Numbers 10:31

31. Leave us not Even a decided refusal may be overcome by earnest persuasion. For we infer from Judges 1:16; Jdg 4:11 ; 1 Samuel 15:6, where the descendants of Hobab, called Kenites, are abiding with Israel, even down to the time of Saul, that the entreaty of Moses prevailed, and that Hobab, after a visit to his own land, returned and accompanied the Hebrews into Canaan. “It is always pleasant to read the indications of a return to the way of life on the part of those who have at one time seemed resolved to forsake it. We hail with delight every instance where the man who at first refuses to enter the vineyard afterward repents and goes.” Bush.

Thou mayest be to us instead of eyes Though Jehovah had promised to lead Israel in the desert, yet no promise of divine guidance is designed to supersede the use of the best natural means within their reach. God usually helps men in the manner best adapted to the development of their own self-reliance. In this case “the cloud directed their general journeys, but not their particular excursions. Parties took several journeys while the grand army lay still.” A. Clarke. The best camping grounds might not always be near to springs of water and pasturage. An experienced guide would be necessary to point out these. Similar service would be required in the commercial intercourse of Israel with the nomad tribes which lay along their path. Hence the Septuagint rendering is, “Thou shall be among us a presbutes ” an ambassador, legate, or negotiator. Says Bruce, in speaking of guides in the desert: “They are men of great consideration, knowing perfectly the situation and properties of all kinds of water to be met on the route, the distance of the wells, whether occupied by enemies or not, and, if so, the way to avoid them with the least inconvenience.” From their connexion with powerful tribes they are able to conciliate their favour. “As no further refusal is mentioned on the part of Hobab, and the departure of Israel is related immediately afterward, he probably consented.” Knobel.