CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Numbers 20:17 Please let us pass through your land. We will not cut through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King's Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/numbers/20-17.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/10/04_Num_20_17.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Numbers 20:17 - Edom Refuses Passage" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Please let us pass through your land. We will not cut through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King's Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/numbers/20-17.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/numbers/20-17.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/numbers/">Numbers</a> > <a href="/numbers/20.htm">Chapter 20</a> > Verse 17</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad17.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/numbers/20-16.htm" title="Numbers 20:16">◄</a> Numbers 20:17 <a href="/numbers/20-18.htm" title="Numbers 20:18">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/numbers/20.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/numbers/20.htm">New International Version</a> Please let us pass through your country. We will not go through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will travel along the King&#8217s Highway and not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/numbers/20.htm">New Living Translation</a> Please let us travel through your land. We will be careful not to go through your fields and vineyards. We won’t even drink water from your wells. We will stay on the king’s road and never leave it until we have passed through your territory.” <a href="/esv/numbers/20.htm">English Standard Version</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or vineyard, or drink water from a well. We will go along the King’s Highway. We will not turn aside to the right hand or to the left until we have passed through your territory.” <a href="/bsb/numbers/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not go through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King’s Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory.” <a href="/kjv/numbers/20.htm">King James Bible</a> Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go by the king's high way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders. <a href="/nkjv/numbers/20.htm">New King James Version</a> Please let us pass through your country. We will not pass through fields or vineyards, nor will we drink water from wells; we will go along the King’s Highway; we will not turn aside to the right hand or to the left until we have passed through your territory.’ ” <a href="/nasb_/numbers/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or vineyard; we will not even drink water from a well. We will go along the king’s road, not turning to the right or left, until we pass through your territory.’” <a href="/nasb/numbers/20.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8216Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or through vineyard; we will not even drink water from a well. We will go along the king&#8217s highway, not turning to the right or left, until we pass through your territory.&#8217&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/numbers/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a> ‘Please let us pass through your land. We shall not pass through field or through vineyard; we shall not even drink water from a well. We shall go along the king’s highway, not turning to the right or left, until we pass through your territory.’” <a href="/lsb/numbers/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or through vineyard; we will not even drink water from a well. We will go along the king’s highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we pass through your territory.’” <a href="/amp/numbers/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through a field or through a vineyard; we will not even drink water from a well. We will go along the king’s highway, not turning [off-course] to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory.’” <a href="/csb/numbers/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Please let us travel through your land. We won’t travel through any field or vineyard, or drink any well water. We will travel the King’s Highway; we won’t turn to the right or the left until we have traveled through your territory.’ ” <a href="/hcsb/numbers/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Please let us travel through your land. We won&#8217t travel through any field or vineyard, or drink any well water. We will travel the King&#8217s Highway; we won&#8217t turn to the right or the left until we have traveled through your territory.