“Exact vengeance for the Israelites from the Midianites– after that you will be gathered to your people.”
3
So Moses spoke to the people:“Arm men from among you for the war, to attack the Midianites and to execute the LORD’s vengeance on Midian.
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You must send to the battle a thousand men from every tribe throughout all the tribes of Israel.”
Numbers 31:1 — Frequently Asked Questions
7 questions
What does Numbers 31:1 say?
Numbers 31:1 in the NET Bible reads: “The Midianite War The LORD spoke to Moses:”
Where is Numbers 31:1 in the Bible?
Numbers 31:1 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Numbers, chapter 31, verse 1.
Who wrote Numbers?
Numbers is traditionally attributed to Moses (traditional). It was written c. 1446–1406 BC.
What is the book of Numbers about?
Numbers records Israel's forty years of wilderness wandering — two censuses (hence the name), rebellions, the failure at Kadesh-Barnea, and the slow journey to the plains of Moab. It is a sober portrait of human unbelief and God's patient faithfulness across a generation.
What are the major themes of Numbers?
Numbers explores themes including Wilderness, Faithfulness, Rebellion, Guidance, Provision. These themes shape the meaning and context of Numbers 31:1.
What translation should I read Numbers 31:1 in?
Numbers 31:1 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Numbers 31:1?
Numbers 31:1 reads (NET): “The Midianite War The LORD spoke to Moses:” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.