history, showing how the one gives meaningful direction to the other.

Numbers is a necessary and vital link to the developing history of a young nation, as well as the initial record of their life under the theocratic design of God. The Pulpit Commentary (Numbers, Introduction, xvi), correctly shows that the book is so inseparably united to the books which precede it that no scholar would make it the subject of a separate work. In isolation, its value is minimal; without its contributions, Israelite history would suffer a severe void.

AUTHORSHIP

John Marsh, in his introduction to Numbers in The Interpreter's Bible, simply says, Although Numbers is one of the five books of Moses, it cannot be held to have been written by him, (p. 137). Summarized, his arguments are that Moses is always referred to in the third person; that he would not have spoken of himself as the meekest man in all the world (Numbers 12:3); that Numbers 33:2 implies the hand of another writer or of an editor; and that critical or literary analysis discloses the presence of the same sources as are found in the rest of the Pentateuch: J, E, D, P and (possibly) H.

Typical of those who defend the essential Mosaic authorship is Whitelaw, The Pulpit Commentary, whose essay on the authenticity and authorship wrestles with some of the obvious difficulties one encounters in treating the chronological, statistical and physical factors. While acknowledging they are sources of some problems, he nevertheless concludes that if no valid argument can be adduced for impugning the veracity of its contents, the inference is irresistible that it can only have proceeded from the pen of Moses, p. xvi. The conclusion is not merely affirmed; it is the result of reasoned confrontation with the commonly posed objections of Marsh and others.

The conclusion is based upon four converging evidences: 1. Numerous sections of the book must have been from the hand of Moses, or at least from his age, because of (a.) the camping stations (now largely unidentifiable); (b.) the songs in chapter 21 are certainly from the age, if not the actual pen of Moses; (c.) the legislation of chapter 19, plainly intended for people dwelling in camps and tents; (d.) instructions relating to the silver trumpets (Numbers 10:1-10), and the arrangement of the camps shows a clear relationship to the desert; (e). the priestly benediction and the military order of march are of the age and spirit of Moses. 2. The book shows much evidence of having been composed in the desert by an eyewitness and participant in the events recorded. 3. The book shows an intimate and accurate familiarity with Egyptian customs and manners. 4. There is testimony from incidental and undersigned items which would point to Mosaic composition. His final words are that the book, when fairly and dispassionately interrogated, not only does not support the modern hypothesis of its being a late compilation from pre-existing documents. but abundantly warrants the still popular belief that, while there is every probability that, like the rest of the Pentateuchal writings, it has been subjected to one or more revisions, and may even have suffered interpolation in unimportant passages. yet in the main, and substantially as we still possess it, it proceeded as an original composition from the hand of Moses, (pp. i-xxii).

To these arguments may be added those of William Jones, that the intermixture in this book of narrative and legislative matter is one of its characteristic features. This feature is exactly one which belongs to the work of a contemporary annalist. He adds, The various communications purporting to be from God to Moses are so worded and often of such a nature (cf. e. g. xiv. 11-26), that unless we go the length of denying their historical character altogether, we must admit them to have been recorded by the very person who received them, (see The Preacher's Homiletic Commentary, Philippians 1:2). The consummate argument follows, then, in the statement that No other person than Moses has been or can be named with anything like probability, or even plausibility, as the author, (Ibid).

CHRONOLOGY OF THE BOOK

We are given some points of reference by which to establish at least a general chronology of the book of Numbers. All but one of these occur within the second year after the departure from Egypt. Immediately upon the opening of his account, Moses specifies that the divine instructions for taking the census were given on the first day of the second month in the second year after they came out of the land of Egypt, (Numbers 1:1). In the same month, two additional events are identified by the calendar; the supplemental passover was observed on the fourteenth day (Numbers 9:11), and the troupe departed for Canaan (Numbers 10:11). These occurrences are identified with the month of Zif. Previously, in the same year, in the month Abib, the second Passover had been observed (Numbers 10:5), and the dedication of the Tabernacle occurred (Numbers 10:15). These two events, however, are not properly included in the time sequence of Numbers; they are more appropriate to Exodus where they had already been noted; their citation here is but a point of reference.

The final time-reference in the book (Numbers 33:38), sets the date of the death of Aaron: the first day of Ab in the fortieth year. The period of Israel's habitation in the wilderness had been announced in Numbers 14:33. It is obvious as the book closes that the exile is terminated, with the tribes prepared to cross the Jordan into the Land of Promise.

Collating all details, then, we arrive at the following analysis: the opening Chapter s (Numbers 1:1, Numbers 10:10), cover a time of one month and twenty days. The second section (Numbers 10:11, Numbers 14:45), filled a period of two to four months. The third, (Numbers 15; Numbers 16; Numbers 17; Numbers 18; Numbers 19; Numbers 20:1-28), fills approximately thirty-eight years; the final, (Numbers 21:1, Numbers 36:13), nearly two years. This last period poses some problems in fitting the numerous events into a brief time schedule; but the problems are not insoluble.

There is little doubt that the order of events as they actually occurred and as they are related in Numbers cannot be paralleled at all times. If the problems were unique to this book it might be cause for great concern. Whether we understand the purpose for this disorder or not is not vital to our understanding the author's work. Disparate elements appear with astonishing frequency in the Scripturesa logical offense to our chronologically oriented minds, but a common practice among ancient writers who, we say, lack historical objectivity.
In making such a judgment here, we are guilty of an error in reason: we apply a twentieth-century western philosophy of history to a record which is thirty-four hundred years old, and of oriental origin. If our modern sense of orderliness must be satisfied, it is no great difficulty to establish the actual sequence of events in Numbers, as well as many other books of the Bible, All we need to know of Israel, from Egypt to Canaan, is to be found in Scripture. If the sequence is not always clear in every detail, it in no way nullifies the impact of the lessons to be learned from this vital link.

PURPOSE OF THE BOOK

The first and most obvious objective of the book of Numbers is to give an accurate tribe-by-tribe count of those who had left Egypt, and, later, comparative figures as Israel prepared to enter the land of Canaan. The Levites were tallied separately, since they were not involved in military service. In contrast to the great population multiplication which had occurred during their slavery years in Egypt, the Israelites scarcely maintained their total during the hardships of life in the wilderness; their number actually decreased slightly, from 603, 550 (Numbers 1:46) to 601, 730 (Numbers 26:51), of those counted.

When we also consider the calamities visited upon the people by war, rebellion, the poisonous serpents, and the plague, as well as the fact that death visited every member of the nation beyond the age of twenty, with the exceptions of Joshua and Caleb, we are astounded that the numbered reduction was so small.

Numbers is the first record of the life of this new nation under their newly-instituted theocracy. Egypt and its grueling enslavement is past. Jehovah has consistently and marvelously demonstrated His power to deliver, save, lead and provide for His people. From Sinai forward they will learn directly the rewards of faithful obedience or the hazards and punishments of disobedience; and the lessons will touch every member of their society, including Moses himself. At the introduction of the Law, the Lord had clearly spelled out the certain results of their cooperative lives (Exodus 23:22-33), while the dire consequences of failure are paired with the blessings of faithfulness in the great declamation of Moses in Moab, Deuteronomy 28:1-26, Time and again in our book, both extremes are seen when Israel alternated between these attitudes.

