Numbers 34:13
And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which the LORD commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half tribe:
Numbers 34:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, Moses is instructing the children of Israel on the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. The concept of inheriting land by lot was a common practice in ancient times, where the distribution of land was determined by drawing lots. This method ensured fairness and impartiality in the allocation of territories. The land that was to be given to the nine tribes and the half tribe was a gift from the Lord, who had promised this land to the descendants of Abraham. By following Moses' commandments, the Israelites would receive their rightful share of the Promised Land. This verse underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Moses is commanding the children of Israel to take possession of the land which was promised to them by the Lord. The phrase "inherit by lot" indicates that the division of the land was to be determined by casting lots, a method used to ensure that God's will was followed. The specific mention of the nine tribes and the half tribe highlights the fact that the land was to be divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, with two full tribes receiving their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River. This distribution was in accordance with God's command to Joshua to divide the land among the Israelites. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and the fulfillment of His promises to His people. It also serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God in providing for His people and fulfilling his covenant with them.
Numbers 34:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which Jehovah hath commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half-tribe;
World English Bible
Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, “This is the land which you shall inherit by lot, which Yahweh has commanded to give to the nine tribes, and to the half-tribe;
Douay-Rheims
And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying: This shall be the land which you shall possess by lot, and which the Lord hath commanded to be given to the nine tribes, and to the half tribe.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the lande which yee shall inherite by lot, which the Lord commanded to giue vnto nine tribes and halfe the tribe.