Overview
Numbers records the journey of Israel from Mount Sinai through some forty years in the wilderness to the plains of Moab east of the Jordan. Structured around two censuses, it contrasts the Exodus generation, which did not enter the promised land because of unbelief, with the new generation that stands at its threshold. Amid the repeated rebellion of the people, the covenant faithfulness of God is made evident.
Theme Testing and disobedience in the wilderness, and the faithfulness of God who keeps His promise
Historical background
The geographical setting of Numbers comprises the Sinai Peninsula, the southern Negev around Kadesh-barnea, the regions of Edom and Moab, and the land east of the Jordan. The victories over Sihon and Og are repeatedly recalled in later historical writings and in the Psalms. An inscription discovered at Deir Alla east of the Jordan (c. 8th century BC) mentions Balaam son of Beor and has drawn considerable scholarly attention.