Of equal or even greater importance is the fact that Numbers forms an indispensable link in the historical account of a nascent nation. The events between Sinai and preparations for crossing the Jordan would be all but totally unknown without it. As in the other segments of the history, Numbers is without unnecessary detail, presenting essential facts briefly and without undue stress. We cannot but marvel at the succinctness of the accountthat the inspired author discriminates consistently between the important and the irrelevant and relates the former with admirably brief accuracy and thoroughness, while avoiding the pitfalls of the latter.
We may fairly say, then, that the controlling purpose of the book is to record, for our profit and example, the succession of historical events showing the certainty of God's promises and threats to His children: His careful instruction and swift, prudent discipline; His daily providential care for their necessities; His jealous concern for their sole affection and undivided worship; His equity of judgment upon all.
There are also to be found certain enlargements upon the Law, as in the assignments to the three priestly families in moving the Tabernacle, or the order of encampment and marching, and miscellaneous provisions for the general welfare. Life in the wilderness could not have been comfortable, under the most ideal circumstances. Living was in tightly knit quarters, on a highly restricted diet, and under a new code of conduct made for hard days. Not all of the people possessed any great portion of the faith and devotion of Moses, and their persistent murmurings reflected their widespread discontent. Constant adjustments and interpretations of the Law were required to maintain the best possible order in their social behavior.

Yet we cannot help making a comparison of these circumstances with those they had left behind. Aside from certain dietary deprivationsthe leeks, onions, garlic, melons and fish they had enjoyed formerly (Numbers 11:5), there were few other features of the previous life they might have missed seriously. Certainly they must have been relieved at the end of the conditions of their total enslavement and the consequent freedom now afforded them. Nor would they soon have forgotten the bitterness of their tasks, and the cruelty of their taskmasters, as well as the slaughter of their infant sons. But it is human nature to forget the severity of previous trials when we are relieved of them, and lose their perspective in new problems which may often be of little comparative consequence; so it was with Israel in the desert. Neither can we forget that there were among the Israelites those who composed a mixed multitude, by which we understand, a number of households formed by the intermarriage of Jew with Egyptian, (Exodus 12:38, see Numbers 11:4). The NAS surely captures the primary characteristic of such a group in calling it a rabble. It may well be that these malcontents were the common source of complaints and grumblings; they were almost certainly the instigators of the greedy response to God's provision of the quail (Numbers 11:32-34); they may well have spearheaded the request earlier for Aaron to make them a god at Sinai while Moses delayed his return (Exodus 32:1 to Exodus 35:1 ff.), with the consequent orgy and its punishment. Such actions would hardly be surprising, since they were from a background in which polytheistic immorality was not only permitted, it was encouraged.

So Numbers is also God's search for a pure, reliable people. Israel is put through a crucible of testing, and the dross is constantly being skimmed away, leaving what should be a more acceptable residue through whom Jehovah may work His marvelous plan.

ABBREVIATIONS FOR REFERENCES USED IN THE TEXT

Book

Abbreviation

American Standard Version

The Interpreter's Bible

The International Critical Commentary

ICC

Introduction to the Literature of the Old Testament

ILOT

Keil & Delitzsch, Commentaries on the Old Testament

King James Version

KJV

New American Standard Bible

NASB

Zondervan's Pictorial Bible Dictionary

PBD

The Preacher's Homiletic Commentary

PHC

The Pulpit Commentary

Rashi Commentaries on the Pentateuch

RCP

GLOSSARY to the Book of NUMBERS

Aaronluminous (?). First son of Amram and Jochebed, brother of Moses and Miriam. Selected by God to be spokesman for Moses, Aaron worked closely with his brother throughout the time of the exodus and subsequent history. He was made the first high priest by the Lord, although his character was weak and he fell into the sin of jealousy toward his brother. Death came to him at age 123 years on the top of Mt. Hor, at which time his robes were stripped from him and put upon his son and successor, Eleazar. The people mourned for him for thirty days.

Abarima region on the other side. Site of one of the final encampments of the Israelites east of the Jordan. From one of the peaks of the mountains in this area, the Israelites viewed the Promised Land, as did Moses.

Abel-shittimmeadow of the acacia trees. A plain in the land of Moab. Here the Israelites spent their last few days before crossing into Canaan.

Abidanfather is judge. A prince selected from the tribe of Benjamin as their representative at the census in the wilderness. He also offered a sacrifice as one of the leaders of Israel when the tabernacle was dedicated.

Abihailfather is strength. The head of the house of Merari; father of Zuriel.

Abihuthe father is he. The second son of Aaron who, with his father, brother, and seventy elders, ascended Sinai part-way with Moses. Later killed along with his brother Nadab when they offered strange fire to Jehovah.

Abiramfather of exaltation. One of the conspirators against Moses, along with Dathan and Korah, his brothers. He was struck dead by the Lord, who opened the earth to swallow them.

Agagviolent, war-like, (?). A royal title given to the Amalekite princes. Its use is similar to that of -Pharaoh-' or -Caesar-', in that it is applied to the current ruler at the time of writing.

Ahiezerhelping brother, (?), Head of the tribe of Dan in the wilderness.

Ahihudbrother of Majesty, Head of the tribe of Asher who assisted Moses in the division of the land of Canaan.

Ahimanmy brother is a gift. One of the three giant sons of Anak whom the Israelite spies saw at Mount Hermon.

Ahiramexalted brother. A son of Benjamin. Not listed in Genesis, he is the third of five sons in Numbers.(Numbers 26:38-39).

Ainfountain. A spring, or flowing water, located west of Riblah on the eastern border of the Promised Land. Perhaps to be identified with the source of the Orontes river.

Akrabbimscorpions, or curves. The ascent of the scorpions, a pass rising between the southwestern corner of the Dead Sea and the Wilderness of Zin; the boundary between Judah and Edom.

Almon-diblathaimAlmon of the two cakes of figs. One of the final camps of Israelthe eighth after Ezion-gebersituated between Dibon-gad and the mountains of Abarim.

Alushwild place, or lion's lair, (?). One of the campsites of Israel between Dophkah and Rephidim.

Amalekiteslaborious, war-like (?). Descendants of Esau, the Amalekites were nomadic marauders living principally in the Negeb. They, together with the Canaanites, defeated Israel at Hormah.

AmmielGod is my kinsman. Son of Gemalli, and Dan's spy among those sent into Canaan by Moses.

Ammihudmy kinsman is glorious. 1. An Ephraimite and father of Elishama. 2. A Simeonite and father of Shemuel. 3. A Naphtalite whose son, Pedahel, assisted in dividing the Promised Land.

Amminadabmy kinsman is generous. 1. Aaron's father-in-law; a Levite. 2. A prince of Judah.

Ammishaddaimy kinsman is the Almighty. A Danite, whose son was captain of the tribe of Dan.

Ammonitesson of my relative. Descendants of Ben-Ammi, the son of Lot by his second daughter. Related to the Moabites, with whom they often joined against a common foe.

Amoriteshighlanders. Descendants of Canaan, these people, under king Sihon, took a large area from Moab and held it during the time of the Israelites-' wanderings.

Amramexalted people. A Levite and father of Moses, Aaron and Miriam.

Anaklong necked; giant. Descended from Arba, and the father of the Anakim. Three of their chiefs occupied Hebron at the time of the spies-' visit.

Arcity. A city or district in Moab; at one time the capital. Located on the Arnon River.

Aradwild ass; fugitive (?). A city in the Negeb, about seventeen miles south of Hebron.

Arddescender, or ruler. Son of Bela, descendant of Benjamin.

Arelivaliant. A son of Gad and founder of the Arelites.

Arnonroaring stream. River rising in Arabia which flows into the Dead Sea through a high gorge from the east. During the time of the wilderness wandering, it formed the boundary between the Moabites and the Amorites.

