Numbers 31:6
And Moses sent them to the war, a thousand of every tribe, them and Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, to the war, with the holy instruments, and the trumpets to blow in his hand.
Numbers 31:6 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, Moses sends out a thousand men from each tribe, along with Phinehas the son of Eleazar, who is a priest. They are being sent into battle with the holy instruments and trumpets to blow. This action symbolizes unity and readiness for war among the tribes of Israel. The use of the trumpets is significant as it serves as a way to communicate with the troops during battle and is a reminder of God's presence and protection. Phinehas being included in the group highlights the importance of having spiritual guidance and leadership in times of conflict. By equipping the men with holy tools and involving a religious authority figure, Moses is demonstrating the importance of faith and reliance on God in times of struggle. Additionally, the sending out of men from each tribe shows the collective effort and solidarity of the entire community in defending their land and people.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see Moses sending a thousand men from each tribe along with Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, to war. The mention of Phinehas, the priest, is significant in highlighting the spiritual aspect of the battle they are about to face. The priests played a crucial role in leading the people in worship and seeking guidance from God. Additionally, the reference to the "holy instruments" and the "trumpets" signifies the importance of acknowledging God's presence in the midst of war. The use of these instruments was not only for signaling purposes but also as a reminder that God was with them in their battles. The mention of the trumpets in this context also draws on the spiritual significance attached to them in the Old Testament, where they were used to signal important events or announcements. Overall, this verse highlights the intertwining of spiritual and physical warfare, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's guidance and presence even in times of conflict.
Numbers 31:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Moses sent them, a thousand of every tribe, to the war, them and Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, to the war, with the vessels of the sanctuary and the trumpets for the alarm in his hand.
World English Bible
Moses sent them, one thousand of every tribe, to the war, them and Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, to the war, with the vessels of the sanctuary and the trumpets for the alarm in his hand.
Douay-Rheims
And Moses sent them with Phinees the son of Eleazar the priest, and he delivered to him the holy vessels, and the trumpets to sound.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Moses sent them to the warre, euen a thousand of euery tribe, and sent them with Phinehas the sonne of Eleazar the Priest to the warre: and the holy instruments, that is, the trumpets to blow were in his hand.