Numbers 20:19
And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go by the high way: and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it: I will only, without doing any thing else, go through on my feet.
Numbers 20:19 · King James Version
Meaning
Here, the children of Israel are politely asking for permission to pass through the land of the Amorites peacefully. They promise to stick to the high road and not veer off course, indicating their desire to respect the territory of the Amorites. The children of Israel offer to pay for any water their animals may drink along the way, demonstrating their willingness to compensate for their use of resources. This verse highlights the importance of respecting others' property and being considerate of those whose land one may be passing through. It also serves as a reminder of the value of honesty and integrity in interactions with others. By following the high road and offering to pay for resources used, the children of Israel demonstrate their commitment to maintaining peace and goodwill with their neighbors.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the children of Israel are interacting with the Edomites as they journey towards the Promised Land. The theological interpretation of this passage shows the value placed on hospitality and cooperation among fellow believers. The Israelites express their intention to travel through Edom peacefully, only requesting access to water for themselves and their livestock. This demonstrates a respect for the land of others and a willingness to pay for what they need, rather than simply taking it. The word studies of this verse reveal the importance of honoring agreements and being fair in our dealings with others. The Israelites' offer to pay for the water they use exemplifies integrity and shows a desire to maintain positive relationships with their neighbors. As we reflect on this verse, we are reminded of the biblical principles of honesty, humility, and kindness as we interact with those around us on our own journeys of faith.
Numbers 20:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the children of Israel said unto him, We will go up by the highway; and if we drink of thy water, I and my cattle, then will I give the price thereof: let me only, without [doing] anything [else], pass through on my feet.
World English Bible
The children of Israel said to him, “We will go up by the highway; and if we drink your water, I and my livestock, then I will give its price. Only let me, without doing anything else, pass through on my feet.”
Douay-Rheims
And the children of Israel said: We will go by the beaten way: and if we and our cattle drink of thy waters, we will give thee what is just: there shall be no difficulty in the price, only let us pass speedily.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the children of Israel said vnto him, We will goe vp by the hie way: and if I and my cattell drinke of thy water, I will then pay for it: I will onely (without any harme) goe through on my feete.