6Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, who were of those who spied out the land, tore their clothes.7They spoke to all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, “The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land.8If Yahweh delights in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it to us: a land which flows with milk and honey.9Only don’t rebel against Yahweh, neither fear the people of the land; for they are bread for us. Their defense is removed from over them, and Yahweh is with us. Don’t fear them.”
10But all the congregation threatened to stone them with stones. Yahweh’s glory appeared in the Tent of Meeting to all the children of Israel.
6 Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, who were of those who spied out the land, tore their clothes.
7 They spoke to all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, “The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land.
8 If Yahweh delights in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it to us: a land which flows with milk and honey.
9 Only don’t rebel against Yahweh, neither fear the people of the land; for they are bread for us. Their defense is removed from over them, and Yahweh is with us. Don’t fear them.”
10 But all the congregation threatened to stone them with stones. Yahweh’s glory appeared in the Tent of Meeting to all the children of Israel.
KJVKing James Version
6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
7 And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.
8 If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey.
9 Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not.
10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the LORD appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.
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JPSJPS Tanakh (1917)
6 And Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, who were of them that spied out the land, rent their clothes.
7 And they spoke unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying: 'The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding good land.
8 If the LORD delight in us, then He will bring us into this land, and give it unto us — a land which floweth with milk and honey.
9 Only rebel not against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us; their defence is removed from over them, and the LORD is with us; fear them not.'
10 But all the congregation bade stone them with stones, when the glory of the LORD appeared in the tent of meeting unto all the children of Israel.
2 Samuel 22:20(v8)He also brought me out into a large place. He delivered me, because he delighted in me.
Deuteronomy 7:18(v9)you shall not be afraid of them. You shall remember well what Yahweh your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt:
Isaiah 62:4(v8)You will not be called Forsaken any more, nor will your land be called Desolate any more; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land…
Numbers 13:27(vv7–8)They told him, and said, “We came to the land where you sent us. Surely it flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit.
Romans 8:31(vv8–9)What then shall we say about these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Show all 81 cross-references
Deuteronomy 10:15(v8)Only Yahweh had a delight in your fathers to love them, and he chose their offspring after them, even you above all peoples, as it is today.
Deuteronomy 31:6(v9)Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor…
Exodus 17:4(v10)Moses cried to Yahweh, saying, “What shall I do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me.”
Psalms 74:14(v9)You broke the heads of Leviathan in pieces. You gave him as food to people and desert creatures.
Psalms 147:10-11(v8)He doesn’t delight in the strength of the horse. He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. Yahweh takes pleasure in those who fear him, in…
Numbers 24:8(v9)God brings him out of Egypt. He has as it were the strength of the wild ox. He shall consume the nations his adversaries, shall break their…
Deuteronomy 31:8(v9)Yahweh himself is who goes before you. He will be with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be discouraged.”
1 Kings 10:9(v8)Blessed is Yahweh your God, who delighted in you, to set you on the throne of Israel. Because Yahweh loved Israel forever, therefore he…
2 Chronicles 20:17(v9)You will not need to fight this battle. Set yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of Yahweh with you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Don’t…
2 Chronicles 32:8(v9)An arm of flesh is with him, but Yahweh our God is with us to help us and to fight our battles.” The people rested themselves on the words…
Psalms 22:8(v8)“He trusts in Yahweh. Let him deliver him. Let him rescue him, since he delights in him.”
Deuteronomy 1:25(v7)They took some of the fruit of the land in their hands and brought it down to us, and brought us word again, and said, “It is a good land…
Joshua 1:5(v9)No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not fail you nor…
Zephaniah 3:17(v8)Yahweh, your God, is among you, a mighty one who will save. He will rejoice over you with joy. He will calm you in his love. He will…
Leviticus 9:23(v10)Moses and Aaron went into the Tent of Meeting, and came out, and blessed the people; and Yahweh’s glory appeared to all the people.
Deuteronomy 20:1-4(v9)When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses, chariots, and a people more numerous than you, you shall not be afraid of…
1 Samuel 30:6(v10)David was greatly distressed; for the people spoke of stoning him, because the souls of all the people were grieved, every man for his sons…
Psalms 121:5(v9)Yahweh is your keeper. Yahweh is your shade on your right hand.
Jeremiah 32:41(v8)Yes, I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will plant them in this land assuredly with my whole heart and with my whole soul.”
Exodus 16:10(v10)As Aaron spoke to the whole congregation of the children of Israel, they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, Yahweh’s glory appeared…
Numbers 13:30(v6)Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, “Let’s go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it!”
Numbers 14:30(v6)surely you shall not come into the land concerning which I swore that I would make you dwell therein, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh,…
Deuteronomy 1:26(v9)Yet you wouldn’t go up, but rebelled against the commandment of Yahweh your God.
Deuteronomy 9:7(v9)Remember, and don’t forget, how you provoked Yahweh your God to wrath in the wilderness. From the day that you left the land of Egypt until…
Deuteronomy 9:23-24(v9)When Yahweh sent you from Kadesh Barnea, saying, “Go up and possess the land which I have given you,” you rebelled against the commandment…
Psalms 14:4(v9)Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up my people as they eat bread, and don’t call on Yahweh?
