John Gills Exposition of the Bible Commentary - Numbers 20:15
How our fathers went down into Egypt ,.... Jacob and his twelve sons, with their children: and we have dwelt in Egypt a long time ; even the space of four hundred and thirty years, Exodus 12:40 . and the Egyptians vexed us and our fathers ; used them ill, brought them into bondage, and made their lives bitter, laid heavy tasks and burdens upon them, as well as slew their male children, see Exodus 1:7 . read more
Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - Numbers 20:14-21
We have here the application made by Israel to the Edomites. The nearest way to Canaan from the place where Israel now lay encamped was through the country of Edom. Now, I. Moses sends ambassadors to treat with the king of Edom for leave to pass through his country, and gives them instructions what to say, Num. 20:14-17. 1. They are to claim kindred with the Edomites: Thus saith thy brother Israel. Both nations descended from Abraham and Isaac, their common ancestors; Esau and Jacob, the two... read more