&#8217&#8221 <a href="/asv/numbers/20.htm">American Standard Version</a> Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy land: we will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go along the king's highway; we will not turn aside to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy border. <a href="/cev/numbers/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Please let us go through your country. We won't go near your fields or vineyards, and we won't drink any water from your wells. We will stay on the main road until we leave your territory. <a href="/erv/numbers/20.htm">English Revised Version</a> let us pass, I pray thee, through thy land: we will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go along the king's high way, we will not turn aside to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy border. <a href="/gwt/numbers/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Please let us go through your country. We won't go through any of your fields or vineyards, or drink any of the water from your wells. We'll stay on the king's highway and never leave it until we've passed through your territory." <a href="/gnt/numbers/20.htm">Good News Translation</a> Please permit us to pass through your land. We and our cattle will not leave the road or go into your fields or vineyards, and we will not drink from your wells. We will stay on the main road until we are out of your territory." <a href="/isv/numbers/20.htm">International Standard Version</a> Permit us now to pass through your land. We won't pass through your fields or vineyards, and we won't drink water from your wells. We'll keep to the King's Highway without turning either right or left until we have passed through your territory.'" <a href="/msb/numbers/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not go through any field or vineyard, or drink water from any well. We will stay on the King?s Highway; we will not turn to the right or to the left until we have passed through your territory.? <a href="/net/numbers/20.htm">NET Bible</a> Please let us pass through your country. We will not pass through the fields or through the vineyards, nor will we drink water from any well. We will go by the King's Highway; we will not turn to the right or the left until we have passed through your region.'" <a href="/nheb/numbers/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> "Please let us pass through your land: we will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go along the king's highway; we will not turn aside to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your border." <a href="/wbt/numbers/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go by the king's high-way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders. <a href="/web/numbers/20.htm">World English Bible</a> “Please let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink from the water of the wells. We will go along the king’s highway. We will not turn away to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your border.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/numbers/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Please let us pass over through your land; we do not pass over through a field or through a vineyard, nor do we drink waters of a well; we go the way of the king, we do not turn aside [to] the right or left until we pass over your border.” <a href="/ylt/numbers/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Let us pass over, we pray thee, through thy land; we pass not over through a field, or through a vineyard, nor do we drink waters of a well; the way of the king we go, we turn not aside -- right or left -- till that we pass over thy border.' <a href="/slt/numbers/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Now we will pass over in thy land: we will not pass through in the field and in the vineyard, and we will not drink the water of the well: the way of the king we will go; we will not incline to the right or to the left till we shall pass over thy boundary.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/numbers/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And we beseech thee that we may have leave to pass through thy country. We will not go through the fields, nor through the vineyards, we will not drink the waters of thy wells, but we will go by the common highway, neither turning aside to the right hand, nor to the left, till we are past thy borders. <a href="/cpdv/numbers/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And we beg you to permit us to cross through your land. We will not go through the fields, nor through the vineyards; we will not drink the waters of your wells, but we will travel by the public ways, neither turning aside to the right, nor to the left, until we have passed your borders.” <a href="/nabre/numbers/20.htm">New American Bible</a> Please let us pass through your land. We will not cross any fields or vineyards, nor drink any well water, but we will go straight along the King’s Highway without turning to the right or to the left, until we have passed through your territory.” <a href="/nrsvce/numbers/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Now let us pass through your land. We will not pass through field or vineyard, or drink water from any well; we will go along the King’s Highway, not turning aside to the right hand or to the left until we have passed through your territory.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/numbers/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Now let us pass through your land; we will not pass through the fields, nor through the vineyards, neither will we drink the water of the wells; but we will go by the king's highway, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left until we have passed your borders. <a href="/hpbt/numbers/20.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Now we will pass through your land; we will not pass in a field or in a vineyard and we will not drink water of the wells, but let us go in the road of the King and we will not turn aside, not to the right neither to the left, until we pass by your border.’”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/numbers/20.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy land; we will not pass through field or through vineyard, neither will we drink of the water of the wells; we will go along the king's highway, we will not turn aside to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy border.' <a href="/sep/numbers/20.