Aroddescendant. A son of Gad and head of the Arodites during Moses-' day. (Numbers 26:17).

Aroerpoor, naked, helpless. 1. A town on a branch of the brook Jabbok, captured from Sihon. 2. A town on the north bank of the Arnon, held by the Reubenites.

Ashbelman of Baal. Second son of Benjamin, and father of the Ashbelites.

Asherhappy. The second son of Zilpah, by Jacob; and the tribe descended from him.

AsrielGod binds together, Son of Gilead, and grandson of Manasseh.

Asshurlevel plain. Apparently Assyria in Balaam's prophecy. Asshur was a descendant of Ham, and builder of Nineveh. (Numbers 24:22; Numbers 24:24).

Atarothcrowns. A city fortified by Gad, although in the original territory of Manasseh. (Numbers 32:35).

Atroth-shophancrowns of nakedness. Either the full name of the city Atroth, or, if the names are intended to be separate in Numbers 32:35, it is the listing of separate cities taken by Gad.

Azmonstrong. A city on the southern border of Judah. (Numbers 34:4-5).

Azzanstrong. The father of Paltiel, prince of the tribe of Issachar. (Numbers 34:26).

Baal-MeonBaal of Meon. An old city near the border of Moab, assigned to Reuben. (Numbers 32:38). (Also called Beon in Numbers 32:3).

Baal-peorBaal of Peor. A Moabite god, probably Chemosh, worshipped on the top of Mount Peor. It was this god which the Israelites were enticed to worship by the Moabite women in Numbers 25:1-9.

Baal-Zephonlord of the north. An encampment of the Israelites before crossing the Red Sea. (Numbers 33:7). Exact location is unknown.

Balaamdevouring, or devourer. Son of Peor, and a prophet used, when willing, to declare the counsel of Jehovah to Balak, king of Moab. Ultimately he yielded to selfish ambition, attempting both to speak for the Lord and to please Balak with his words. Although he uttered one of the great prophecies of the Messiah as the Star of Jacob and the scepter of Israel smiting her enemies, including Moab, he remained affiliated with the Moabites and eventually died in battle against Israel.

Balakdevastator. King of Moab who hired Balaam to curse the Israelties. When Balaam's words were anything but reassuring, the Israelties were brought to cohabit with the Moabite women in lustful idolatry. Consequently, a great judgment came upon the people of God.

Bamoth-Baalthe high places of Baal. A place north of the Arnon River to which Balak took Balaam. Later a part of Reuben's territory. (Numbers 21:19; Numbers 22:41).

Bashansmooth, fertile land. A plateau area east of the Sea of Galilee, north of Gilead, and extending to Mount Hermon, extremely fertile and rich. It was taken by the Israelites before crossing the Jordan, and was assigned to the half-tribe of Manasseh.(Numbers 21:33-35).

Bashan Havoth Jairencampments of Jair in Bashan. Several unwalled towns, perhaps as many as 60, taken by Jair of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 32:41).

Becherfirst born, or young camel. Son of Benjamin whose descendants are not registered among the families of Israel, perhaps because they were too few to form a tribe. (Numbers 26:38).

Beera well. One of the encampments of the Israelites in the wilderness. (Numbers 21:16).

Beladestruction. Oldest son of Benjamin, and head of the Belaites. (Numbers 26:38).

Bene Jaakansons of intelligence. An encampment of Israel in the wilderness, shortly before Aaron's death. (Numbers 33:31-32).

Benjaminson of my right hand. Youngest son of Jacob; one of the tribes of Israel, immediately north of Judea.

Beonlord of On, or house of On. Also: Baal-Meon. A town built by Reuben. (Numbers 32:3).

Beorshepherd. The father of Balaam. (Numbers 22:5, et passim).

Beriahgift (?), unfortunate (?). A son of Asher and father of the Beriites. (Numbers 26:44).

Beth-Haranhouse of the high place. A fortified city built by Gad in Gilead. (Numbers 32:36).

Beth Jeshimothhouse of desolations. A city of Moab near the place where the Jordan enters the Dead Sea. (Numbers 33:49).

Beth Nimrahhouse of the leopard. A fenced city in Gad. (Numbers 32:3; Numbers 32:36).

Bukkimouth of Jah. A prince of Dan who helped divide the land under Joshua. (Numbers 34:22).

Calebdog, impetuous. Son of Jephunneh of the tribe of Judah, appointed as one of the twelve spies sent into Canaan; and, with Joshua, one of the two who urged immediate occupation of the Promised Land. For his faithfulness, he was permitted to enter into Canaan, and received Hebron, with its surrounding hills.

Canaanlow, flat. Early name of Palestine, the land taken by the Israelites. The name is derived from the son of Ham and grandson of Noah who settled here.

Canaaniteslowlanders. Generally, any of the pagan inhabitants in Palestine prior to, and together with the tribes of Israel. Specifically, the Tribe of the Canaanites occupied the Jordan Valley, portions of the valley of Jezreel and of the plain of Sharon.

Carmifruitful. One of the sons of Reuben, and father of the Carmites. (Numbers 26:6).

Chemoshfire, hearth. The primary god of Moab. (Numbers 21:29).

Chinnerethharp, circuit. Early name for the Sea of Galilee. (Numbers 34:11).

Chislonstrong. Father of Elidad, Benjamite prince who assisted in division of the land of Promise. (Numbers 34:21).

Chittimterrible, giants. Descendants of Javan; this name was given to the Island of Cyprus and the islands and coasts of the Mediterranean. (Numbers 24:24).

Cozbideceitful. A Midianite woman through whom the fiery plague came upon Israel in the wilderness. She was killed by Aaron's grandson, Phinehas. (Numbers 25:16-18).

Danjudge. Fifth son of Jacob, and one of the twelve tribes. One of the largest of the tribes, (62,700), they were assigned rear guard duty during the Exodus.

Dathanfountain. Great-grandson of Reuben, he and his brothers, Abiram and Korah, led a rebellion against Moses, and both they and their families were swallowed up by the earth. (Numbers 16:2-15; Numbers 16:31-35).

DeuelGod knows. Father of Eliasaph, one of the princes, of the tribe of Gad.

Dibonmeaning unknown. Station of one of the encampments of Israel; in the high plain of Moab east of the Dead Sea. At first held by Sihon of the Amorites, it was taken by Israel, and became a city of Gad.

Dophkahcattle driving (?). Encampment of the Israelites between the Red Sea and Sinai. (Numbers 33:12).

Ebera shoot. Perhaps a patronymic designation of the descendants of Eber; or, perhaps referring to those beyond the river.

Ebronahbeach, bank, coast. Encampment of Israel just before arrival at Ezion-geber on the Gulf of Akaba. (Numbers 33:34).

Edomred. Also called Seir, this territory consisted of a 100-mile long valley directly south of the Dead Sea reaching to the Gulf of Akaba. The king of this land refused permission to Israel to pass through his territory, necessitating a much longer march toward Canaan. (Numbers 20:14-21).

Edreistrong. An important city of Og, king of Bashan, taken by the Israelites. The city and the territory came to the half-tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 21:33).

Egyptform and meaning uncertain. Land settled by the second son of Ham, who gave his name to the country. Here the Israelites were enslaved for 400 years; from this land they were led of God to Sinai, thence to the Land of Promise ultimately. From the land, the Israelites brought elements of a polytheistic religion, soon seen in the erection of the golden calf at Sinai. The Hebrews both hated and respected this land. They often formed unprofitable alliances with the Egyptians; they often feared the military prowess of this people. At the same time, they could not forget that Egypt had provided their forefathers with food when they otherwise might have succumbed to the severe famine in the time of Joseph. The Israelites remembered with favor the delicacies they had enjoyed in Egypt (see Numbers 11:5-6); but they would be chronically infected with religious adulteries from the same source.

