Definition: Surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that provoked me see it:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Numbers 14:23. It’s a really significant and sobering passage about Israel’s relationship with its enemies. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse expresses deep sorrow and warning about the potential for Israel to become consumed by hostility and ultimately destroy itself. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers…” This is the most important part. “Sware unto their fathers” means "promise" or "swear to." The speaker (likely Moses) is saying that this group of people – the Israelites – have been promised a future place, a homeland, and a blessed life for generations. They've been told it’s their land. This promise was made before they were even born! “…neither shall any of them that provoked me see it.” This is where the warning comes in. “Provoke me” means to anger or upset God. The speaker is saying that if Israel ever becomes too aggressive, too defiant, and doesn’t respect God’s will, they will be seen as enemies. They will become a source of trouble and destruction. Overall Meaning: This verse paints a picture of a dangerous situation where Israel is on the verge of becoming a hostile nation. It’s a warning about the importance of maintaining peace, obeying God's laws, and avoiding actions that would lead to conflict. It suggests that if they fail to do so, the consequences could be devastating. Why is this verse important? It’s one of the most famous passages in the Old Testament because it speaks to the very beginning of Israel's history – its relationship with its neighbors and the potential for war. It highlights the responsibility that comes with being a nation chosen by God. In short, it’s a plea for vigilance and a reminder that peace and prosperity depend on staying true to God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some examples of how this verse relates to events in the Bible? Discuss what it might mean for our own lives today, considering the theme of conflict and peace?