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> We will pass through thy land: we will not go through the fields, nor through the vineyards, nor will we drink water out of thy cistern: we will go by the king's highway; we will not turn aside to the right hand or to the left, until we have passed thy borders. <a href="/parallel/numbers/20-17.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yauBFvKLNNo?start=6376" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/numbers/20.htm">Edom Refuses Passage</a> …16and when we cried out to the LORD, He heard our voice, sent an angel, and brought us out of Egypt. Now look, we are in Kadesh, a city on the edge of your territory. 17<a href="/hebrew/4994.htm" title="4994: nā (Interjection) -- I (we) pray, now. ">Please</a> <a href="/hebrew/5674.htm" title="5674: na‘·bə·rāh- (V-Qal-Imperf.Cohort-1cp) -- To pass over, through, or by, pass on. A primitive root; to cross over; used very widely of any transition; specifically, to cover.">let us pass</a> <a href="/hebrew/776.htm" title="776: ḇə·’ar·ṣe·ḵā (Prep-b:: N-fsc:: 2ms) -- Earth, land. From an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth.">through your land.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">We will not</a> <a href="/hebrew/5674.htm" title="5674: na·‘ă·ḇōr (V-Qal-Imperf-1cp) -- To pass over, through, or by, pass on. A primitive root; to cross over; used very widely of any transition; specifically, to cover.">cut</a> <a href="/hebrew/7704.htm" title="7704: bə·śā·ḏeh (Prep-b:: N-ms) -- Field, land. Or saday; from an unused root meaning to spread out; a field.">through any field</a> <a href="/hebrew/3754.htm" title="3754: ū·ḇə·ḵe·rem (Conj-w, Prep:: N-ms) -- A vineyard. From an unused root of uncertain meaning; a garden or vineyard.">or vineyard,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">or</a> <a href="/hebrew/8354.htm" title="8354: niš·teh (V-Qal-Imperf-1cp) -- To drink. A primitive root; to imbibe.">drink</a> <a href="/hebrew/4325.htm" title="4325: mê (N-mpc) -- Waters, water. Dual of a primitive noun; water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen.">water</a> <a href="/hebrew/875.htm" title="875: ḇə·’êr (N-fs) -- A well, pit. From ba'ar; a pit; especially a well.">from any well.</a> <a href="/hebrew/1980.htm" title="1980: nê·lêḵ (V-Qal-Imperf-1cp) -- To go, come, walk. Akin to yalak; a primitive root; to walk.">We will stay on</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: ham·me·leḵ (Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king.">the King’s</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: de·reḵ (N-csc) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">Highway;</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">we will not</a> <a href="/hebrew/5186.htm" title="5186: niṭ·ṭeh (V-Qal-Imperf-1cp) -- A primitive root; to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away; used in a great variety of application.">turn</a> <a href="/hebrew/3225.htm" title="3225: yā·mîn (N-fs) -- Right hand. From yaman; the right hand or side of a person or other object; locally, the south.">to the right</a> <a href="/hebrew/8040.htm" title="8040: ū·śə·mō·wl (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- The left. ">or to the left</a> <a href="/hebrew/5704.htm" title="5704: ‘aḏ (Prep) -- As far as, even to, up to, until, while. Properly, the same as ad; as far as, whether of space or time or degree.">until</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer- (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5674.htm" title="5674: na·‘ă·ḇōr (V-Qal-Imperf-1cp) -- To pass over, through, or by, pass on. A primitive root; to cross over; used very widely of any transition; specifically, to cover.">we have passed through</a> <a href="/hebrew/1366.htm" title="1366: gə·ḇū·le·ḵā (N-msc:: 2ms) -- Border, boundary, territory. Or gbul; from gabal; properly, a cord, i.e. a boundary; by extens. The territory inclosed.">your territory.”</a> 18But Edom answered, “You may not travel through our land, or we will come out and confront you with the sword.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/deuteronomy/2-4.htm">Deuteronomy 2:4-6</a> and command the people: ‘You will pass through the territory of your brothers, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. They will be afraid of you, so you must be very careful. / Do not provoke them, for I will not give you any of their land, not even a footprint, because I have given Mount Seir to Esau as his possession. / You are to pay them in silver for the food you eat and the water you drink.’” <a href="/deuteronomy/2-27.htm">Deuteronomy 2:27-29</a> “Let us pass through your land; we will stay on the main road. We will not turn to the right or to the left. / You can sell us food to eat and water to drink in exchange for silver. Only let us pass through on foot, / just as the descendants of Esau who live in Seir and the Moabites who live in Ar did for us, until we cross the Jordan into the land that the LORD our God is giving us.” <a href="/judges/11-17.htm">Judges 11:17-18</a> Then Israel sent messengers to the king of Edom, saying, ‘Please let us pass through your land,’ but the king of Edom would not listen. They also sent messengers to the king of Moab, but he would not consent. So Israel stayed in Kadesh. / Then Israel traveled through the wilderness and bypassed the lands of Edom and Moab. They came to the east side of the land of Moab and camped on the other side of the