Numbers 25:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The profound nature of justice can be seen in its unwavering consistency, unaffected by location, time, or individuals, and it even stands as a principle in dealings with adversaries. It is deemed unjust to alter the agreed-upon battlefield or day unexpectedly. There exists a clear distinction between being overtaken in combat and being ensnared through deceit or accident. Nevertheless, the most brutal retribution is often reserved for those who exhibit greater cruelty and treachery, along with those who have inflicted greater harm. This was evident with the Midianites, whose women enticed many of the Israelites into transgression, stirring God's wrath against His people. (Num. 25:1-18; 31:1-24) Thus, while Moses, after his conquest, spared none of them, Joshua chose not to annihilate the Gibeonites. Instead, these were punished for leading our ancestors astray not by force but by cunning deceit.