Genesis 37:29(v6)Reuben returned to the pit, and saw that Joseph wasn’t in the pit; and he tore his clothes.
Genesis 37:34(v6)Jacob tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his waist, and mourned for his son many days.
Exodus 16:7(v10)In the morning, you shall see Yahweh’s glory; because he hears your murmurings against Yahweh. Who are we, that you murmur against us?”
Numbers 13:6(v6)Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.
Numbers 13:8(v6)Of the tribe of Ephraim, Hoshea the son of Nun.
Numbers 14:38(v6)But Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh remained alive of those men who went to spy out the land.
Numbers 16:19(v10)Korah assembled all the congregation opposite them to the door of the Tent of Meeting. Yahweh’s glory appeared to all the congregation.
Numbers 16:42(v10)When the congregation was assembled against Moses and against Aaron, they looked toward the Tent of Meeting. Behold, the cloud covered it,…
Numbers 20:6(v10)Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the door of the Tent of Meeting, and fell on their faces. Yahweh’s glory appeared…
Deuteronomy 1:21(v9)Behold, Yahweh your God has set the land before you. Go up, take possession, as Yahweh the God of your fathers has spoken to you. Don’t be…
Deuteronomy 7:21(v9)You shall not be scared of them; for Yahweh your God is among you, a great and awesome God.
Deuteronomy 32:42(v9)I will make my arrows drunk with blood. My sword shall devour flesh with the blood of the slain and the captives, from the head of the…
Isaiah 8:9-10(v9)Make an uproar, you peoples, and be broken in pieces! Listen, all you from far countries: dress for battle, and be shattered! Dress for…
Daniel 9:9(v9)To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgiveness; for we have rebelled against him.
Matthew 23:37(v10)“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets, and stones those who are sent to her! How often I would have gathered your children…
Genesis 44:13(v6)Then they tore their clothes, and each man loaded his donkey, and returned to the city.
Genesis 48:21(v9)Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am dying, but God will be with you, and bring you again to the land of your fathers.
Exodus 3:8(v8)I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and large land, to a…
Exodus 24:16-17(v10)Yahweh’s glory settled on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. The seventh day he called to Moses out of the middle of the…
Exodus 33:16(v9)For how would people know that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Isn’t it that you go with us, so that we are separated,…
Exodus 40:34(v10)Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and Yahweh’s glory filled the tabernacle.
Numbers 14:24(v6)But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and has followed me fully, him I will bring into the land into which he went.…
Deuteronomy 6:10-11(v7)It shall be, when Yahweh your God brings you into the land which he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give you,…
Deuteronomy 8:7-9(v7)For Yahweh your God brings you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of springs, and underground water flowing into valleys and…
Joshua 7:6(v6)Joshua tore his clothes, and fell to the earth on his face before Yahweh’s ark until the evening, he and the elders of Israel; and they put…
Judges 1:22(v9)The house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and Yahweh was with them.
Judges 11:35(v6)When he saw her, he tore his clothes, and said, “Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low, and you are one of those who trouble me;…
2 Samuel 3:31(v6)David said to Joab, and to all the people who were with him, “Tear your clothes, and clothe yourselves with sackcloth, and mourn in front…
2 Samuel 15:25-26(v8)The king said to Zadok, “Carry God’s ark back into the city. If I find favor in Yahweh’s eyes, he will bring me again, and show me both it,…
2 Kings 18:37(v6)Then Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, who was over the household, came with Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder, to…
2 Chronicles 13:12(v9)Behold, God is with us at our head, and his priests with the trumpets of alarm to sound an alarm against you. Children of Israel, don’t…
2 Chronicles 15:2(v9)and he went out to meet Asa, and said to him, “Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin! Yahweh is with you, while you are with him; and if…
Job 1:20(v6)Then Job arose, and tore his robe, and shaved his head, and fell down on the ground, and worshiped.
Psalms 46:1-2(v9)God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, though the…
Psalms 46:7(v9)Yahweh of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge.
Psalms 46:11(v9)Yahweh of Armies is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge.
Psalms 91:1(v9)He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Isaiah 1:2(v9)Hear, heavens, and listen, earth; for Yahweh has spoken: “I have nourished and brought up children and they have rebelled against me.
Isaiah 30:2-3(v9)who set out to go down into Egypt, and have not asked my advice, to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to take refuge in…
Isaiah 32:2(v9)A man shall be as a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the storm, as streams of water in a dry place, as the shade of a large…
Isaiah 41:10(v9)Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will…
Isaiah 41:14(v9)Don’t be afraid, you worm Jacob, and you men of Israel. I will help you,” says Yahweh. “Your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.
Isaiah 63:10(v9)But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit. Therefore he turned and became their enemy, and he himself fought against them.