Arnon. But they did not enter the territory of Moab, since the Arnon was its border. <a href="/deuteronomy/23-3.htm">Deuteronomy 23:3-4</a> No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the LORD, even to the tenth generation. / For they did not meet you with food and water on your way out of Egypt, and they hired Balaam son of Beor from Pethor in Aram-naharaim to curse you. <a href="/exodus/13-21.htm">Exodus 13:21-22</a> And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day, and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night. / Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people. <a href="/exodus/15-22.htm">Exodus 15:22</a> Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the Desert of Shur. For three days they walked in the desert without finding water. <a href="/exodus/23-31.htm">Exodus 23:31</a> And I will establish your borders from the Red Sea to the Sea of the Philistines, and from the desert to the Euphrates. For I will deliver the inhabitants into your hand, and you will drive them out before you. <a href="/isaiah/63-12.htm">Isaiah 63:12-14</a> who sent His glorious arm to lead them by the right hand of Moses, who divided the waters before them to gain for Himself everlasting renown, / who led them through the depths like a horse in the wilderness, so that they did not stumble? / Like cattle going down to the valley, the Spirit of the LORD gave them rest. You led Your people this way to make for Yourself a glorious name. <a href="/psalms/78-52.htm">Psalm 78:52-53</a> He led out His people like sheep and guided them like a flock in the wilderness. / He led them safely, so they did not fear, but the sea engulfed their enemies. <a href="/psalms/136-16.htm">Psalm 136:16</a> He led His people through the wilderness. His loving devotion endures forever. <a href="/amos/2-9.htm">Amos 2:9</a> Yet it was I who destroyed the Amorite before them, though his height was like that of the cedars, and he was as strong as the oaks. Yet I destroyed his fruit above and his roots below. <a href="/matthew/10-14.htm">Matthew 10:14</a> And if anyone will not welcome you or heed your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town. <a href="/luke/9-5.htm">Luke 9:5</a> If anyone does not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that town, as a testimony against them.” <a href="/matthew/10-11.htm">Matthew 10:11-14</a> Whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy there and stay at his house until you move on. / As you enter the home, greet its occupants. / If the home is worthy, let your peace rest on it, but if it is not, let your peace return to you. ... <a href="/luke/10-10.htm">Luke 10:10-11</a> But if you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go into the streets and declare, / ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off as a testimony against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.’</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Let us pass, I pray you, through your country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go by the king's high way, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed your borders.<a href="/numbers/21-1.htm">Numbers 21:1,22-24</a> And when king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south, heard tell that Israel came by the way of the spies; then he fought against Israel, and took some of them prisoners… <a href="/deuteronomy/2-1.htm">Deuteronomy 2:1-4,27,29</a> Then we turned, and took our journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea, as the LORD spake unto me: and we compassed mount Seir many days… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/numbers/20-16.htm">Border</a> <a href="/numbers/15-38.htm">Borders</a> <a href="/numbers/19-16.htm">Country</a> <a href="/numbers/20-11.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/numbers/20-11.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/numbers/18-32.htm">High</a> <a href="/mark/10-46.htm">Highway</a> <a href="/genesis/39-20.htm">King's</a> <a href="/numbers/14-7.htm">Passed</a> <a href="/numbers/18-18.htm">Right</a> <a href="/numbers/16-15.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/leviticus/25-4.htm">Vineyard</a> <a href="/numbers/16-14.htm">Vineyards</a> <a href="/numbers/20-13.htm">Water</a> <a href="/numbers/18-28.htm">Way</a> <a href="/exodus/15-27.htm">Wells</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/numbers/20-21.htm">Border</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Borders</a> <a href="/numbers/21-20.htm">Country</a> <a href="/numbers/20-19.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/numbers/20-20.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/numbers/20-19.htm">High</a> <a href="/numbers/20-19.htm">Highway</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">King's</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Passed</a> <a href="/numbers/22-26.htm">Right</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Vineyard</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Vineyards</a> <a href="/numbers/20-19.htm">Water</a> <a href="/numbers/20-19.htm">Way</a> <a href="/numbers/21-22.htm">Wells</a><div class="vheading2">Numbers 20</div>1. <a href="/numbers/20-1.htm">The children of Israel come to Zin, where Miriam dies.