Numbers 10:29
And Moses said unto Hobab, the son of Raguel the Midianite, Moses' father in law, We are journeying unto the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you: come thou with us, and we will do thee good: for the LORD hath spoken good concerning Israel.
Numbers 10:29 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, Moses is speaking to Hobab, who is his father-in-law, and inviting him to join the Israelites on their journey to the promised land. By inviting Hobab to travel with them, Moses is extending a gesture of goodwill towards him, offering to do good to him as they make their way to the place that the LORD has promised to give them. This verse also reveals Moses' humility and dependence on the guidance of the LORD, as he acknowledges that the LORD has spoken good concerning Israel. The invitation extended to Hobab is not only a practical one, as he would have knowledge of the terrain and could provide guidance on the journey, but it also symbolizes inclusion and unity among the people of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and working together towards a common goal, trusting in the promises of the LORD.
Theological Overview
Moses' invitation to Hobab, his father-in-law, reveals an interesting theological insight into the nature of God's promises and blessings for His people. In this verse, Moses acknowledges that the Israelites' journey to the promised land was divinely ordained by the LORD, who had promised to give them the land. By inviting Hobab to join them on their journey, Moses demonstrates his belief that the blessings of the LORD are not limited to the Israelites alone but are intended for all who choose to align themselves with God's people. This act of inclusion highlights the overarching theme of God's goodness and care for all nations, emphasizing that His promises extend beyond a specific group of people and are open to all who choose to follow Him. By inviting Hobab to share in the blessings promised to Israel, Moses exemplifies the inclusive nature of God's grace and mercy, reinforcing the idea that God's love knows no bounds and His blessings are available to all who seek Him.
Numbers 10:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Moses said unto Hobab, the son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses' father-in-law, We are journeying unto the place of which Jehovah said, I will give it you: come thou with us, and we will do thee good; for Jehovah hath spoken good concerning Israel.
World English Bible
Moses said to Hobab, the son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses’ father-in-law, “We are journeying to the place of which Yahweh said, ‘I will give it to you.’ Come with us, and we will treat you well; for Yahweh has spoken good concerning Israel.”
Douay-Rheims
And Moses said to Hobab the son of Raguel the Madianite, his kinsman: We are going towards the place which the Lord will give us: come with us, that we may do thee good: for the Lord hath promised good things to Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
After, Moses said vnto Hobab ye sonne of Reuel the Midianite, ye father in law of Moses, We go into the place, of which ye Lord said, I will giue it you: Come thou with vs, and we wil doe thee good: for ye Lord hath promised good vnto Israel.