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Numbers 31:29 meaning

In the context of Israel's military campaign against the Midianites, this verse underscores the importance of recognizing God’s authority over victories and spoils. After a holy war that resulted in significant gains, Moses instructs the leaders on how the spoils should be divided and where the tribute to God should be allocated. The soldiers, having faced peril in battle, are reminded of their obligation to return a portion of the bounty to the Lord as an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and involvement in their success.

This command emphasizes two critical principles: firstly, that all blessings and victories are ultimately due to God’s grace, and secondly, that it is vital for God’s people to maintain an attitude of gratitude and acknowledgment of that grace. The tribute provided not only serves as a reminder of God’s role in their endeavors but also supports the priests who lead the people in worship, illustrating the interconnectedness of worship and community responsibility. In doing so, Moses reflects on the collective identity of Israel as a people under divine governance, seeking to honor God with their gains (Numbers 31:29).

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Numbers 10:14-28 meaning. Verses 14 - 28 describe the order by which the tribes were to leave Sinai. It was the same order as described in Numbers 2:2 - 31. It began with the tribe of Judah, then the tearing down of the tabernacle was done. The other tribes followed in the order established by the LORD. The arrangement of the tribes around the tabernacle was discussed in Numbers 3:3 - 31. Also, the leaders of the tribes are named for the fourth time in the book of Numbers in this section. 
  • Genesis 31:25-32 meaning. Jacob and Laban confront hidden offenses and longstanding tensions, while unaware that Rachel’s secret theft will threaten the unity of the family.
  • Deuteronomy 18:1-8 meaning. Having dealt with the principles concerning a king, Moses then turns to another source of authority in the Promised Land when he instructs the Israelites on how the Levitical priests were to be supported. Since the Levitical priests would minister before the LORD at the central sanctuary, they were not supposed to do any secular job. They were to depend upon the dues and offerings of the other tribes.