Definition: And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:3. It's a really difficult and troubling passage in the Bible, and it speaks about a very serious situation with the Israelites. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Core of the Verse: This verse is from the Book of Exodus (a part of the Old Testament). It describes a moment of intense crisis for the Israelites – they were living in a difficult and dangerous place, and they were facing a terrible choice. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword…” - This is the key question. "Wherefore" means why . The Israelites had been living in Egypt for many years and were experiencing a period of hardship – they were enslaved, facing oppression, and struggling with their own problems. The verse is asking: “Why did God bring us to this land?” It’s suggesting that this situation wasn't just random; there was a purpose behind it. “…to fall by the sword?” - This is the shocking part. The Israelites were being told they were brought to this land with the intention of being defeated with violence . They were essentially being set up for an attack, and the verse suggests that this was a deliberate plan. “that our wives and our children should be a prey?” - This is the most disturbing part. It’s not just about physical harm; it's about emotional harm. The verse emphasizes that the Israelites were being brought to this land as a target for violence against their families . It suggests they were being made vulnerable and at risk of losing everything precious to them - their wives, their children, and all those who depended on them. “were it not better for us to return into Egypt?” – This is the plea. The Israelites are facing a terrible choice. They are stuck in this dangerous situation. The verse offers a way out: "It would be better to go back to Egypt, where we are safe and protected.” What's the Meaning? This verse paints a picture of a desperate situation. It suggests that God might be testing or punishing the Israelites for their disobedience and lack of faith. It speaks to a deep-seated problem: the Israelites were prioritizing their own comfort and security over obedience to God’s laws, leading them into conflict and hardship. Important Context: This verse is part of a larger story about the Israelites' rebellion against God and their eventual exile from Egypt. It highlights a significant point in history – the beginning of the Israelite nation's wandering and separation from God. In short, this verse describes a moment of profound crisis where the Israelites were facing a terrifying prospect: being defeated and losing everything they held dear. --- Disclaimer: I’m an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on common interpretations of scripture. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Talk about the reasons behind the story?

Definition: Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, [concerning] which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:30. It’s a really important passage about God's judgment on Israel and its leaders. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is telling the Israelites that they are not welcome to stay in the land of Canaan (modern-day Israel) unless they specifically choose to do so by two individuals. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Numbers 14:30” : This refers to a specific event in the Old Testament, involving a group of leaders who were arguing about whether or not to enter Canaan. “Which I sware to make you dwell therein” : God is saying that He has made a solemn promise – a "sware" – to ensure that the Israelites will stay in this land. He’s making it clear he wants them there. “Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun” : This is the crucial part. God is choosing two specific people to be the only ones who are allowed to stay in Canaan. Caleb the son of Jephunneh: This is a very important figure. He was a leader during the time of Joshua and had a reputation for being stubborn and defiant. Joshua the son of Nun: This is another key figure – a leader who was known for his faithfulness and unwavering commitment to God’s will. So, what does it mean practically? It means that God is deliberately choosing to exclude the Israelites from Canaan. He’s making a very strong statement about their destiny – they are not meant to be in this land. Why is this important? This verse is considered one of the most significant warnings in the Old Testament. It's a powerful message about God's judgment and the consequences of disobedience. It’s often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the eventual destruction of Israel. In short, it's a clear declaration that God will not allow the Israelites to stay in Canaan unless they are chosen by two specific individuals. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some context about why this verse is significant? Or would you like a more detailed explanation of any particular aspect?

Definition: But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 14:31. It’s a really powerful and slightly unsettling passage about God’s plan for Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying that He will protect his people, specifically his children (the Israelites), even if they are causing trouble or making things difficult for him. He's going to bring them back into a place he considers undesirable – the land that Israel has been rejecting and complaining about. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey…” This is the key part. “Little ones” refers to the Israelites. The word "prey" means someone who is vulnerable or at risk. God is saying that his people are causing problems and putting them in danger – maybe through their disobedience, selfishness, or rebellion. “…them will I bring in…” This suggests a rescue or intervention. He's going to actively help them return. "...and they shall know the land which ye have despised.” This is where it gets really significant. “Disprased” means that Israel has been rejecting God’s laws, his prophets, and his way of life. They are being defiant and resisting him. So, by bringing them back, God intends for their land (the land they've rejected) to be restored – to become a place of righteousness and safety again. It’s like a lost child finding their way home. Overall Meaning: This verse is a promise of divine protection and restoration. It suggests that God will intervene to safeguard his people, even if they are causing problems, and ultimately bring them back into a place where they can be safe and righteous once more. It’s a message of hope and a reminder of God's unwavering care for his chosen people. Context is Important: This verse often appears in the context of Israel's history, particularly during times of rebellion and disobedience. It’s a dramatic warning about the consequences of defying God's will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the symbolism behind it (like a lost child)? Talk about its significance in the larger story of Israel's history?