Egypt, River ofthe wadi of Mitsrayim. Probably the Wady el-Arish, which formed the border between Canaan and Egypt; certainly not the Nile. It was the southern boundary of Judah. (Numbers 34:5).

EldadGod has loved. This man, along with Medad, remained in the camp when Moses and 70 elders were summoned to the Tabernacle to receive the gift of prophecy; they received the gift at their tents, and prophesied there. Despite Joshua's objection, Moses commended the two. (Numbers 11:24-29).

ElealehGod ascends. A town associated with Heshbon. Located approximately one mile north of this city, it belonged to Reuben after the military exploits of Israel east of the Jordan. (Numbers 32:3; Numbers 32:37).

EleazarGod has helped. Third son of Aaron, he was designated chief priest and was given several special tasks before the Lord, (Numbers 3:32; Numbers 19:3-4; Numbers 16:36-39). At Aaron's death, he was appointed chief priest, and he assisted in taking the second census, as well as in dividing the booty from conquest of the Midianites. He also assigned the 2½tribes to the land east of the Jordan and helped Joshua divide the Promised Land among the tribes. (Numbers 34:17).

Elimterebinths. Second place of encampment after crossing the Red Sea. A fine oasis with a dozen springs and 70 palm trees was found here. (Numbers 33:9-10).

ElishamaGod has heard. Grandfather of Joshua; prince of Ephraim when the wilderness wanderings began. (Numbers 1:10, Numbers 2:18, et passim).

ElizaphanGod has concealed. Son of Uzziel, chief among the Kohathites when the census was taken. (Numbers 3:30).

ElizurGod is a rock. Son of Shedeur and prince of Reuben who helped in the census. (Numbers 1:5, et passim).

Elonoak, strong. Second of Zebulon's three sons. (Numbers 26:26).

Enanfountain. Father of Ahira, of Naphtali, who aided in the census at Sinai. (Numbers 1:15; et passim).

Ephodoracular. The father of Hanniel, prince of Manasseh. (Numbers 34:23).

Ephraimdouble fruit. The younger of Joseph's two sons. He received the right hand of Jacob in blessing, despite Joseph's protest. The Ephraimites marched and camped on the west side of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. Joshua was of this tribe. (Numbers 2:18-24; Numbers 13:8).

Erwatchful. First son of Judah by Shua, the Canaanite. Named in the genealogy of Judah. (Numbers 26:19).

Eranwatcher. Ephraim's grandson, by Shuthelah. (Numbers 26:36).

Erimy watcher. Fifth son of Gad, and father of the Erites. (Numbers 26:16).

Eshcolcluster. Valley near Hebron from which the Israelite spies brought back a large cluster of grapes. (Numbers 13:23-24).

Ethammeaning unknown. A wilderness area through which Israel wandered after leaving Succoth; perhaps on both sides of the north end of the Dead Sea. (Numbers 33:6-8, see Exodus 13:20).

Ethiopiameaning unknown. Land from which Moses-' wife had come (Numbers 12:1-2); named for Cush, son of Ham.

Evidesire. One of the five kings of Midian slain in battle against Israel on the plains of Moab. (Numbers 31:8).

Ezion-geberbackbone of a mighty one. City on the Gulf of Akaba, near Elath. Israel stopped here last on the way to Kadesh. (Numbers 33:35-36).

Gadfortune. Seventh son of Jacob. The tribe of the Gadites shrank more than 5,000 between the two censuses. They chose to occupy land east of the Jordan, and were granted the central portion, between Reuben to the south and the half-tribe of Manasseh to the north.

Gaddibelonging to fortune. Chosen from the tribe of Manasseh as one of the twelve spies. (Numbers 13:11).

GaddielGad brings a fortune. Representative from Zebulun as one of the twelve spies. (Numbers 13:10).

Gamalielreward of God. Chief of the tribe of Manasseh who helped Moses in the census. (Numbers 1:10, et passim).

Gemallicamel owner, or rider. Father of Ammiel, ruler of the tribe of Dan; one of twleve spies sent into Canaan. (Numbers 13:12).

Gershona stranger in that place. First son of Levi. During the wanderings, the family were assigned to care for the Tent itself. (Numbers 3:17-18; Numbers 3:21; Numbers 3:23-25, et passim).

GeuelGod of salvation. A prince of Gad, also sent out with the twelve spies to Canaan. (Numbers 13:15).

Gideonione who cuts down. Prince of Benjamin who assisted in the census at Sinai. (Numbers 7:60).

Gileadstrong, rocky. Region in the Trans-Jordan country from about the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee to the northern end of the Dead Sea. At that time, it was very fertile, and much to be desired. Most of the area was claimed by Gad; the southern portion formed part of Reuben's claim. (Numbers 32:1).

Guniprotected. A family of the tribe of Naphtali. (Numbers 26:48).

Haggifestive. Son of Gad, and ancestor of the Haggites. (Numbers 26:15).

Hamathfortification. City in upper Syria, on the Orontes river. Specified as the northern limit of Israel. (Numbers 34:8).

Hamulpity. Grandson of Judah, and son of Perez. (Numbers 26:21).

HannielGod is gracious. Son of Ephod, prince of Manasseh, appointed to aid in dividing the land. (Numbers 34:23).

Hanochdedicated. First son of Reuben; head of the Hanochites. (Numbers 26:5).

Haradahterror. An encampment of Israel in the wilderness after leaving Mount Shepher. Location is unknown. (Numbers 33:24).

Hashmonahfruitfulness. Camping station in the wilderness; location unknown. (Numbers 33:29-30).

Havoth-jairvillages of Jair. A group of villages taken by Jair, son of Manasseh. The term signifies a village of tents. (Numbers 32:41).

Hazar-addarhouse of honor. Site on the southern border of Judah, west of Kadesh-barnea. (Numbers 34:4).

Hazar-enancourt of the fountains. Spot where the northern and eastern boundaries of the Promised Land intersect, approximately 60 miles east by northeast of Damascus. (Numbers 34:9-10).

Hazerothcourts, or villages. One of the stations on the journey from Mt. Sinaiapproximately lying 45 miles distant from the peak. The people remained here for some time recuperating from the plague at Kibroth-hattaavah; here Miriam and Aaron rebelled against Moses. (Numbers 11:35; Numbers 12).

Hebronleague, confederacy. One of the world's most ancient cities, Hebron lies about 20 miles south and somewhat west of Jerusalem, at an altitude of nearly 3000 feet. The spies brought a huge cluster of grapes from the valley of Eshcol, near this city.(Numbers 13:22-24).

Helekmeaning uncertain. Second son of Gilead, of the tribe of Manasseh, and head of a family. (Numbers 26:30).

Helonvalorous. A leading man of the tribe of Zebulun at the census. (Numbers 1:9).

Hepherpit, well. The father of Zelophehad, whose daughters sought a ruling on the inheritance and their tribal properties; of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 26:32; Numbers 27:1-8, Numbers 36:1-9).

Heshbonreckoning. Capital of the territory of the Amorites; taken by Israel (Numbers 21:21-31), and held as part of Reuben's land.

Hezronblooming. (a) Son of Reuben, and father of the Hezronites. (Numbers 26:6). (b) Descendant of Judah, through Perez. (Numbers 26:21).

