Chapter 41—How Balaam Led Israel Into Sin
This chapter is based on
Numbers 25
.
With renewed faith in God the victorious armies of Israel had
returned from Bashan and were confident of the immediate conquest
of Canaan. Only the river Jordan lay between them and the Promised
Land. Just across the river was a rich plain watered with streams and
shaded by luxuriant palm trees. On the western border rose the towers
and palaces of Jericho, “the city of palm trees.”
On the eastern side of Jordan was a plain several miles in width
and extending some distance along the river. This sheltered valley had
the climate of the tropics. Here the Israelites encamped and in the
acacia groves found an agreeable retreat.
But amid these attractive surroundings they were to encounter
an evil more deadly than hosts of armed men or wild beasts of the
wilderness. That country, rich in natural advantages, had been defiled
by the inhabitants. In the public worship of Baal, the most degrading
scenes were enacted. On every side were places noted for idolatry and
licentiousness, the names suggestive of corruption.
The Israelites’ minds became familiar with the vile thoughts con-
stantly suggested. Their life of ease produced its demoralizing effect,
and almost unconsciously they were departing from God into a condi-
tion where they would fall prey to temptation.
During the time of their encampment beside Jordan, Moses was
preparing for the occupation of Canaan. In this work the great leader
was fully employed. But to the people this time of suspense was most
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trying, and before many weeks had elapsed their history was marred
by frightful departures from virtue and integrity.
Midianitish women began to steal into the camp. It was the object
of these women to seduce the Hebrews into transgression of the law
of God and lead them into idolatry. These motives were studiously
concealed under the garb of friendship.
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