Numbers 13:25-29

How can a favorable report about the land lead toward fear?

Berean Standard Bible

25 After forty days the men returned from spying out the land, 26 and they went back to Moses, Aaron, and the whole congregation of Israel in the Wilderness of Paran at Kadesh. They brought back a report for the whole congregation and showed them the fruit of the land. 27 And they gave this account to Moses: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and indeed, it is flowing with milk and honey. Here is some of its fruit! 28 Nevertheless, the people living in the land are strong, and the cities are large and fortified. We even saw the descendants of Anak there. 29 The Amalekites live in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.”

What is the context?

After forty days the scouts return to Moses, Aaron, and the congregation at Kadesh. They display the fruit and affirm the land’s abundance.

Their report then emphasizes strong inhabitants, fortified cities, and the descendants of Anak, along with peoples living in different regions. The facts of fruitfulness and formidable opposition stand together. The following disagreement concerns what conclusion to draw about entering.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley reads the account as delivered before the congregation and notes the weight placed on the inhabitants’ strength. The USCCB notes likewise connect the imposing Anakim with the report’s fear. The narrative does not require pretending there are no obstacles in order to distinguish trust from unbelief.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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