Hittitespeople of Heth. Descendants of Ham, through Canaan and Heth. Listed along with the Jebusites, and Amorites as mountain-dwellers in the south of the land of Canaan, they were a powerful but peaceable people whose very existence was in dispute among Bible critics until archeological discoveries in 1871 fully substantiated the record of Scripture. (Numbers 13:29).

Hobabbeloved. Brother of Zipporah, and hence a brother-in-law to Moses. Moses urged him to guide the people through the wilderness. At first declining, Hobab later agreed.(Numbers 10:29).

Hoglahmagpie. One of the five daughters of Zelophehad, involved in the problem of familial inheritance of land. (Numbers 26:33;Numbers 27:1-11; Numbers 36:1-12).

Hormountain. (a) Mountain where Aaron died, and from which the Israelites marched south toward the Red Sea (Numbers 20:22-29; Numbers 31:4; Numbers 33:37-41). (b) Unidentified peak named as a landmark in the border of northern Israel, between the Mediterranean and the entrance of Hamath (Numbers 34:7-8).

Hor-hagidgadhollow, or cavern of Gilgad. One of the camps of Israel in the wilderness. (Numbers 33:32-33).

Horicave-dweller. Father of Shaphat, one of the spies. Of the tribe of Simeon. (Numbers 13:5).

HormahA devoted place. Scene of defeat of the rebellious Israelites, administered by the Amelkites. Situated midway between Gaza and Beer-sheba. (Numbers 14:45; Numbers 21:1-3).

Hosheasalvation. Early name of Joshua; changed my Moses. (Numbers 13:8; Numbers 13:16).

HuphamSon of Benjamin and father of the Huphamites. (Numbers 26:39).

Hurwhiteness. One of five Midianite kings killed in battle against Israel at the time of Balaam's death. (Numbers 31:1-8).

HushimSons of Dan, called Shuham in Numbers 26:42.

IgalGod redeems. One of the twelve spies sent into Canaan. (Numbers 13:7).

Ije-abarimruins of Abarim. An unidentified station of the Israelites in the vicinity of Moab. (Numbers 33:44).

Imnahright hand, or good fortune. Head of a family of Asher. (Numbers 26:44).

Israelprince of God. In Numbers, the name generally refers to the nation descended from Jacobthe twelve tribes under Moses. (Numbers 1:2-3; Numbers 1:45; Numbers 1:54; Numbers 10:12; Numbers 13:21; Numbers 14:2, et passim).

IssacharOne of the tribes of Israel. Between the first and second censuses, the tribe increased by nearly 10,000 warriors. (Numbers 1:28-29, cf. Numbers 26:25).

IthamarYoungest of Aaron's four sons. He was treasurer of the tabernacle offerings and superintendent of the Gershonites and Merarites. (Numbers 4:28; Numbers 4:33).

Izharthe shining one. Son of Kohath. (Numbers 3:19).

JaakanA camp during the wanderings (Numbers 33:31-32). The site of Aaron's burial (Deuteronomy 10:6-7).

Jaazer, Jazerhelpful. Fertile land taken from the Amorites under Moses. (Numbers 21:32; Numbers 32:1-5).

Jabbokflowing. The largest river flowing into the Jordan from the east. It formed the border between the kingdoms of Sihon and Og, about midway between the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee. (Numbers 21:21-25).

Jabesh-Gileaddry. Most important city in the area of the Gileadites; given to the half tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 32:33).

Jachinhe will set up. Fourth son of Simeon and founder of the Jachanites.(Numbers 26:12).

JahazStronghold north of the Arnon river, conquered by Israel, and given as a portion of the inheritance of Reuben. (Numbers 21:21-25).

JahleelSon of Zebulun, and father of the Jahleel clan.(Numbers 26:26).

JahzeelGod divides, or apportions. Son of Naphtali; descendants are named in Numbers 26:48.

Jairhe enlightens. A leading warrior in the conquest of Gilead, Jair was the son of Manasseh. (Numbers 32:40-41).

Jaminright hand. A son of Simeon; later a tribe. (Numbers 26:12).

Jashubhe returns. A son and later a tribe descended from Issachar. (Numbers 26:24).

Jazermeaning unknown. Prominent city in Gilead, built by the Gadites. (Numbers 21:31-32).

Jebusitesmeaning unknown. Of doubtful origin, the Jebusites occupied the area in and around Jerusalem. A mountain tribe, they seem also to have been small in number. (Numbers 13:29).

Jeezermeaning unknown. Head of a family of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 26:30).

Jehoshuathe Lord is deliverance. Usual Hebrew form of Joshua. (Numbers 13:16).

Jemuelmeaning unknown. Son of Simeon, called Nemuel in Numbers 26:12.

Jephunnahit will be prepared. The father of Caleb, of the tribe of Judah. (Numbers 13:6).

Jeshimonwaste, desert. Barren land or desert in the southeastern portion of Judah, between Hebron and the Dead Sea. (Numbers 21:20; Numbers 23:28).

Jesuithe Lord is satisfied. Otherwise, Ishvi. Son of Asher, and head of a tribe. (Numbers 26:44).

Jezerform, purpose. Son of Naphtali and head of a tribe. (Numbers 26:49).

Jimnagood fortune. Son of Asher (Numbers 26:44).

JochebedJehovah is glory. Mother of Moses, Aaron and Miriam, and sister of Kohath. (Numbers 26:59).

Jogbehahlofty.City in Gilead given to Gad. (Numbers 32:35).

Jogliled into exile. Father of Bukki, a chief among the Danites. (Numbers 34:22).

Jordanflowing downward. The great river of Palestine, flowing from the environs of Mount Hermon in Syria to its ultimate receptacle, the Dead Sea. Crossing this river would symbolize Israel's entrance into the Promised Land. (Numbers 13:29, et passim).

Josephhe will add. Eleventh; and favored son of Jacob; his name was not given to one of the twelve tribes, but the inheritance was passed through two of his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. (Numbers 1:10, et passim).

JoshuaJehovah is deliverer. Son of Nun, and the man selected to succeed Moses as leader of the Israelites. (Numbers 11:28, et passim).

Jotbathahmeaning unknown. An unidentified camp of the Israelites in the desert. (Numbers 33:33-34).

Judahpraise. The fourth son of Jacob by Leah. The tribe was given a favored area in the Promised Land. (Numbers 1:7 et passim).

Kadesh, Kadesh-Barneaholy. A region immediately south of the Promised Land in which Israel remained as the twelve spies were sent into that Land. The death of Miriam was the first of several incidents here (Numbers 20:1; Numbers 13:26; Numbers 20:14; et passim).

Kehelathahgathering, assembly. Unidentified camp of Israel during their wanderings. (Numbers 33:22-23).

KemuelGod's mount. A prince of the tribe of Ephraim, consulted in the division of Canaan. (Numbers 34:24).

Kenathpossession. An Amorite city conquered by Nobah, along with surrounding villages of the area. (Numbers 32:42).

Kenezitebelonging to the side or flank. A tribe which descended from Esau, but who may have become quickly absorbed into the tribe of Judah. Caleb was of the Kenezites, through Jephunneh. (Numbers 32:12).

Kenitesmith. A nomadic tribe among the tribes of Canaan; perhaps dispersed among the Amalekites. (Numbers 24:21-22).

Kibroth-hattaavahgraves of lust. Camp of Israel one day after leaving Sinai. Here the people lusted for flesh, and a great quantity of quails came upon them. This was followed by a plague and widespread death. (Numbers 11:34; Numbers 33:16).

Kirjathaimtwo cities. A city in the hills of Moab, formerly held by Sihon and given to Reuben. (Numbers 32:37).

