Numbers 32 16

Numbers 32:16 kjv

And they came near unto him, and said, We will build sheepfolds here for our cattle, and cities for our little ones:

Numbers 32:16 nkjv

Then they came near to him and said: "We will build sheepfolds here for our livestock, and cities for our little ones,

Numbers 32:16 niv

Then they came up to him and said, "We would like to build pens here for our livestock and cities for our women and children.

Numbers 32:16 esv

Then they came near to him and said, "We will build sheepfolds here for our livestock, and cities for our little ones,

Numbers 32:16 nlt

But they approached Moses and said, "We simply want to build pens for our livestock and fortified towns for our wives and children.

Numbers 32 verses

Numbers 32 16 Meaning

Numbers 32:16 records the swift and wise proposal by the tribes of Reuben and Gad to Moses. After Moses expresses strong reservations about their request to settle east of the Jordan, fearing they would discourage the rest of Israel from entering the promised land, these tribes articulate a plan. They commit to first building protective enclosures for their numerous livestock and fortified cities for their vulnerable wives and young children in their desired territory. This commitment serves as a crucial pledge of their future cooperation and a direct answer to Moses' concerns about their fidelity to the communal task of conquering Canaan.

Numbers 32 16 Context

Numbers chapter 32 recounts a pivotal interaction at the plains of Moab before Israel crossed the Jordan River into Canaan. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, possessing large herds, noticed the excellent grazing lands of Gilead and suggested settling there permanently (Numb 32:1-5). Moses reacted with indignation, drawing a strong parallel to the unfaithfulness at Kadesh-Barnea 40 years earlier, when Israel's lack of faith prevented their immediate entry into Canaan and led to the death of the wilderness generation (Numb 32:6-15). He feared that their desire to settle separately would discourage the other tribes and lead to divine wrath once again. Numbers 32:16 is the tribes' immediate and strategic response to Moses' rebuke. They propose a counter-offer that addresses Moses' core concerns about their commitment to the national cause. Historically, this demonstrated an understanding of corporate responsibility within the Israelite nation, counteracting any perception of selfish tribal ambition. This willingness to fight alongside their brethren was crucial for national unity and divine blessing on the conquest, providing a powerful contrast to previous episodes of distrust and disobedience.

Numbers 32 16 Word analysis

• So: Hebrew wa (וָֽ), a conjunctive particle often translated as "and," "but," or "so." Here, it signifies a direct consequence or response to the preceding conversation, marking the beginning of their reply to Moses' challenge.
• they came near: Hebrew wāyiqrᵉḇû (וַיִּגְּשׁוּ֙), a Qal imperfect form of nāgaš (נגש), meaning "to draw near," "approach." This suggests a respectful, proactive, and deliberate act of presenting their case, rather than a hesitant or defiant one. It highlights their willingness to engage in dialogue and find a solution.
• to him: Refers to Moses, the appointed leader of Israel, emphasizing that their proposal was directly submitted to his authority for approval.
• and said: Hebrew wayyoʾmᵉrû (וַיֹּאמְר֖וּ), standard introduction to a direct speech. It sets a formal tone for their proposal.
• We will build: Hebrew niḇneh (נִבְנֶ֥ה), Qal imperfect of bānāh (בנה), "to build." The first-person plural indicates a collective, active commitment from the tribes. The future tense implies a clear intent and promise to perform these actions.
• sheepfolds: Hebrew gᵊdērōt (גְּדֵרֹ֛ת), plural of gādēr (גדר), referring to "stone enclosures," "fences," or "corrals." These were vital protective structures for their livestock, especially sheep and goats, against predators (like wolves or lions) and raiders. It reflects their pastoral livelihood and practical need for immediate security for their wealth.
• here: Hebrew pōh (פֹּ֛ה), meaning "here" or "at this place." It confirms their desire for the specific region east of the Jordan but crucially links this initial construction phase to their future actions, emphasizing that their settlement activities would be prior to engaging in battle across the Jordan.
• for our livestock: Hebrew ləmiqnēnū (לְמִקְנֵ֣נוּ), from miqneh (מקנה), referring to "livestock" or "flocks," including cattle, sheep, and goats. Their large number of livestock (Numb 32:1) was the primary motivation for seeking land suitable for grazing, thus highlighting their practical concern for their abundant possessions.
• and cities: Hebrew wə‘ārîm (וְעָרִ֖ים), plural of ‘îr (עיר), meaning "city," "town," or "settlement." In this context, it implies permanent, defensible dwellings. These would likely be fortified against human threats, similar to the strongholds described elsewhere in Canaan.
• for our little ones: Hebrew ləṭappēnu (לְטַפֵּ֑נוּ), from ṭap̄ (טף), which broadly refers to "young children," including infants and toddlers. It often includes women in a general sense when referring to the non-combatant population (e.g., Exod 10:10). The inclusion of "little ones" emphasizes their vulnerability and the urgent need for secure, permanent housing to protect them, making it a priority.

• "We will build sheepfolds... and cities": This phrase group signifies a clear division of labor and priority. First, the essential protection for their livelihood (livestock) and then secure housing for their families. It indicates a structured and thought-out plan, demonstrating practical foresight.
• "sheepfolds here for our livestock and cities for our little ones": This pairing directly addresses their immediate family and economic needs. It conveys their commitment to establish a safe home base for their dependents and resources before engaging in warfare. The placement of "here" indicates their firm decision about their preferred territory.

Numbers 32 16 Bonus section

The speed and content of the Reubenites' and Gadites' response (occurring directly after Moses' rebuke in 32:6-15, which covered 40 years of wilderness wandering history in a sharp lecture) demonstrate not only their practical intelligence but also a degree of spiritual maturity not always seen in Israel's wilderness journey. They didn't argue or get defensive; instead, they proposed a solution that simultaneously addressed their needs and alleviated Moses' significant, history-informed anxieties. Their offer effectively shifted the narrative from a potential repeat of disobedience to a renewed display of covenant loyalty. This swift, sensible resolution contrasts sharply with the long, stubborn period of unbelief that typified the previous generation. It provided the basis for a conditional acceptance by Moses, ultimately fostering national cohesion as they prepared to enter the promised land.

Numbers 32 16 Commentary

Numbers 32:16 encapsulates a critical turning point in the negotiations between Moses and the Transjordanian tribes. Their proposition was not a mere compromise but a strategic display of faithfulness and integrity. They recognized Moses' legitimate concerns regarding past failures of trust within Israel and offered a proactive, tangible solution. By committing to secure their families and possessions first within the desired land, they showed their intention to relieve themselves of these primary anxieties so they could then fully devote themselves to the military campaign on behalf of the entire nation. This arrangement not only reassured Moses of their sincerity but also served as a pledge that would prevent internal strife and maintain unity during the formidable task of conquering Canaan. Their commitment established a principle of prioritizing the collective mission over individual convenience, a vital lesson for the corporate body of believers today, highlighting that true service involves putting communal responsibilities before personal comfort.