Numbers 20:20

20 But the Edomites said, "You may not pass through." Then they came out and attacked with many well-armed troops.

Numbers 20:20 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 20:20

And he said, thou shall not go through
Which is an absolute and peremptory denial:

and Edom came out against him with much people, and with a strong hand;
the king raised the militia of his country, and came at the head of a powerful army to hinder their passing into it; being fearful and jealous, lest such a large body as they were should seize on his country, or spoil it, not relying on their promises; and this might arise also from the old grudge of Esau against Jacob, and which continued in his posterity, and might now be revived upon their going to Canaan to possess the earthly blessing conferred on Jacob and his seed: however, it seems, though the Edomites would not let Israel pass through their country, yet they furnished them with food and drink for their money, ( Deuteronomy 2:28 Deuteronomy 2:29 ) .

Numbers 20:20 In-Context

18 But the Edomites answered, "You may not pass through our country. If you try, we'll come out and attack you."

19 The Israelites replied, "We'll stay on the main road, and if we or our livestock drink any of your water, we'll pay for it. We want to pass through on foot. That's all."

20 But the Edomites said, "You may not pass through." Then they came out and attacked with many well-armed troops.

21 Since the Edomites refused to let Israel go through their territory, the Israelites turned around and went a different way.

22 The whole community of Israel left Kadesh and came to Mount Hor.