Old Testament

Numbers 10:31

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

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.

Author: Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written: Around 1400 BC
Genre: Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience: The Israelites in the wilderness

CBTClear Bible Translation

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."

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

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. Explore related guidance.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

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

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.

Book Summary

The Book of Numbers

Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.

The tribe of Levi is not numbered with the others. The Levites are appointed over the tabernacle of testimony, its furniture, and everything that belongs to it. They are to carry it, set it up, take it down, and camp around it so wrath does not come on the congregation, while the other tribes camp by their own standards. Numbers 2: Camp Arrangement and Marching Order The LORD assigns the layout of Israel's camp around the tabernacle, with each tribe grouped under its standard. On the east side, Judah camps with Issachar and Zebulun, led by Nahshon, with a stated count for each tribe and a total for that side. On the south side, Reuben camps with Simeon and Gad, led by Elizur, with counts and a total. On the west side, Ephraim camps with Manasseh and Benjamin, led by Elishama, with counts and a total. On the north side, Dan camps with Asher and Naphtali, led by Ahiezer, with counts and a total. The Levites camp around the tabernacle in the center, and when Israel moves, the groups set out in the same order as they camp. Numbers 3: Levites Assigned and Firstborn Counted The record identifies Moses and Aaron and Aaron's sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. Nadab and Abihu die before the LORD when they offer "strange fire," and Eleazar and Ithamar serve as priests under Aaron. The LORD sets the tribe of Levi apart, placing them under Aaron to serve in the tabernacle work on behalf of the children of Israel.

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