Definition: But [as for] you, your carcases, they shall fall in this wilderness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:32. It's a pretty serious and dramatic statement about Israel's future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a catastrophic outcome for the Israelites – a complete failure of their leadership and strategy, leading to devastating consequences. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But [as for] you…” : This is a way of addressing the people of Israel, particularly those in charge – the leaders of the tribe of Benjamin. It's like saying "You, your leadership, and your actions..." “…your carcases” : “Carcases” refers to the temple altar where sacrifices were made to God. Think of it as the central focus of their religious practice. "...they shall fall in this wilderness.” : This is the core of the verse. "Wilderness" means a desolate, isolated place – a barren land far from any civilization or support. What does it mean practically? The message here is that the Israelites' leadership was failing miserably. They were: Lost and Disoriented: They were wandering aimlessly, without a clear purpose or direction. Poorly Led: Their leaders weren’t making sound decisions or effectively guiding the people. Isolated & Vulnerable: They were in a place where they couldn't rely on anyone for help – a remote and dangerous location. The Significance: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the potential for Israel to become isolated, lost, and vulnerable. It highlights the importance of strong leadership, clear purpose, and sound judgment. It’s a reminder that even with great faith, flawed leadership can lead to disaster. In short, it's saying: “Your actions are going to have serious consequences if you fail to follow God’s guidance.” --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts further? Give you a historical context for this verse (like its role in the story of Israel's wandering)?

Definition: And your children shall wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your whoredoms, until your carcases be wasted in the wilderness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:33. It’s a really serious and dramatic passage about Israel’s relationship with God and their future. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a period of intense hardship and separation for the Israelites, ultimately leading to a terrible consequence if they don't repent. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And your children shall wander in the wilderness…” : This refers to a long, difficult time – perhaps 40 years – where the Israelites are separated from their ancestral homeland and forced to live in a remote area. It’s a symbolic representation of hardship and exile. “…and bear your whoredoms…” : This is the most crucial part. "Whoredom" means something that goes against God's law and order – like idolatry (worshiping other gods) or straying from God’s path. The verse suggests they will be forced to live a life that is unclean and not in accordance with God’s will. It implies a profound moral crisis. “…until your carcases be wasted in the wilderness.” : “Carcases” refers to the wooden frames of the temple, which were used for sacrifices to God. "Wasted" means destroyed or ruined. This signifies that the Israelites will be forced to rely on themselves and their own resources (the wild animals, plants, and weather) to survive, ultimately leading to a lack of prosperity and a decline in their power. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse is a warning from God about the consequences of disobedience and straying away from Him. It’s a message of judgment and emphasizes that true faith requires obedience – staying true to God's laws and promises. It suggests that if the Israelites fail to repent (turn back to God) and live in sin, they will face severe repercussions - being left behind and facing hardship until their resources are depleted. Context & Why it’s Important: This passage is found in the Book of Numbers, which tells the story of Israel's wandering after leaving Mount Sinai. It was a pivotal moment because God showed them that they had disobeyed Him severely, and He was going to punish them with a long and difficult period of exile. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience in following God's will. In short, this verse paints a picture of a time of intense suffering and separation for Israel if they don’t change their ways. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you some examples of the kinds of things that might cause "whoredoms"? Connect this verse to other stories or biblical themes?

