Numbers 31:15
And Moses said unto them, Have ye saved all the women alive?
NUMBERS 31:15
Verse 15 records Moses’ question: “Have ye saved all the women alive?” This clarifies his concern—whether the action taken at the king’s command would preserve potential dangers to the covenant community. The rhetoric underscores the ongoing tension between mercy and justice, reminding readers that even righteous deeds require ongoing scrutiny to align with God’s ongoing will for purity, safety, and trust in Him.
This verse reinforces the moral complexity in covenant life: the boundary between mercy and risk. It highlights that leadership must weigh the spiritual and social consequences, and that true obedience involves continual assessment and repentance when misjudgments arise. It also points to the larger biblical arc where, in the New Testament, mercy and justice are harmonized within the gospel.
Practical takeaway: after decisive actions, revisit decisions, assess unintended consequences, and remain open to correction. Cultivate a culture of learning from mistakes, ensuring future actions align with wisdom, justice, and compassion. Build processes for post-action review, accountability, and restoration where possible, especially for vulnerable individuals affected by conflict.
Cross-References: Proverbs 3:5-6; James 1:5; Micah 6:8; Galatians 6:1