And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded.
They also took Nebo and Baal-meon (changing their names), and Shibmah. They gave new names to the cities they built.
The writer is describing how the Israelites renamed the cities they conquered and built, likely removing references to pagan gods.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Numbers, the tribes of Reuben and Gad were settling the land east of the Jordan River after it had been conquered from other nations, as part of Israel's broader conquest of the Promised Land. They rebuilt and fortified cities, changing names like Nebo and Baalmeon to distance themselves from pagan associations and to honor God, reflecting the Israelites' commitment to live distinctly under Moses' leadership. This renaming symbolized their dedication to the Lord amid ongoing settlement and preparation for the rest of the tribes to enter Canaan.
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