Numbers 32:7

7 That might discourage them from entering the land the LORD has given them.

Numbers 32:7 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 32:7

Wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel
&c.] Which he suggests it would, should they settle on that side Jordan, since they would lose the assistance of two of their tribes, even two thirds of one of their standards in fighting with their enemies and subduing their land; and besides it might be thought that this request of theirs not only proceeded from selfish views and a love of ease, which might set a bad example to others, but carried in it a distrust of ever being able to enter into, at least to conquer and possess, the land of Canaan, and so might have a tendency to discourage their brethren:

from going over into the land,
which the Lord hath given them? despairing of ever enjoying it, and so laying aside all thoughts of it, and not caring to make any attempt to get possession of it.

Numbers 32:7 In-Context

5 Please give us this land as our property. Don't make us cross the Jordan River."

6 Moses asked the tribes of Gad and Reuben, "Are you going to stay here while the rest of the Israelites go to war?

7 That might discourage them from entering the land the LORD has given them.

8 That's what your ancestors did when I sent them from Kadesh Barnea to take a look at the land.

9 They went as far as the Eshcol Valley and saw the land. But then they discouraged the rest of the Israelites from entering the land that the LORD had given them.