</a> 2. <a href="/numbers/20-2.htm">They murmur for want of water</a> 7. <a href="/numbers/20-7.htm">Moses smiting the rock, brings forth water at Meribah</a> 14. <a href="/numbers/20-14.htm">Moses at Kadesh desires passage through Edom, which is denied him</a> 22. <a href="/numbers/20-22.htm">At Mount Hor Aaron resigns his place to Eleazar, and dies</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/numbers/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/numbers/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/numbers/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Please let us pass through your land. This request is made by the Israelites to the Edomites as they journey towards the Promised Land. The land in question is Edom, located south of the Dead Sea. The Edomites are descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, making them relatives of the Israelites. This familial connection is significant, as it underscores the expectation of hospitality and cooperation. The request reflects a diplomatic approach, seeking peaceful passage rather than conflict. Historically, such requests were common in the ancient Near East, where travel often required permission from local rulers.We will not go through any field or vineyard, The Israelites assure the Edomites that their passage will not disrupt local agriculture. Fields and vineyards were vital to the economy and sustenance of the region, and trampling them could lead to significant loss. This promise indicates respect for Edomite property and resources, emphasizing the Israelites' intention to avoid any form of exploitation or harm. The mention of fields and vineyards also highlights the agricultural richness of Edom, contrasting with the Israelites' current wilderness experience.or drink water from any well. Water was a precious resource in the arid regions of the Near East. Wells were often privately owned and essential for survival. By promising not to drink from any wells, the Israelites demonstrate an understanding of the scarcity and value of water. This assurance further emphasizes their intention to pass through without imposing on Edomite resources. The scarcity of water in the wilderness journey of the Israelites is a recurring theme, highlighting their dependence on God's provision.We will stay on the King’s Highway; The King's Highway was an ancient trade route running from Egypt through the Sinai Peninsula to the northern regions of the Near East. It was a well-established path used for commerce and travel, providing a direct route through Edom. By committing to stay on this highway, the Israelites indicate their desire to take the most efficient and least intrusive path. The King's Highway's historical significance as a major trade route underscores the strategic importance of Edom's location.we will not turn to the right or to the left This phrase signifies the Israelites' commitment to a straightforward journey without deviation. It implies a promise of discipline and respect for Edomite boundaries, avoiding any unnecessary detours that might lead to conflict or trespass. Biblically, the concept of not turning to the right or left is often associated with obedience and faithfulness to God's commands, as seen in <a href="/deuteronomy/5-32.htm">Deuteronomy 5:32</a> and <a href="/joshua/1-7.htm">Joshua 1:7</a>.until we have passed through your territory. The Israelites' goal is to pass through Edom peacefully and efficiently, without lingering or causing disruption. This reflects their broader mission to reach the Promised Land, a journey guided by divine promise and direction. The emphasis on passing through highlights the transient nature of their request, seeking only temporary access rather than permanent settlement. This passage through Edom is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' wilderness journey, marked by challenges and reliance on God's guidance.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/m/moses.htm">Moses</a> The leader of the Israelites, who is making the request to pass through Edom. 2. <a href="/topical/i/israelites.htm">Israelites</a> The people of God, journeying from Egypt to the Promised Land. 3. <a href="/topical/e/edom.htm">Edom</a> The land inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and the territory the Israelites wish to pass through. 4. <a href="/topical/k/king's_highway.htm">King's Highway</a> An ancient trade route that the Israelites propose to use for their journey. 5. <a href="/topical/e/edomites.htm">Edomites</a> The people of Edom, who are being asked for permission to allow the Israelites to pass through their land.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/r/respect_for_others'_boundaries.htm">Respect for Others' Boundaries</a> The Israelites' request to pass through Edom without disturbing the land teaches us the importance of respecting others' property and boundaries. <a href="/topical/p/peaceful_negotiation.htm">Peaceful Negotiation</a> The approach of asking permission rather than assuming rights emphasizes the value of peaceful negotiation and diplomacy in resolving potential conflicts. <a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_provision.htm">Trust in God's Provision</a> Despite the refusal from Edom, the Israelites had to trust in God's provision and guidance, reminding us to rely on God when faced with obstacles. <a href="/topical/h/historical_context_and_relationships.htm">Historical Context and Relationships</a> Understanding the historical context between Israel and Edom can help us appreciate the complexities of relationships and the importance of reconciliation and peace. <a href="/topical/f/faithfulness_in_the_journey.htm">Faithfulness in the Journey</a> The commitment to stay on the King's Highway symbolizes faithfulness and determination in following God's path without deviation.