Jeremiah 48:45(v9)“Those who fled stand without strength under the shadow of Heshbon; for a fire has gone out of Heshbon, and a flame from the middle of…
Joel 2:12-13(v6)“Yet even now,” says Yahweh, “turn to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning.” Tear your heart, and…
Matthew 1:23(v9)“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall give birth to a son. They shall call his name Immanuel;” which is, being interpreted,…
Matthew 26:65(v6)Then the high priest tore his clothing, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Behold, now you have heard his…
Acts 7:52(v10)Which of the prophets didn’t your fathers persecute? They killed those who foretold the coming of the Righteous One, of whom you have now…
Acts 7:59(v10)They stoned Stephen as he called out, saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!”
Philippians 1:27(v9)Only let your way of life be worthy of the Good News of Christ, that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your state,…
81 distinct cross-references across this passage (83 total citations).
Cross-references from openbible.info (CC BY 4.0)
Explain this passage (17 sources)
Historical commentary, presented as a primary source — not an endorsement.
Geneva Bible translators1599 · Public DomainOn vv6, 9, 10For sorrow, hearing their blasphemy.
For sorrow, hearing their blasphemy.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp1656 · Public DomainOn vv6, 9, 10Num 14:6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and…
Num 14:6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
Ver. 6. Rent their clothes.] And wept, saith Sulpitius.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole1685 · Public DomainOn vv6, 8, 9, 10To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy…
To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation and people of God.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
John Gill1763 · Public DomainOn vv6–10And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the…
And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh,.... Rose up and interposed in this affair, looking upon themselves under a special obligation so to do, as they were capable of confronting the other spies, and contradicting what they had said:
which were of them that searched the land; they were two of that number, and were the more concerned to hear such a false account given, and distressed to observe the mutiny of the people, and therefore judged themselves in duty bound to do all they could to stop it:
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rent their clothes; in token of sorrow for the sins of the people; and at their blasphemy and ingratitude against God, and in dread of his wrath and fury breaking forth upon them.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley1765 · Public DomainOn vv6, 8, 9, 10Rent their clothes - To testify their hearty grief…
Rent their clothes - To testify their hearty grief for the peoples blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke1810 · Public DomainOn vv6, 9, 10Verse 6. And Joshua, &c.] See on the preceding…
Verse 6. And Joshua, &c.] See on the preceding chapter, See Clarke on Nu 13:33.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson1811 · Public DomainOn vv6, 8, 10Num 14:6. Rent their clothes — To testify their…
Num 14:6. Rent their clothes — To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation.
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes1834 · Public DomainOn v9Their defense - literally, “their shadow,” i. e. their…
Their defense - literally, “their shadow,” i. e. their shelter as from the scorching sun: an Oriental figure. Compare the marginal references.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary1859 · Public DomainOn vv6, 9, 10Garments, in testimony of their disapprobation and zeal; to…
Garments, in testimony of their disapprobation and zeal; to make these insolent people reflect upon the evils into which they are throwing themselves. (Calmet)
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown1871 · Public DomainOn vv6, 8, 9, 10Joshua . . . and Caleb, which were of…
Joshua . . . and Caleb, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes--The two honest spies testified their grief and horror, in the strongest manner, at the mutiny against Moses and the blasphemy against God; while at the same time they endeavored, by a truthful statement, to persuade the people of the ease with which they might obtain possession of so desirable a country, provided they did not, by their rebellion and ingratitude, provoke God to abandon them.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon1874 · Public DomainOn vv6–10JOSHUA AND CALEB’S MINORITY REPORT, Num_14:6-10.
JOSHUA AND CALEB’S MINORITY REPORT, Num_14:6-10.
The two believing spies, having been rudely interrupted in their report by the cowardly ten, (Num_13:30-31,) now come forward, evincing the deepest emotion, and attempt to continue their narration of their view of the situation. They succeed in uttering a few cheering words, when their voices are drowned in the hoarse clamour of the mob, now excited to a frenzy which imperils the lives of the speakers, “faithful among the faithless found.”
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6. Rent their clothes — The flowing robes of the Orientals admit of various symbolical actions. Rending expresses grief, indignation, despair, or fear. The outer garment only was torn. See Gen_39:12, (Hebrew.)
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges1878 · Public DomainOn vv9–109. they are our bread] i.e. we shall swallow…
9. they are our bread] i.e. we shall swallow them up, annihilate them; cf. Psa_14:4 = Psa_53:4, Num_24:8.
their defence] Lit. ‘shadow’ (as R.V. marg. states); a common metaphor of great significance in a hot country; see Jdg_9:15, Isa_25:4; Isa_32:2, and the name Bezalel (Exo_31:2) which denotes ‘in the shadow of El (God).’ The passage means that the gods in whom the Canaanites trust will be powerless against Jehovah the God of Israel. Cf. Deu_32:31 ‘their rock is not as our Rock.’
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers1878 · Public DomainOn vv6, 9, 10(6) Rent their clothes.—Comp. Lev_10:6 and Note.
(6) Rent their clothes.—Comp. Lev_10:6 and Note.