Kohathassembly. The second son of Levi, and ancestor of Moses and Aaron. One of the three divisions of the Levites, they were given special duties over the ark, the table, the candlestick and the vessels of the sanctuary, along with the screen and the service. (Numbers 3:17 ff, et passim).

Korahbaldness. Along with Dathan and Abiram, Korah rebelled against the authority of Moses in the wilderness. Along with them and all their families, he was swallowed up by the earth in punishment. (Numbers 16:11-32; Numbers 26:9; Numbers 27:3).

Laelbelonging to God. A Levite of the family of Gershon. (Numbers 3:24).

Levijoined unto. Third son of Leah and Jacob, from whom the priestly tribe descended, and whose name they bore. (Numbers 1:49 et passim).

Libnahwhiteness, transparent. The fifth camp of Israel after leaving Sinai. (Numbers 33:20-21).

Libniwhite, distinguished. Son of Gershon, and head of the Libnites. (Numbers 3:18; Numbers 3:21; Numbers 26:58).

Machimeaning uncertain. One of the twelve spies; of the tribe of Gad. (Numbers 13:15).

Machirsalesman. Son of Manasseh to whom Moses pledged the territory of Gilead. (Numbers 26:29; Numbers 32:39-40).

Mahlisickness or weakness. Son of Merari of the Levites. (Numbers 3:20).

Makhelothassemblies. Camp of the Israelites of uncertain location. (Numbers 33:25-26).

MalchielGod is king. Son of Beriah and grandson of Asher. (Numbers 26:45).

Manassehcausing to forget. Tribe descended from the first son of Joseph. They were given a share of the land east of the Jordan. (Numbers 27:1).

Marahbitter. The first camp of Israel after crossing the Red Sea; Moses healed the brackish waters of the area. (Numbers 33:8 ff).

Mattanahgift. An unidentified station of the Israelites in the wilderness. (Numbers 21:18 ff).

Medadaffectionate. An elder who remained in the camp apart from the other elders, but upon whom, along with Eldad, the spirit of prophecy fell. (Numbers 11:26-27).

Medebagently flowing waters. A city conquered by the Israelites at the same time they took Heshbon and Dibon. (Numbers 21:30).

Meraribitter. The third son of Levi. This family of priests cared for the curtains, covers, hangings and other similar items of the tabernacle. (Numbers 3:17; Numbers 3:20; Numbers 3:25-26; Numbers 3:33; Numbers 3:36-37, et passim).

Meribahstrife, contention. Site of the rock where Moses brought forth water presumptuously. Located in Rephidim near Kadesh-Barnea. (Numbers 20:13; Numbers 20:24; Numbers 27:14).

Michaelwho is like God? Father of Sethur, who was sent as Asher's representative among the spies. (Numbers 13:13).

Midiancontention. Land east of Edom whose people were at first friendly toward the Israelites in the desert, but who later were numbered with the Moabites in warfare. (Numbers 22:4, et passim).

Milcahcounsel. One of the daughters of Zelophehad. (Numbers 26:33; Numbers 27:1; Numbers 36:11).

Miriamfat, thick. Sister of Moses and Aaron. She opposed Moses at Hazeroth, was smitten with leprosy, and was cured upon Aaron's intercession. She died and was buried at Kadesh. (Numbers 12:1-5; Numbers 10; Numbers 11; Numbers 12; Numbers 13; Numbers 14; Numbers 15; Numbers 20:1).

Mithcahsweetness. One of the wilderness camps of Israel. (Numbers 33:28 ff.)

Moabwater of a father. Land east of the Dead Sea and north of Edom through which the Israelites passed. Worshipers of Chemosh and the Baalim, the inhabitants lured Israel into grave sin, resulting in a war in which Moab was defeated. (Numbers 21:11, et passim).

Moserothbonds. Camp of the Israelites in the desert; it was here that Aaron died and was buried (Numbers 33:30-31).

Mosesdrawn out. The great leader and prophet of Israel. This book chronicles many of the most important events in the life of Moses: he is directed to take the census of his people (Numbers 1:2 ff); he encounters the murmuring of his brother and sister, Aaron and Miriam about his Ethiopian wife, with the consequent punishment to Miriam (Numbers 12:1-15); the twelve spies are sent into Canaan, but the children of Israel refuse to march forward into the land (Numbers 13; Numbers 14:1-9); Moses utters one of his great intercessory prayers (Numbers 14:13-19); Korah, Dathan, and Abiram lead a rebellion of the people, and suffer the consequences (Numbers 16:1-35); acting rashly, Moses strikes the rock at Meribah, and is told that his disobedience will prevent his entering into Canaan (Numbers 20:2-13); Miriam dies (Numbers 20:1), as does Aaron (Numbers 20:24-29); Israel defeats Sihon and Og in great battles (ch. 21); the people sin flagrantly with Baal-Peor (ch. 25); the second census (Numbers 26:1-63); Joshua is appointed to succeed Moses (Numbers 27:18-23); the Midianites are slaughtered (ch. 31); Reuben, Gad, and one-half of Manasseh are conditionally allowed to settle east of the Jordan (ch. 32); all the journeys of the people are listed (ch. 33); the borders of Canaan are established (Numbers 34:1-12); the Levitical cities are set forth as cities of refuge (ch. 35). Throughout all the forty years of this period of Moses-' life, he is the unquestioned leader of Israel. Rebellions from within his own family, as well as among the priests, are quickly and effectively put down. The Lord speaks to him directly and frequently, as evidenced by the repeated phrase, The Lord spake unto Moses, (Numbers 1:1; Numbers 2:1; Numbers 3:1, et passim).

Perhaps the climax of all. this book is reached, however, with Moses-' rash action at Meribah. At one and the same time it demonstrates the humanness of this giant of a man, and the undiscriminating character of the judgment of our great God.

Mushiperhaps withdrawn. One of the sons of Merari. (Numbers 3:20).

Naamanpleasantness. A son of Bela, grandson of Benjamin. (Numbers 26:38; Numbers 26:40).

Nadabnoble. Aaron's firstborn son (Numbers 3:2). Suffered the death penalty, along with his brother Abihu, for offering -strange fire-'an unauthorized sacrificebefore the Lord. (Numbers 26:61).

Nahalieltorrent valley of God. One of the camps of Israel between the Arnon and Jericho; probably a tributary of the Arnon. (Numbers 21:19).

Nahshonoracle. Of the tribe of Judah, Nahshon was a brother-in-law of Aaron, and an ancestor of David. (Numbers 1:7).

Naphtalimighty wrestlings. The tribe descended from Jacob's fifth son. They numbered 53,400 in the first census; but they had decreased to 45,400 at the time of the second (Numbers 1:43, Numbers 2:30; Numbers 26:48 ff), The encamped on the north side of the tabernacle under the standard of Dan, together with Asher (Numbers 2:25 ff). When on the march, Naphtali brought up the rear (Numbers 2:31).

Neboheight. One of several cities assigned to Reuben, along with Heshbon and Elealeh (Numbers 32:3).

Neboheight. High mountain in Moab near the northeastern tip of the Dead Sea, from which Moses viewed the Promised Land, and later, died (Numbers 33:47).

NemuelGod is spreading. 1. Brother of Dathan and Abiram, and of the tribe of Reuben (Numbers 26:9). 2. Son of Simeon (Numbers 26:12).

NethanaelGod has given. One of the princes of the tribe of Issachar (Numbers 1:8; Numbers 2:5; Numbers 7:18; Numbers 7:23; Numbers 10:15).

