These are the commandments and the rules that the LORD commanded through Moses to the people of Israel in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse acts as a closing statement, not just for the immediate discussion about inheritance laws, but for the entire book of Numbers. It emphasizes that all these complex laws and judgments, even the very ones just debated, were directly given by God through Moses as Israel stood on the brink of their promised land.
These are the commandments and the rules that the LORD commanded through Moses to the people of Israel in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse serves as a concluding summary for the book of Numbers, marking the end of the laws and events that transpired while the Israelites were camped in the plains of Moab, just on the cusp of crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It ties together the final instructions, including the crucial matter of inheritance for women like Zelophehad's daughters, which immediately precedes this statement.
This verse feels like a closing statement, a final summary. But what exactly is it summarizing, and why is it placed here?
This concluding verse in Numbers acts as a formal sign-off to the laws and events that took place while Israel was camped in the plains of Moab. It’s not just a simple ending, but a deliberate declaration that the preceding commandments and judgments were specifically given for this transitional period and for the upcoming conquest of the Promised Land. Think of it like a teacher handing out the final instructions before a big exam – these words are crucial for what comes next.
The text highlights that these instructions were given 'by the hand of Moses,' emphasizing his role as God's mediator. The location, 'plains of Moab by the Jordan near Jericho,' is significant. It's the last stop before crossing into the land God promised them. This placement underscores that the laws were practical, direct, and essential for the immediate future. It’s a reminder that even as God prepares to fulfill His promises, His commands remain the guiding principle for His people.
The verse uses two key terms: 'commandments' and 'judgments.' What do they mean, and why are both important?
The terms 'commandments' (Hebrew: mitzvot) and 'judgments' (Hebrew: mishpatim) in this verse refer to the different ways God’s will was expressed to Israel.
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By using both terms, the text emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's instruction. It wasn't just about spiritual devotion, but also about living justly and orderly, especially as they prepared to possess their land. These weren't arbitrary rules, but God’s established ways for His people to thrive.
Understand the original words
mitsvah · Hebrew Noun
A formal charge, order, or instruction issued by a person of authority, often used in scripture to describe God’s revealed will for His people.
mishpat · Hebrew Noun
Statutes, ordinances, or legal regulations established by God, often implying a binding requirement or a portion allotted by law.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The covenant name of the God of Israel, YHWH, who reveals Himself as the faithful, self-existent One who redeems His people.
This concluding verse places the entirety of the Book of Numbers within a specific geographical and historical moment: the Israelite encampment in the plains of Moab, just before their monumental crossing of the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It anchors the detailed laws and narratives within the concrete reality of their imminent inheritance.
c. 1446 BC
Israel Departs Egypt
After 400 years of slavery, the Israelites are led out of Egypt by Moses, beginning their journey to the Promised Land.
c. 1445-1406 BC
Wandering in the Wilderness
For 40 years, the Israelites travel through the wilderness. During this time, God gives them many laws and commands, recorded in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
c. 1406 BC
Conquest of Transjordan
The Israelites defeat the Amorite kings Sihon and Og, gaining control of the land east of the Jordan River. This establishes their encampment.
c. 1406 BC— this verse
Israel Enters Plains of Moab
The Israelites arrive and set up camp in the plains of Moab, situated east of the Jordan River and opposite Jericho. This is where the final events and laws recorded in the Book of Numbers take place.
c. 1406 BC
Division of Land East of Jordan
The tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with half of Manasseh, are granted their inheritance in the conquered Transjordanian territory, after agreeing to help conquer the land west of the Jordan.
c. 1406 BC
Law of Inheritance Clarified
The specific case of Zelophehad's daughters is addressed, leading to a new law ensuring inheritances remain within their original tribal lines. This is the culmination of the laws in Numbers.
c. 1406 BC
Census and Preparation for Conquest
A final census is taken, and Joshua is appointed as Moses' successor. The stage is set for Israel to cross the Jordan and conquer Canaan.
This passage also concludes a section of law with a similar formula, highlighting the continuity of God's commands given through Moses.
Deuteronomy 1:1-5This passage sets the stage for Deuteronomy by explaining that Moses delivered these laws and commands to the Israelites in the plains of Moab, just as Numbers 36:13 states.
Joshua 1:1-2This verse marks the transition into the Promised Land, directly following the period described in Numbers 36, emphasizing that the commands given in Moab were to guide them into their inheritance.
Ezekiel 20:35-37This prophetic passage echoes the idea of God bringing His people from one wilderness to another (from Egypt to the plains of Moab, and then into the land) and pleading with them, drawing a parallel to the end of the wilderness journey detailed in Numbers.
gillNumbers 36:13: "These are the commandments and the judgments, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho."
These are the commandments and the judgments,.... The judicial laws concerning the division of the land of Canaan, the case of inheritances in it, and the cities of refuge: which the Lord commanded by, the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel, in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho; where the Israelites…
clarkeNumbers 36:13: "These are the commandments and the judgments, which the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho."
These are the commandments, etc. - See these different terms analyzed and explained, Leviticus 26:15 (note). Thus ends the book of Numbers, containing a series of astonishing providences and events. Scarcely any piece of history in the sacred writings is better calculated to impress the mind of a serious reader wit…
This verse acts as a closing statement, not just for the immediate discussion about inheritance laws, but for the entire book of Numbers. It emphasizes that all these complex laws and judgments, even the very ones just debated, were directly given by God through Moses as Israel stood on the brink of their promised land.
This verse serves as a concluding summary for the book of Numbers, marking the end of the laws and events that transpired while the Israelites were camped in the plains of Moab, just on the cusp of crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It ties together the final instructions, including the crucial matter of inheritance for women like Zelophehad's daughters, which immediately precedes this statement.
This verse serves as a concluding summary for the book of Numbers, marking the end of the laws and events that transpired while the Israelites were camped in the plains of Moab, just on the cusp of crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It ties together the final instructions, including the crucial matter of inheritance for women like Zelophehad's daughters, which immediately precedes this statement.
"These are the commandments and the rules that the LORD commanded through Moses to the people of Israel in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho." — This verse acts as a closing statement, not just for the immediate discussion about inheritance laws, but for the entire book of Numbers. It emphasizes that all these complex laws and judgments, ev…
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Last reviewed October 2026