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary1880 · Public DomainOn vv6, 8, 9, 10And Joshua. In a last hopeless effort to bring…
And Joshua. In a last hopeless effort to bring the people to a better mind, or at least to deliver their own souls, there was no reason why Joshua should hold back any more. Rent their clothes. Another token of grief and hinter practiced from patriarchal times. (cf. Gen_37:29, 34 Job_1:20)
Vers. 6-10. Speaking out: a last appeal.
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Moses is silent from necessity, his power with men in abeyance, and he waiting humbly upon God. Joshua and Caleb, who were not only men of a different spirit, but also very imperfectly acquainted with Moses" peculiar burden, spoke out. As it was well for Moses and Aaron to be silent, it was also well for Caleb and Joshua to speak out. Moses and Aaron were for the time separated, forsaken, and as it were condemned; but Caleb and Joshua are still in the multitude Caleb indeed partly declared, and only waiting further opportunity to speak his mind fully on the subject. Now Joshua and he take their stand without any hesitation or chance of being mistaken. They had something to say which Moses could not say, for they had been through the land. Thus, when God"s servant is compelled to be silent, friends arise to say what is right and just. Consider
I THE MANNER OF THE SPEAKERS. "They rent their clothes." This was the symbol of hearts rent with grief and astonishment because of impending disaster. To the Israelites their only hope appeared in retracing their steps. To Caleb and Joshua this was the summary and utter extinction of a great opportunity. The multitude looked on Canaan as worse than the grave, a scene of vain struggles and harassing privations. Caleb and Joshua looked on the multitude as threatening the unutterable folly of drawing back from certain and inestimable blessings when they lay within their reach. Therefore they accompanied their speech with an action that indicated the distress and laceration of their hearts. Truth may do such things naturally in the very vehemence and consistency of its onset. We do not read that the spies who brought up a slander on the land rent their clothes while they were telling their story. Hypocrisy must always be careful in its histrionics not to overdo the thing.
II THE MATTER OF THEIR SPEECH. They give the testimony of experience. They had passed through the land to search it. Although they were only two against ten who told a different story, yet, strong in the consciousness of sincerity and competency, they declared what they had seen with their eyes, looked upon, and handled. Though their testimony would not have been enough for some purposes, yet it was quite enough to throw as a check in the way of revolted Israel. They emphatically assert the goodness of the land. It was a land to be desired, corresponding to all the promises made and the hopes cherished, worth all the struggling and self-denial that might be needed in order to attain it. They show a devout recognition of Jehovah. This alone might make their word, though only two, outweigh the exaggerations of the other ten. The recognition shows itself in two ways.
1. They avow the necessity of his favour. "If the Lord delight in us;" that means, surely, "If we believe in the Lord." That which delights the Lord is to see men walking by faith, and not by sight, stepping forward into the darkness upon his clear command. Caleb and Joshua felt sure, from what they had seen of the fatness and beauty of Canaan, that God wished to delight in his people, if only they would allow it.
2. They avow the necessity of submission to God. Unbelief is not only separation, it is rebellion. This was the real danger of Israel rebellion against God"s appointments and restrictions. By their present conduct they were strengthening the nations of Canaan with more than all their walled cities, giants, and strong men could give them. They show that the Canaanites are really very weak. There is nothing more fallacious than outside show and casual inspection. The spies had brought some fruit, and doubtless tasted much more; but how could they report adequately on defenses which they could not examine in any accurate way? They did not know how all these people were undermined and enervated by their wickedness. The very wealth of the hind became a curse and corrupting influence to the idolaters who dwelt in it. Wicked nations in the midst of all their boasting and revelry are preparing their own destruction.
III THE RESULTS OF THEIR SPEECH.
1. The exasperation, of the people reaches its highest pitch. "All the congregation bade stone them with stones, This was the punishment which God had appointed for serious transgressions. (Lev_20:2, 27 24:14 Num_15:35 Deu_13:10, &c.); And now the people adopt it, numbering Caleb and Joshua with transgressors against their sovereign will. If we speak the truth, all of it, and at the time when it should be spoken, we must be ready for the consequences. The two faithful witnesses would certainly have been stoned, as Zechariah long after, (2Ch_24:21) but
2. God himself interfered. "The glory of the Lord appeared," &c. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the rebels were reduced to impotence. One can imagine the uplifted stone dropped, as if it had turned to a blazing coal. Israel may still be sullen and rebellious in ;heart, but its hand is in the power of God. He can rescue his servants from the power of their enemies, if that be most expedient. Caleb and Joshua still had much work to do. Or, as happened to Stephen, he can turn the unchecked fury of men into the agent, of, a quick, and glorious dismission from the toils and perils of earthly service. In God s house the more manifest the faithfulness of the servant, the more manifest also the faithfulness of the Master. Y.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator1887 · Public DomainOn v6The Lord is with us: fear them not.
Num_14:6-9
The Lord is with us: fear them not.
