And command thou the people, saying, Ye are to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore:
Give this command to the people: 'You are going to travel through the territory of your relatives, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. They will be afraid of you, so be very careful how you act.'
God is telling Moses to warn the Israelites to be respectful and careful when passing through their relatives' land, even though those relatives will fear them.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred during Israel's 40-year wilderness wandering as they were finally approaching the Promised Land. The Edomites (descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother) had settled in the mountainous region of Seir, southeast of the Dead Sea. God was directing the Israelites to take a specific route that would pass through Edomite territory on their way to Canaan.
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