Why Moab Gathered Into Its Cities as Israel Approached

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Balak 3:1

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

(Numbers 22:3:) "WAYYAGOR MOAB." What is the meaning of "wayyagor"? When they (Israel) appeared to the Ammonites, they appeared wrapped for peace; to the Moabites they appeared armed. As it is said (Deuteronomy 2:19): "AND WHEN YOU DRAW NEAR, OPPOSITE THE CHILDREN OF AMMON, DO NOT TROUBLE THEM [AND DO NOT PROVOKE THEM]." "DO NOT TROUBLE THEM" — with any kind of trouble; "AND DO NOT PROVOKE THEM" — with any kind of provocation. But concerning Moab He said (Deuteronomy 2:9): "DO NOT TROUBLE MOAB [AND DO NOT CONTEND WITH THEM IN WAR]" — whatever you are able to seize from outside, seize. Therefore they appeared armed, and they (the Moabites) were gathering themselves into their cities, as it is said: "WAYYAGOR MOAB." "Wayyagor" means nothing other than a term for gathering, as in what is said (Proverbs 10:5): "ONE WHO GATHERS IN SUMMER IS A PRUDENT SON."

Themes

WarWisdomHeresyBible

Biblical References

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