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A noble effort to arrest a nations rebellion
I. Joshua and Caleb were deeply grieved by reason of the rebellion of the nation.
II. Joshua and Caleb nobly endeavoured to arrest the rebellion of the nation.
1. They reassert the excellence of the land.
2. They declare the attainableness of the land.
3. They exhort the people not to violate the conditions of its attainment.
(1) By rebelling against the Lord.
(2) By dreading the people of the land.
III. Joshua and Caleb were in danger by reason of their effort to arrest the rebellion of the nation. All the congregation bade stone them with stones. See here--
1. The tactics of an excited mob when defeated in argument.
2. The folly of an excited mob. This proposal to stone Joshua and Caleb was insane.
(1) Stoning would not disprove the testimony, or take away the wisdom from the counsel of the two brave explorers.
(2) Stoning would involve the nation in deeper guilt and disgrace.
3. The perils of faithfulness.
IV. Joshua and Caleb rescued from danger by the interposition of God. (W. Jones.)
An encouraging declaration
I. A supposition. If the Lord delight in us (Pro_8:30). God delights in His Son, &c. He delights in His holy angels, &c. But have we reason to suppose that He delights in His saints?
1. We might conclude, indeed, that He could not delight in them, when we reflect--
(1) On their nothingness and vanity. Man at His best estate, &c.
(2) On their guilt and rebellion. Not one but is a sinner.
(3) On their pollution and want of conformity to His likeness.
(4) And more especially when we reflect on His greatness, independence and purity.
2. But there are the most satisfactory evidences that He does delight in His people.
(1) Observe the names by which He distinguishes them. His jewels--inheritance--treasure--diadem--crown and portion. See the very term in the text. And Pro_11:20.
(2) Observe the declarations He has made respecting them. He that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of Mine eye.
(3) Observe what He has done for them. Favoured--sustained--redeemed them--given His Son--Spirit--promises.
(4) What He has provided for them. The Lord God is a sun, &c. My God shall supply, &c. Eye hath not seen, &c.
(5) Eternal life and unceasing glory.
II. An inference. Then He will bring us into this land, &c. Observe here--
1. The land specified. It is the land afar off. The good land. The heavenly Canaan. Tile region of immortality.
2. This land is Gods gift. Not the result of merit. It is given in promise--given in Christ.
3. To this land God must bring His saints. Difficulties, enemies, and dangers intervene. He will guide to it. Keep--safely conduct, and at length put people into it, as He did Israel. Fear not, little flock, &c. Let not your hearts be troubled, &c. (Rev_2:10; Rev_2:26; Rev_3:5; Rev_3:12). (J. Burns, D. D.)
The boldness and fidelity of Joshua and Caleb
I. How sound was their reasoning!
1. They drew a strong argument from the assurance that the Lord was with them, bat that the defence of the Canaanites had departed from them. They spoke of the country itself as worthy of the contest.
2. They reminded the people of the danger of disobedience, as appeared from their past history; and from the character of God. Sin was the only giant that they had reason to fear. Happy would it have been for the people, had they listened to these arguments.
II. How resolute was their spirit! Personally, no doubt, it would have been much more pleasant to remain in the tent; but viewing this as an opportunity of doing good, and glorifying God, they encountered the shame of uttering sentiments which were reprobated; and the danger of advising measures which were disliked. Thus numbers in the present day say, Religion is all very well in its place; but they have no idea of glorifying God, and endeavouring to save souls, by acting with the decision that Caleb and Joshua did. We, too, may mourn over sin, but we must do something more; we must use all our influence to put it down, and to lead forward the Israel of God.
III. How undivided was their aim! Their one desire was to get the land; and therefore if popular opinion coincided with them, well; but if not, they would not be guided by it. They could do without riches, or honour, or life itself; but they could not do without Canaan. (George Breay, B. A.)
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0On vv6, 9Nun ... Jephunneh
Nun ... Jephunneh
These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)
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who were some of those sent
This can be stated in active form. AT: "who were some of those whom Moses sent" (See: Active or Passive)
tore their clothes
Tearing one's clothes was a gesture indicating the person is very troubled and is mourning. (See: Symbolic Action)
The land flows with milk and honey
They spoke of the land being good for animals and plants as if the milk and honey from those animals and plants flowed through it. See how you translated this in Numbers 13:27. AT: "It is excellent for raising livestock and growing crops" or "It is very fertile land" (See: Metaphor)
Geneva Bible translators 1599 · Public Domain On vv6, 9, 10 For sorrow, hearing their blasphemy.
For sorrow, hearing their blasphemy.
Geneva Bible (1599) marginal notes — public domain.
John Trapp 1656 · Public Domain On vv6, 9, 10 Num 14:6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and…
Num 14:6 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
Ver. 6. Rent their clothes.] And wept, saith Sulpitius.
John Trapp, A Commentary or Exposition upon All the Books of the Old and New Testament (1647–1656) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Matthew Poole 1685 · Public Domain On vv6, 8, 9, 10 To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy…
To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation and people of God.
Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible (1683–1685) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
John Gill 1763 · Public Domain On vv6–10 And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the…
And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh,.... Rose up and interposed in this affair, looking upon themselves under a special obligation so to do, as they were capable of confronting the other spies, and contradicting what they had said:
which were of them that searched the land; they were two of that number, and were the more concerned to hear such a false account given, and distressed to observe the mutiny of the people, and therefore judged themselves in duty bound to do all they could to stop it:
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rent their clothes; in token of sorrow for the sins of the people; and at their blasphemy and ingratitude against God, and in dread of his wrath and fury breaking forth upon them.
John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible (1746–1763) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
John Wesley 1765 · Public Domain On vv6, 8, 9, 10 Rent their clothes - To testify their hearty grief…
Rent their clothes - To testify their hearty grief for the peoples blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes Upon the Whole Bible (1754–1765) — public domain. Text via the GEBible commentary corpus.
Adam Clarke 1810 · Public Domain On vv6, 9, 10 Verse 6. And Joshua, &c.] See on the preceding…
Verse 6. And Joshua, &c.] See on the preceding chapter, See Clarke on Nu 13:33.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible (1810–1826) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Joseph Benson 1811 · Public Domain On vv6, 8, 10 Num 14:6. Rent their clothes — To testify their…
Num 14:6. Rent their clothes — To testify their hearty grief for the people’s blasphemy against God and sedition against Moses, and that dreadful judgment which they easily foresaw this must bring upon the congregation.
Joseph Benson's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1811–1818) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Albert Barnes 1834 · Public Domain On v9 Their defense - literally, “their shadow,” i. e. their…
Their defense - literally, “their shadow,” i. e. their shelter as from the scorching sun: an Oriental figure. Compare the marginal references.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible (1834–1885) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword/MySword module.
Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary 1859 · Public Domain On vv6, 9, 10 Garments, in testimony of their disapprobation and zeal; to…
Garments, in testimony of their disapprobation and zeal; to make these insolent people reflect upon the evils into which they are throwing themselves. (Calmet)
George Leo Haydock (1774–1849), Haydock's Catholic Family Bible and Commentary, 1859 edition — public domain. Excludes Psalms (Douay-Rheims chapter numbering differs from Protestant) and Deuterocanonical books (Catholic canon only).
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown 1871 · Public Domain On vv6, 8, 9, 10 Joshua . . . and Caleb, which were of…
Joshua . . . and Caleb, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes--The two honest spies testified their grief and horror, in the strongest manner, at the mutiny against Moses and the blasphemy against God; while at the same time they endeavored, by a truthful statement, to persuade the people of the ease with which they might obtain possession of so desirable a country, provided they did not, by their rebellion and ingratitude, provoke God to abandon them.
Jamieson, Fausset & Brown — Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible (1871) — public domain (CC PDM 1.0). Text via the HelloAO Bible API.
Daniel D. Whedon 1874 · Public Domain On vv6–10 JOSHUA AND CALEB’S MINORITY REPORT, Num_14:6-10.
JOSHUA AND CALEB’S MINORITY REPORT, Num_14:6-10.
The two believing spies, having been rudely interrupted in their report by the cowardly ten, (Num_13:30-31,) now come forward, evincing the deepest emotion, and attempt to continue their narration of their view of the situation. They succeed in uttering a few cheering words, when their voices are drowned in the hoarse clamour of the mob, now excited to a frenzy which imperils the lives of the speakers, “faithful among the faithless found.”
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6. Rent their clothes — The flowing robes of the Orientals admit of various symbolical actions. Rending expresses grief, indignation, despair, or fear. The outer garment only was torn. See Gen_39:12, (Hebrew.)
Daniel D. Whedon (gen. ed.), Commentary on the Old and New Testaments (1874–1909) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges 1878 · Public Domain On vv9–10 9. they are our bread] i.e. we shall swallow…
9. they are our bread] i.e. we shall swallow them up, annihilate them; cf. Psa_14:4 = Psa_53:4, Num_24:8.
their defence] Lit. ‘shadow’ (as R.V. marg. states); a common metaphor of great significance in a hot country; see Jdg_9:15, Isa_25:4; Isa_32:2, and the name Bezalel (Exo_31:2) which denotes ‘in the shadow of El (God).’ The passage means that the gods in whom the Canaanites trust will be powerless against Jehovah the God of Israel. Cf. Deu_32:31 ‘their rock is not as our Rock.’
The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges (gen. ed. J. J. S. Perowne; Cambridge University Press, 1878–1918) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers 1878 · Public Domain On vv6, 9, 10 (6) Rent their clothes.—Comp. Lev_10:6 and Note.
(6) Rent their clothes.—Comp. Lev_10:6 and Note.
A Bible Commentary for English Readers, edited by Charles John Ellicott (1878–1897) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Pulpit Commentary 1880 · Public Domain On vv6, 8, 9, 10 And Joshua. In a last hopeless effort to bring…
And Joshua. In a last hopeless effort to bring the people to a better mind, or at least to deliver their own souls, there was no reason why Joshua should hold back any more. Rent their clothes. Another token of grief and hinter practiced from patriarchal times. (cf. Gen_37:29, 34 Job_1:20)
Vers. 6-10. Speaking out: a last appeal.
