Old Testament
Numbers 10:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moses urged him, "Please don't leave us. You know this wilderness and where to set up camp — you can be our eyes out here."
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And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.
What Numbers 10:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses is speaking to Hobab, his brother-in-law, and asking him not to leave the Israelite camp as they journey through the wilderness. Moses recognizes Hobab's knowledge of the terrain and his ability to guide them in setting up their camps. The wilderness is a challenging and unfamiliar place, and having someone who understands the landscape is crucial for their survival and success. Moses appeals to Hobab's experience, emphasizing that he would serve as their 'eyes,' helping them navigate the difficulties ahead. This moment highlights the importance of community and support during challenging times, as well as the value of relying on those with experience and knowledge to guide us through unfamiliar situations. It reflects a deep sense of trust and the need for companionship in the journey of life, especially in times of uncertainty.
How to apply Numbers 10:31 to your life
In our lives, we often face uncertain paths where guidance is essential. Like Moses, we should seek out those with experience and wisdom to help us navigate challenges. Building a supportive community can provide the insight and encouragement we need to move forward confidently.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Leaving Mount Sinai (Numbers 10:11–36)
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Moses
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Numbers 10:31
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 10:31 mean?
In Numbers 10:31, Moses is asking Hobab not to leave the Israelite camp during their journey through the wilderness. He values Hobab's knowledge of the terrain, which is crucial for setting up their camps and navigating the challenges ahead.
What is the significance of Hobab in Numbers 10:31?
Hobab is significant in this verse because he possesses valuable knowledge of the wilderness, which Moses recognizes as essential for the Israelites' survival. His guidance would help them navigate the unfamiliar landscape.
How does Numbers 10:31 relate to community support?
Numbers 10:31 highlights the importance of community support by showing how Moses relies on Hobab's experience. It illustrates that having knowledgeable individuals in our lives can help us navigate difficult situations.
What lessons can we learn from Numbers 10:31?
From Numbers 10:31, we learn the value of seeking guidance from those with experience and the importance of community during challenging times. It encourages us to build relationships that provide support and insight.
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