Numbers 20:18 – “But Edom answered: ‘You may not pass through here; if you try, we will march out and attack you with the sword.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Numbers 20:18, we see the response from the king of Edom to Moses’ respectful request for the Israelites to pass through their territory. Despite Moses’ assurances that the Israelites would stay on the main road, not touch Edom’s resources, and simply pass through, the Edomites refused. Their answer was not just a simple “no” but a direct threat: if the Israelites tried to pass through, Edom would come out against them with force.
This rejection was not just a refusal of passage but also a denial of any sense of kinship or compassion between the two nations. Edom’s harsh response reflects longstanding tensions between the descendants of Esau (Edom) and the descendants of Jacob (Israel). Despite the peaceful intentions of Moses and the Israelites, Edom’s answer shows hostility and a willingness to resort to violence to protect their land.
Historical Context
The background of this verse is rooted in the complex relationship between Israel and Edom. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob (Israel), making them relatives of the Israelites. Despite their shared ancestry, the relationship between these two nations was often strained, marked by past conflicts and competition dating back to the struggles between Jacob and Esau.
At this point in the journey, the Israelites were camped at Kadesh and needed to pass through Edom to continue their journey to the Promised Land. The “king’s highway” was a major trade route that would have provided a direct path through Edomite territory. Moses’ appeal to Edom was a diplomatic effort to secure safe passage, but Edom’s refusal highlights the deep-seated animosity that existed between the two nations, despite their shared heritage.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 20:18 serves as a reminder that even when we act with humility and respect, we may still face rejection and hostility. Moses approached Edom with a peaceful request, but Edom’s response was one of threat and aggression. This highlights the reality that doing the right thing does not always guarantee a positive outcome from others.
This verse also reflects the challenges that God’s people often face when trying to navigate through a world that is not always welcoming or understanding of their journey. Edom’s response is a reminder that opposition is a reality in the life of faith, and that believers must continue to trust in God’s guidance, even when doors are closed and pathways are blocked.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 20:18 is structured as a stark contrast to Moses’ respectful and peaceful request. The dialogue shifts from Moses’ hopeful plea to Edom’s blunt and threatening response. The language used—“we will march out and attack you with the sword”—is strong and confrontational, reflecting the hostility and tension between the two nations.
The verse captures the abruptness of the rejection and the seriousness of the threat. Edom’s refusal is not open for negotiation; it’s a flat-out denial with the added weight of a military threat. This sharp contrast between the Israelites’ peaceful approach and Edom’s hostile response underscores the difficulties Moses faced in leading the people through this critical stage of their journey.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 27:41 – Esau’s anger toward Jacob after losing his father’s blessing, setting the stage for the ongoing conflict between their descendants.
- Amos 1:11 – God’s judgment against Edom for its perpetual anger against Israel, highlighting the long-standing hostility between the two nations.
- Romans 12:18 – A call to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on us, reminding us of our responsibility to seek peace even when others refuse.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 20:18 teaches us that, despite our best efforts to act in peace, we may still face rejection and opposition. Moses’ experience with Edom serves as a reminder that not everyone will respond positively, even when approached with respect and good intentions. This verse challenges believers to remain steadfast in their journey, trusting God even when others oppose them.
This passage also encourages Christians to recognize that hostility from others is not necessarily a reflection of our actions but often stems from deeper issues or past conflicts. It’s a call to keep our hearts open and to continue seeking peace, even when faced with resistance, knowing that our actions are guided by a desire to honor God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Numbers 20:18 highlights God’s ongoing guidance and protection, even when doors are closed. Despite Edom’s refusal, God continued to lead the Israelites on their journey, showing that His plans are not thwarted by human opposition. God’s love is seen in His faithfulness to His people, providing direction and protection even in the face of rejection.
This verse also reflects that God’s love does not always remove obstacles but instead equips us to navigate through them. Edom’s refusal was a setback, but it did not stop God’s plan for Israel. God’s love is steadfast, ensuring that His people have what they need to continue forward, even when faced with hostility.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who faced rejection and hostility throughout His ministry. Just as Edom denied Israel passage, Jesus was often met with opposition, from religious leaders to those who rejected His message. Yet, Jesus continued His mission with perseverance and grace, showing us how to respond when faced with rejection.
In John 1:11, we read that Jesus “came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” Christ’s experience of rejection reflects the reality that following God’s path often involves facing opposition. However, Jesus’ response—marked by love, persistence, and faithfulness—serves as a model for how Christians can handle rejection with grace, trusting in God’s greater plan.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when your respectful efforts or peaceful requests are met with rejection?
- What can Moses’ experience with Edom teach us about handling hostility or opposition in our own lives?
- How does this verse challenge you to trust God’s guidance, even when others refuse to cooperate?
- In what ways can you continue to seek peace, following Christ’s example, even when faced with resistance?
- How does knowing that Jesus also faced rejection encourage you in your own journey of faith?
This verse reminds us that opposition is a part of the Christian journey, but God’s faithfulness never wavers. Through Christ, we find the strength to keep moving forward, trusting that God’s plans will prevail even when others stand in the way.