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Moses is silent from necessity, his power with men in abeyance, and he waiting humbly upon God. Joshua and Caleb, who were not only men of a different spirit, but also very imperfectly acquainted with Moses" peculiar burden, spoke out. As it was well for Moses and Aaron to be silent, it was also well for Caleb and Joshua to speak out. Moses and Aaron were for the time separated, forsaken, and as it were condemned; but Caleb and Joshua are still in the multitude Caleb indeed partly declared, and only waiting further opportunity to speak his mind fully on the subject. Now Joshua and he take their stand without any hesitation or chance of being mistaken. They had something to say which Moses could not say, for they had been through the land. Thus, when God"s servant is compelled to be silent, friends arise to say what is right and just. Consider
I THE MANNER OF THE SPEAKERS. "They rent their clothes." This was the symbol of hearts rent with grief and astonishment because of impending disaster. To the Israelites their only hope appeared in retracing their steps. To Caleb and Joshua this was the summary and utter extinction of a great opportunity. The multitude looked on Canaan as worse than the grave, a scene of vain struggles and harassing privations. Caleb and Joshua looked on the multitude as threatening the unutterable folly of drawing back from certain and inestimable blessings when they lay within their reach. Therefore they accompanied their speech with an action that indicated the distress and laceration of their hearts. Truth may do such things naturally in the very vehemence and consistency of its onset. We do not read that the spies who brought up a slander on the land rent their clothes while they were telling their story. Hypocrisy must always be careful in its histrionics not to overdo the thing.
II THE MATTER OF THEIR SPEECH. They give the testimony of experience. They had passed through the land to search it. Although they were only two against ten who told a different story, yet, strong in the consciousness of sincerity and competency, they declared what they had seen with their eyes, looked upon, and handled. Though their testimony would not have been enough for some purposes, yet it was quite enough to throw as a check in the way of revolted Israel. They emphatically assert the goodness of the land. It was a land to be desired, corresponding to all the promises made and the hopes cherished, worth all the struggling and self-denial that might be needed in order to attain it. They show a devout recognition of Jehovah. This alone might make their word, though only two, outweigh the exaggerations of the other ten. The recognition shows itself in two ways.
1. They avow the necessity of his favour. "If the Lord delight in us;" that means, surely, "If we believe in the Lord." That which delights the Lord is to see men walking by faith, and not by sight, stepping forward into the darkness upon his clear command. Caleb and Joshua felt sure, from what they had seen of the fatness and beauty of Canaan, that God wished to delight in his people, if only they would allow it.
2. They avow the necessity of submission to God. Unbelief is not only separation, it is rebellion. This was the real danger of Israel rebellion against God"s appointments and restrictions. By their present conduct they were strengthening the nations of Canaan with more than all their walled cities, giants, and strong men could give them. They show that the Canaanites are really very weak. There is nothing more fallacious than outside show and casual inspection. The spies had brought some fruit, and doubtless tasted much more; but how could they report adequately on defenses which they could not examine in any accurate way? They did not know how all these people were undermined and enervated by their wickedness. The very wealth of the hind became a curse and corrupting influence to the idolaters who dwelt in it. Wicked nations in the midst of all their boasting and revelry are preparing their own destruction.
III THE RESULTS OF THEIR SPEECH.
1. The exasperation, of the people reaches its highest pitch. "All the congregation bade stone them with stones, This was the punishment which God had appointed for serious transgressions. (Lev_20:2, 27 24:14 Num_15:35 Deu_13:10, &c.); And now the people adopt it, numbering Caleb and Joshua with transgressors against their sovereign will. If we speak the truth, all of it, and at the time when it should be spoken, we must be ready for the consequences. The two faithful witnesses would certainly have been stoned, as Zechariah long after, (2Ch_24:21) but
2. God himself interfered. "The glory of the Lord appeared," &c. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the rebels were reduced to impotence. One can imagine the uplifted stone dropped, as if it had turned to a blazing coal. Israel may still be sullen and rebellious in ;heart, but its hand is in the power of God. He can rescue his servants from the power of their enemies, if that be most expedient. Caleb and Joshua still had much work to do. Or, as happened to Stephen, he can turn the unchecked fury of men into the agent, of, a quick, and glorious dismission from the toils and perils of earthly service. In God s house the more manifest the faithfulness of the servant, the more manifest also the faithfulness of the Master. Y.
The Pulpit Commentary (1880–1919), ed. H.D.M. Spence-Jones & Joseph S. Exell — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
The Biblical Illustrator 1887 · Public Domain On v6 The Lord is with us: fear them not.
Num_14:6-9
The Lord is with us: fear them not.