Noahmovement. One of the daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 26:33; Numbers 27:1; Numbers 36:11).

Nobahprominent. 1. A Manassite who conquered Kenath, an Amorite city in the Transjordan (Numbers 32:42). 2. Name given to Kenath after it was conquered by Nobah of Manasseh (Numbers 31:20).

Nophahheight. City in the kingdom of Sihon, near Medeba (Numbers 21:30).

Nunfish. Father of Joshua (Numbers 11:28, et passim).

Obothwaterbags. The third wilderness encampment of Israel after leaving Mt. Hor; near the border of Moab (Numbers 21:11; Numbers 33:43-44).

Ocrantrouble. Father of Pagiel, prince of the tribe of Asher (Numbers 1:13; Numbers 2:27, et passim).

Oglong-necked, or giant. The king of Bashan, which boasted 60 cities. Conquered by Moses and the army of Israel after the defeat of Sihon and the Amorites. The battle was fought at Edrei. (Numbers 21:33).

Onanvigorous. Son of Judah by Tamar; mentioned only in the genealogy of Numbers 26 (v. 19).

OsheaGod saves. Another form of -Joshua-'his original name was Hoshea (Numbers 13:8; Numbers 13:16).

Oznithe Lord hears. One of the sons of Gad (Numbers 26:16).

PagielGod meets. A prince of the tribe of Asher; son of Ocran. He led the tribe during their journeying with Israel. (Numbers 1:13; Numbers 2:27; Numbers 7:72; Numbers 10:26; Numbers 14; Numbers 22; Numbers 25).

Palludistinguished. Son of Reuben; perhaps to be identified with Peleth of Numbers 16:1. (See also Numbers 26:5; Numbers 26:8).

Paltithe Lord delivers. From the tribe of Benjamin, the spy sent to search out the land of Canaan by Moses. (Numbers 13:9).

PaltielGod's deliverance. A prince of Issachar. (Numbers 34:26).

Paranfull of caverns. A wilderness area southwest of the Dead Sea, consisting of a high limestone plateau. Much of the wandering of Israel during the forty years occurred in this area, which stretches broadly between Mt. Sinai and Canaan. (Numbers 10:12; Numbers 13:21, et passim).

Parnachgifted. The father of Elizaphan, prince of Zebulun. (Numbers 34:25).

Pedahelwhom God redeems. A prince of Naphtali who aided in apportioning the land of Canaan. (Numbers 34:17; Numbers 34:28).

Pedahzurthe rock delivers. Father of Gamaliel and head of the tribe of Manasseh when the exodus began. (Numbers 1:10; Numbers 2:20, et passim).

Pelethswiftness. The father of On, and one of those who rebelled against Moses and Aaron. (Numbers 16:1).

Peoropening. 1. A high mountain in the land of Moab, to which Balaam was sent by Balak in order to curse Israel; located about seven miles from Heshbon (Numbers 23:28). 2. The name of Moab's god whose worship required gross immorality; participation in this exercise brought a grave plague upon the Israelites. (Numbers 25).

Pethorextension. Home of Balaam, on the Euphrates river. (Numbers 22:5).

Pharezbreaking forth. Same as Perez; the older son of Judah by Tamar, and ancestor of the Pharzites. (Numbers 26:20-21).

Phinehasoracle. Grandson of Aaron and son of Eleazar, he led the attack against Zimri, who had brought evil into the camp through a Midianite woman: both were killed, ending the licentiousness at Shittim (Numbers 25:6-18). He went against the Midianites (Numbers 31:6), and was promised that his descendants would hold a place of service among the priests. (Numbers 25:11-13).

Pi-hahiroththe place of the meadows (?). An unidentified place on the Israelites-' journey toward the Red Sea. Probably about ten miles from the site of modern Suez, along the old shore line of the Sea.

Pisgahthe peak. Another name for Nebo. From this peak, whose name always bears the article in Hebrew, Moses viewed the Promised Land; here he died.

Puautterance. The second son of Issachar, and father of the Punites, who were counted in the census by Moses and Eleazar.

Punonore-pit. Second camp of the Israelites after leaving Mount Hor; east of Edom, between Selah and Zoar.

RaguelJah is a friend. Another form of Reuel, Moses-' father-in-law; also called Jethro. (Numbers 10:29).

Ramesesson of the sun. City of Egypt, of uncertain location; built by Hebrew labor (Exodus 1:11). Named as one of the cities from which the Israelites fled Egypt. (Numbers 33:3; Numbers 33:5).

Raphufeared, or, one healed. Father of Palti, who was selected as a spy from the tribe of Benjamin. (Numbers 13:9).

Rebasprout, or one-fourth. One of five chieftains of the Midianites slain in battle with the Israelites under Moses. (Numbers 31:8).

Red Seasea of rushes or seaweeds, or, simply yam the sea. An arm of the Indian Ocean extending approximately 1,350 miles in a northwesterly direction, separating the continents of Africa and Asia. At its widest, it is 250 miles across; near its northern extremity the Sea is divided into the Sea of Aqaba, which lied almost due north-south beneath the Dead Sea and the Land of Edom; and the Gulf of Suez, which separates the peninsula of Sinai from Egypt. Strangely, not one river empties into its waters, which are derived from the Indian Ocean. In the northern portion of the Gulf of Suez, lush bulrushes have grown. The term -red-' is of uncertain origin with reference to the Sea. Some have speculated the term to have originated because of the presence of red coral, or of zoophytes in the waters; others associate the color with mountains on the western coast.

Rehobbroad. The term may be applied to a road or a plain; it was the northernmost penetration of the Promised Land by the twelve spies (Numbers 13:21).

Rekemfriendship. One of the five kings or chieftains of Moab killed in battle with the Israelites under Moses (Numbers 31:8).

Rephidimrests. A station where the Israelites encountered and defeated Amalek; here they anticipated finding water, but the streams were dry. God miraculously supplied the element, as Moses struck a rock as instructed by the Lord. The location is near Horeb, in a fertile valley.

Reubenbehold, a son. The first son of Jacob, and father of the Reubenites. 46,500 men were counted in the first census; they had decreased to 43,730 men of war at the second counting. The Reubenites requested, and received permission to stake their claim to land east of the Jordan, and were granted the southernmost portion, which lay east of the northern half of the Dead Sea, above the Arnon River.

Riblahbare place, Site mentioned in Numbers 34:11 as located on the eastern boundary of Israel. Such a location is not known; there are variants which would allow this as a reference to Harbel, in the vicinity of Mt. Hermon.

Rimmon-pareztwin pomegranates (?). A camp of Israel in the wilderness; unidentified; fourth stop after leaving Sinai. (Numbers 33:19).

Rissahdew. The sixth camp of Israel after leaving Sinai. (Numbers 33:21-22).

Rithmahbroom. The third Israelite camp after leaving Sinai; may be the same as Kadesh. (Numbers 13:26).

Salumiserable, unfortunate. A prince and head of a house of the tribe of Simeon; father of Zimri, slain by Phinehas and the Midianite woman he had brought into the camp. (Numbers 25:14).

Sarahprincess. Daughter of Asher. (Numbers 26:46).

Seirrough, wooded. Mountain, and also a hilly region south of the Dead Sea in Edom. (Numbers 24:18).

Seredescape. The first son of Zebulun. (Numbers 26:26).

Sethurhidden. Son of Michael, of the tribe of Asher; chosen as the spy from that tribe. (Numbers 13:13).

Shammuafamous. Son of Zacchur, of the tribe of Reuben; chosen as their spy. (Numbers 13:4).

