Book of Numbers - Chapter 31 - Verse 2

In this verse from the book of Numbers, the Lord commands Moses to avenge the children of Israel against the Midianites. The Midianites had led the Israelites into sin by luring them into worshipping their gods, which resulted in a plague among the Israelites. The Lord sought retribution for this betrayal of his chosen people, instructing Moses to lead the Israelites into battle against the Midianites. By carrying out this act of vengeance, Moses would be fulfilling the will of God and bringing justice to the Israelites. The second part of the verse, "afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people," refers to the fact that after Moses carries out this task, he will be reunited with his ancestors in death. This serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of life and the importance of fulfilling one's duties before being gathered to one's people in the afterlife.

In this verse from the book of Numbers, God commands Moses to take revenge on the Midianites for their role in leading the Israelites astray. The theological interpretation of this verse centers around the idea of God's justice and the importance of obedience to His commands. The word "avenge" implies a sense of righteous anger and retribution on behalf of the children of Israel, illustrating God's commitment to protecting His chosen people. The phrase "afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people" foreshadows Moses' impending death, reminding readers of the transient nature of earthly life and the ultimate reunion with one's ancestors in the afterlife. This verse highlights the themes of divine justice, obedience, and mortality, inviting readers to reflect on the consequences of disobedience and the importance of remaining faithful to God's will.