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A noble effort to arrest a nations rebellion
I. Joshua and Caleb were deeply grieved by reason of the rebellion of the nation.
II. Joshua and Caleb nobly endeavoured to arrest the rebellion of the nation.
1. They reassert the excellence of the land.
2. They declare the attainableness of the land.
3. They exhort the people not to violate the conditions of its attainment.
(1) By rebelling against the Lord.
(2) By dreading the people of the land.
III. Joshua and Caleb were in danger by reason of their effort to arrest the rebellion of the nation. All the congregation bade stone them with stones. See here--
1. The tactics of an excited mob when defeated in argument.
2. The folly of an excited mob. This proposal to stone Joshua and Caleb was insane.
(1) Stoning would not disprove the testimony, or take away the wisdom from the counsel of the two brave explorers.
(2) Stoning would involve the nation in deeper guilt and disgrace.
3. The perils of faithfulness.
IV. Joshua and Caleb rescued from danger by the interposition of God. (W. Jones.)
An encouraging declaration
I. A supposition. If the Lord delight in us (Pro_8:30). God delights in His Son, &c. He delights in His holy angels, &c. But have we reason to suppose that He delights in His saints?
1. We might conclude, indeed, that He could not delight in them, when we reflect--
(1) On their nothingness and vanity. Man at His best estate, &c.
(2) On their guilt and rebellion. Not one but is a sinner.
(3) On their pollution and want of conformity to His likeness.
(4) And more especially when we reflect on His greatness, independence and purity.
2. But there are the most satisfactory evidences that He does delight in His people.
(1) Observe the names by which He distinguishes them. His jewels--inheritance--treasure--diadem--crown and portion. See the very term in the text. And Pro_11:20.
(2) Observe the declarations He has made respecting them. He that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of Mine eye.
(3) Observe what He has done for them. Favoured--sustained--redeemed them--given His Son--Spirit--promises.
(4) What He has provided for them. The Lord God is a sun, &c. My God shall supply, &c. Eye hath not seen, &c.
(5) Eternal life and unceasing glory.
II. An inference. Then He will bring us into this land, &c. Observe here--
1. The land specified. It is the land afar off. The good land. The heavenly Canaan. Tile region of immortality.
2. This land is Gods gift. Not the result of merit. It is given in promise--given in Christ.
3. To this land God must bring His saints. Difficulties, enemies, and dangers intervene. He will guide to it. Keep--safely conduct, and at length put people into it, as He did Israel. Fear not, little flock, &c. Let not your hearts be troubled, &c. (Rev_2:10; Rev_2:26; Rev_3:5; Rev_3:12). (J. Burns, D. D.)
The boldness and fidelity of Joshua and Caleb
I. How sound was their reasoning!
1. They drew a strong argument from the assurance that the Lord was with them, bat that the defence of the Canaanites had departed from them. They spoke of the country itself as worthy of the contest.
2. They reminded the people of the danger of disobedience, as appeared from their past history; and from the character of God. Sin was the only giant that they had reason to fear. Happy would it have been for the people, had they listened to these arguments.
II. How resolute was their spirit! Personally, no doubt, it would have been much more pleasant to remain in the tent; but viewing this as an opportunity of doing good, and glorifying God, they encountered the shame of uttering sentiments which were reprobated; and the danger of advising measures which were disliked. Thus numbers in the present day say, Religion is all very well in its place; but they have no idea of glorifying God, and endeavouring to save souls, by acting with the decision that Caleb and Joshua did. We, too, may mourn over sin, but we must do something more; we must use all our influence to put it down, and to lead forward the Israel of God.
III. How undivided was their aim! Their one desire was to get the land; and therefore if popular opinion coincided with them, well; but if not, they would not be guided by it. They could do without riches, or honour, or life itself; but they could not do without Canaan. (George Breay, B. A.)
The Biblical Illustrator, edited by Joseph S. Exell (c. 1880s–1900s) — public domain. Text from a community e-Sword module.
unfoldingWord translationNotes 2017 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv6, 9 Nun ... Jephunneh
Nun ... Jephunneh
These are names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)
Read full note →
who were some of those sent
This can be stated in active form. AT: "who were some of those whom Moses sent" (See: Active or Passive)
tore their clothes
Tearing one's clothes was a gesture indicating the person is very troubled and is mourning. (See: Symbolic Action)
The land flows with milk and honey
They spoke of the land being good for animals and plants as if the milk and honey from those animals and plants flowed through it. See how you translated this in Numbers 13:27. AT: "It is excellent for raising livestock and growing crops" or "It is very fertile land" (See: Metaphor)
translationWords
Joshua
Caleb
send
unfoldingWord translationNotes — © Distant Shores Media and the Door43 World Missions Community, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: git.door43.org/Door43/en_tn.
Tyndale Open Study Notes 2022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 On vv6, 7, 10 14:6 Joshua and Caleb joined in the effort to…
14:6 Joshua and Caleb joined in the effort to reverse the rebellion and avert God’s wrath; they tore their clothing in a gesture of grief.
Tyndale Open Study Notes — © Tyndale Open Resources, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Text via the HelloAO Bible API.