Shaphatjudge. Son of Hori, of the tribe of Simeon; chosen as that tribe's spy. (Numbers 13:5).

Shapherfair. A mountain near one of the camping sites of Israel. (Numbers 33:23).

Shaulasked. A son of Simeon, sometimes also referred to as the son of a Canaanitish woman. (Numbers 26:13). Shebambalsam. Once a Moabite city, later taken by the Reubenites. Near the capital city of Heshbon. (Numbers 32:3).

Shechemshoulder. Son of Gilead, son of Manasseh; ancestor of the Shechemites. (Numbers 26:31).

Shedeurday-break. Father of Elizur, chief of the tribe of Reuben. (Numbers 1:5; Numbers 2:10; Numbers 7:30).

Shelahpeace. Ancestor of the Shelanites (Numbers 26:20), of the tribe of Judah by Shua the Canaanite's daughter.

ShelomiJah is peace. The father of Ahihud, a chieftain of the Asherites, who was appointed to help divide the land of Canaan. (Numbers 34:27).

ShelumielGod is peace. Son of Zurishaddai, of the tribe of Simeon; appointed to help Moses in the census. (Numbers 1:6 ff).

Shemidafame of knowing. A son of Gilead, of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 26:32).

Shemuelname of God. A chieftain of the Simeonites, appointed to help divide the land of Canaan. (Numbers 34:20).

Shephanfruitful. Named as a point on the eastern boundary of Israel; perhaps a city in the hill country. (Numbers 34:10).

Sheshaifree, noble. One of the sons of Anaka clan living in Hebron at the time Israel came into the land. (Numbers 13:22).

Shethappointed. An unidentified tribe, probably Moabites, named in the parable of Balaam. (Numbers 24:17).

Shibmahbalsam. A Moabite city taken by the Reubenites, near Kirjathaim. (Numbers 32:38).

Shillemrecompense. Fourth son of Naphtali, and ancestor of the Shillemites. (Numbers 26:49).

Shimeifame. A son of Gershon, son of Levi. (Numbers 3:18).

Shimronwatch. The fourth son of Issachar, and ancestor of the Shimronites. (Numbers 26:24).

Shiphtanjudge. Father of Kemuel, a prince of the Ephraimites appointed to divide the land of Canaan. (Numbers 34:24).

Shittimthe acacias, The final camping place of Israel before crossing the Jordan. Here the people fell to the evil counsel of Balaam, committing great sins with the Moabites, and incurred divine wrath and retribution. (Numbers 25:1 ff).

Shophannakedness. Or, Atroth-Shophan. A city in the territory of Gad. (Numbers 32:35).

Shuhampit. Son of Dan, and ancestor of the Shuhamites. (Numbers 26:42 ff).

Shuphamserpent. Gentilic form of a name given one of the families of Benjamin, whose original form is not known. (Numbers 26:39).

Shunifortunate. The third son of Gad. (Numbers 26:15).

Shuthelahsetting of Telah. A son of Ephraim. (Numbers 26:35-36).

Sihonbold. A king of the Amorites against whom Israel fought successfully. King of Heshbon, his defeat was essential to the advance and occupation of the Israelites east of the Jordan. (Numbers 21:21, et passim).

Simeonhearing. Second son of Jacob by Leah; his descendants numbered 59,000 in the census. (Numbers 1:6, et passim).

Sinloamy, clay. Desert area between Elim and Sinai, east of theGulf of Suez. (Numbers 33:11-12).

Sinaipointed, or peaked. Both a desert and a mountain, the south-central portion of the peninsula between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba. The same area is also often called -Horeb-', without any apparent distinction between the terms. Three peaks rise in parallel pillars from the valley to the north; the central one has been called Jebel Musa (-the mountain of Moses-'), and is traditionally that one the great prophet ascended to receive the tablets of the Law. (Numbers 1:1, et passim).

SodiJah decides. A Zebulonite, father of Gaddiel, who was one of the twelve spies sent into Canaan. (Numbers 13:10).

Succothbooths. The first camp of the Israelites after leaving Rameses. (Numbers 33:5-6).

Susihorsemen. Father of Gaddi, and one of the spies who was sent into Canaan; of the tribe of Manasseh. (Numbers 13:11).

Taberahburning. An unidentified camping place of the Israelites, three days-' journey north of Sinai, where the people murmured and were punished. (Numbers 11:3).

Tahangraciousness. A son of Ephraim. (Numbers 26:35).

Tahathbelow, humility. One of the stations of the Israelites in the wilderness. (Numbers 33:26-27).

Talmaispirited. One of the sons of Anak in Hebron. (Numbers 13:22).

Tarahturning. A station of the Israelites after leaving Sinai. (Numbers 33:27-28).

Tirzahdelight. Zelophehad's youngest daughter. (Numbers 26:33 ff).

Tolaworm; crimson. One of the sons of Issachar. (Numbers 26:23).

UzzielGod is my strength. One of the descendants of Levi through Kohath. (Numbers 3:19; Numbers 3:27; Numbers 3:30).

Vophsirich. Father of Nahbi, spy from the tribe of Naphtali. (Numbers 13:14).

Zacchurventriloquist. (?). One of the spies sent into the land of Canaan; he was a Reubenite, and the father of Shammuah. (Numbers 13:4).

Zalmonahgloomy. The third station of the Israelites from Ezion-geber; near the southern area of the Salt Sea. (Numbers 33:41-42).

Zaredwillow bush. A valley and brook forming the boundary between Moab and Edom at the southeastern tip of the Salt Sea. (Numbers 21:12).

Zebulundwelling. The tenth son of Jacob, and Leah's sixth. He moved with Judah when marching, and was first in the marching order. (Numbers 1:9, et passim).

Zedadsloping place. A place in northern Canaan, named as a point of identification for the border, near Hamath. (34; 8).

Zelophehadmeaning unknown. Grandson of Gilead, and son of Manasseh. He died without sons, and his land was allocated to his daughters. (Numbers 26:33 ff).

Zephondark (?). A son of Gad. (Numbers 26:15).

Zerahsprout, Younger of the twin sons of Judah and Tamar; ancestor of the Zerahites. (Numbers 26:20).

Zimricelebrated, or wild sheep. A prince of the Simeonites who was killed, along with the Midianite woman, Cozbi, by Phinehas, son of Aaron. (Numbers 25:14).

Zinlow land. A wilderness identified with the wilderness of Kadesh; the two names appear to be interchangeable. The spies were sent northward from this area, which is south of Judah, and southwest of the Salt Sea. (Numbers 13:21, et passim).

Ziphronbeautiful top. A place in northern Palestine. (Numbers 34:9).

Zipporsparrow, bird. The father of Balak, Moabite king, who procured Balaam to curse Israel. (Numbers 22:2 ff).

ZoanImigration. Capital of Egypt, located on the eastern side of the Nile delta. The only certainly fixed site in Egypt which is positively identified with the Israelites in that country. (Numbers 13:22).

Zophimfield of watchers. A spot on top of Mt. Pisgah to which Balak brought Balaam. (Numbers 23:14).

Zuarlittle one. Father of Nethanel, who was the head of the tribe of Issachar. (Numbers 1:8, et passim).

Zurrock. A chief among the Midianites, and father of the woman slain with Zimri. (Numbers 25:14; Numbers 31:8).

Zurielmy God is a rock. Son of Abihail, a Merarite, and the head of the families of Merari. (Numbers 3:35).

Zurishaddaimy rock is the Almighty, The father of Shelumiel, head of the tribe of Simeon. (Numbers 1:6, et passim).