Numbers 20:14

14. Moses sent messengers There is no proof that this message was commanded by the Lord, though it may be inferred from Deuteronomy 2:1-6.

Edom The territory formerly called Mount Seir. In later times it was known as Idumea. It extended southward as far as Elath, its only seaport, on the eastern arm of the Red Sea. On the east it was bounded by the great Arabian Desert, and on the north by the Dead Sea. Its western boundary is involved in the dispute relative to the location of Kadesh. See Numbers 20:16, note. A right of way was also requested of Moab, probably at the same time. See Judges 11:17-18, note.

Thy brother Israel Edom was a kindred nation. “The Lord would have the brotherly relation cheerfully acknowledged on the part of his people, as they both looked to a common ancestor in Isaac, and both inherited the rite of circumcision, which would naturally be a bond of fraternal connexion. By this fraternal appeal to Moab, Moses sought to obtain the king of Moab’s permission to pass through his territory. He acted herein in the spirit of the precept, “Thou shalt not abhor an Edomite, for he is thy brother.” Deuteronomy xxiii, 7. Bush.

Travail Distress. See Exodus 18:8, note. The message assumes a perfect acquaintance thus far with the history of Israel on the part of Edom. This is not strange considering the nearness of Edom to Egypt, their commercial intercourse, and the marvels which had attended the outgoing of Israel from this house of bondage.