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_numbers_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Numbers 20</a> <a href="/q/can_archaeology_confirm_mt._seir's_ruin.htm">In Ezekiel 35:3–4, can archaeological evidence confirm the eternal desolation of Mount Seir as prophesied? </a> <a href="/q/why_little_evidence_for_edom's_chiefs.htm">Why is there minimal archaeological evidence for the “chiefs of Edom” referenced in Genesis 36:15–19? </a> <a href="/q/evidence_of_edom_denying_israel_passage.htm">Numbers 20:14-21 - Is there any historical or archaeological evidence supporting Edom's refusal to allow Israel passage?</a> <a href="/q/why_do_numbers_20_8-11_and_exodus_17_6_differ.htm">Numbers 20:8-11 - Why does this passage seem inconsistent with Exodus 17:6 regarding the instructions God gives Moses for drawing water from a rock?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/numbers/20.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(17) We will go by the king's highway.--It is supposed that this military road led through the broad Wady el Ghuweir, which is celebrated for its excellent pasture and its numerous springs. (See Keil in loc.)<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/numbers/20.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 17. - Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country. Moses desired to march through Seir eastwards and northeastwards, so as to reach the country beyond Jordan. If the northern portion of the wilderness of Paran was at this time held by the king of Edom, it would be through this region that Israel would first seek to make their way from Kadesh to the Arabah; thence the broad and easy pass of the Wady Ghuweir would lead them through Mount Seir (properly so called) to the plains of Moab. Through the fields, or through the vineyards. These words attest the change for the worse in the condition of these regions. Even in the Wady Ghuweir, although springs and pasturage are abundant, fields and vineyards hardly exist. Neither will we drink, i.e., as appears from verse 19, without obtaining leave and making payment. By the king's highway. דֶּרֶך הַמֶּלֶך. The state road used for military purposes. <a href="/commentaries/numbers/20-17.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Please נָּ֣א (nā) Interjection <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4994.htm">Strong's 4994: </a> I pray', 'now', 'then' let us pass נַעְבְּרָה־ (na‘·bə·rāh-) Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5674.htm">Strong's 5674: </a> To pass over, through, or by, pass on through your land. בְאַרְצֶ֗ךָ (ḇə·’ar·ṣe·ḵā) Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_776.htm">Strong's 776: </a> Earth, land We will not לֹ֤א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no cut נַעֲבֹר֙ (na·‘ă·ḇōr) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5674.htm">Strong's 5674: </a> To pass over, through, or by, pass on through any field בְּשָׂדֶ֣ה (bə·śā·ḏeh) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7704.htm">Strong's 7704: </a> Field, land or vineyard, וּבְכֶ֔רֶם (ū·ḇə·ḵe·rem) Conjunctive waw, Preposition | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> A garden, vineyard [or] וְלֹ֥א (wə·lō) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no drink נִשְׁתֶּ֖ה (niš·teh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8354.htm">Strong's 8354: </a> To imbibe water מֵ֣י (mê) Noun - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4325.htm">Strong's 4325: </a> Water, juice, urine, semen from any well. בְאֵ֑ר (ḇə·’êr) Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_875.htm">Strong's 875: </a> A pit, a well We will stay on נֵלֵ֗ךְ (nê·lêḵ) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1980.htm">Strong's 1980: </a> To go, come, walk the King’s הַמֶּ֣לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> A king Highway; דֶּ֧רֶךְ (de·reḵ) Noun - common singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> A road, a course of life, mode of action we will not לֹ֤א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no turn נִטֶּה֙ (niṭ·ṭeh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5186.htm">Strong's 5186: </a> To stretch out, spread out, extend, incline, bend to the right יָמִ֣ין (yā·mîn) Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3225.htm">Strong's 3225: </a> The right hand, side, the south or to the left וּשְׂמֹ֔אול (ū·śə·mō·wl) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8040.htm">Strong's 8040: </a> Dark, the north, the left hand until עַ֥ד (‘aḏ) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5704.htm">Strong's 5704: </a> As far as, even to, up to, until, while we have passed through נַעֲבֹ֖ר (na·‘ă·ḇōr) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5674.htm">Strong's 5674: </a> To pass over, through, or by, pass on your territory.? גְּבוּלֶֽךָ׃ (gə·ḇū·le·ḵā) Noun - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1366.htm">Strong's 1366: </a> A cord, a boundary, the territory inclosed <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/numbers/20-17.htm">Numbers 20:17 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/numbers/20-17.htm">OT Law: Numbers 20:17 Please let us pass through your land: (Nu Num.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/numbers/20-16.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Numbers 20:16"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Numbers 20:16" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/numbers/20-18.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Numbers 20:18"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Numbers 20:18" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>