It is a memorable and very melancholy story which is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, when they were just ready to set foot in it, and the sentencing of them to wander and perish in the wilderness for their unbelief and murmuring. It is referred to Psa 95:7, etc., and improved for warning to Christians, Heb 3:7, etc. In this chapter we have, I. The sending of twelve spies before them into Canaan (v. 1-16). II. The instructions given to these spies (Num 13:17-20). III. Their executing their commission according to their instructions, and their return from the search (Num 13:21-25). IV. The report they brought back to the camp of Israel (Num 13:26, etc.).