Final answer:
The spies of Moses were 12 scouts sent to observe the land of Canaan, but only Joshua and Caleb returned with a favorable report, leading to the belief of victory with God's help, while the others provoked fear and doubt among the Israelites.
Step-by-step explanation:
The spies of Moses are referenced in the Bible within the Book of Numbers, particularly in chapters 13 and 14. Moses, at God's command, sent 12 spies to explore the land of Canaan, which the Israelites had been promised as their new home. After 40 days, the spies returned with their report. While Joshua and Caleb brought back a favorable account, trusting that the Israelites could conquer the land with God's help, the other 10 spies spoke fearfully of the strong inhabitants and the fortified cities, which led to the Israelites' doubt and eventually caused God to decree that none of the adult Israelites who had left Egypt would enter the Promised Land, except for Joshua and Caleb.