Definition: After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, [even] forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, [even] forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:34. It's a really powerful and serious message about the consequences of sin. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a period of intense judgment and punishment for Israel after they disobeyed God. It’s saying that they will experience a long, difficult time filled with terrible things. Let's unpack the parts: “After the number of the days in which ye searched the land…” : This refers to a period of intense searching and questioning – likely involving disobedience and wandering away from God’s laws. Think of it like a long, difficult journey where they didn’t follow God’s path. “…even forty days, each day for a year…” : This is a HUGE amount of time! It's not just a few weeks or months; it’s fourteen years . This emphasizes how much time was spent in disobedience. “…shall ye bear your iniquities…” : “Iniquities” means broken promises, deceit, and wrongdoing. So, this phrase basically means they will be plagued by these kinds of mistakes. It's a consequence of their actions. “…forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise.” : This is the core of the verse. For forty years, they will experience severe consequences because of their broken promises to God. "Breach of promise" means failing to keep what was promised – essentially, breaking trust with God. What does it mean in a nutshell? It’s saying that God’s judgment is coming on Israel for their repeated failures to follow His rules and laws. It's a period where they will face significant suffering and hardship due to their disobedience. Important Context (Briefly): This passage comes before the story of the Israelites wandering in the desert, which is often seen as a foreshadowing of this coming judgment. It’s a warning about the importance of obeying God's commands. In short, this verse paints a picture of a long and painful period of punishment for Israel because they disobeyed God. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a religious expert. If you are grappling with serious questions or concerns about faith or scripture, please consult with a qualified spiritual leader or counselor. Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Provide a historical context? Discuss the significance of this verse within the larger story of the Bible?

Definition: I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:35. It's a pretty powerful and serious passage about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying that a group of people – the Israelites – are gathering together against him, and they will be destroyed. He intends to use this situation as a way to punish them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I the LORD have said…” : This immediately establishes God as the authority being speaking. It’s not just someone saying something; it’s God making a definitive statement. “…I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation…” : "Congregation" means a group of people. “Evil” here is a big word, but it refers to the Israelites – their disobedience and rebellion against God. It's saying that these people are actively causing trouble and wrongdoing. "...that are gathered together against me:" : This emphasizes the group’s opposition. They’re coming together in a way that threatens God and his plan. “in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.” : This is the most frightening part. "Wilderness" refers to a place of hardship and isolation – likely a time of testing or exile. The phrase “consumed” means destroyed completely; “die” means to cease living. It suggests a complete ending to their existence. What’s the message? God is sending a clear warning about the consequences of rebellion against him. He's saying that this gathering together will lead to God’s wrath and ultimately, destruction for them. It’s a judgment delivered through a tangible consequence – they’ll be punished and lost. Important Context: This verse appears in the Old Testament, specifically in Numbers 14:35, during a time when the Israelites were wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. They had been defying God's laws and instructions, and this verse is a consequence of their disobedience. It’s a very serious moment for God. In short: This passage warns about the dangers of rebellion against God and promises that He will ultimately punish those who defy his authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?

Definition: And the men, which Moses sent to search the land, who returned, and made all the congregation to murmur against him, by bringing up a slander upon the land,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 14:36. It’s a really important moment in the story of Israel's relationship with God and it highlights a significant challenge they faced. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Moses Sends People: Moses was sending a group of men – essentially, leaders and messengers – to explore the land of Canaan (which is now part of modern-day Israel). They Return with a Problem: These men returned from their journey, but they didn’t report back well. They brought bad news: The people didn't want to hear what they said about Moses. The People Murmured (Spoke Badly): This is the core of the problem. The people started to talk badly about Moses and his intentions, even though he hadn’t done anything wrong. They spread rumors and negative stories. What it Means – A Bit Deeper: This verse tells us that the Israelites were experiencing a growing sense of distrust and resentment towards Moses. It wasn't just a few people complaining; it was a widespread feeling that they weren’t trusting him, and that he was causing trouble. Why it Matters (Historically): This story is considered one of the earliest examples of political maneuvering and social division within the Israelites. It shows how quickly negativity can spread when people don't trust their leader. It’s a crucial point in understanding why God eventually chose to deliver the Law to Moses – because he needed to show that He was truly in control and not subject to the whims of his people. In short, it's about a moment where people started to turn against Moses because they weren't trusting him, leading to conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this story in more detail? Talk about its significance within the larger narrative of the Old Testament?

Definition: Even those men that did bring up the evil report upon the land, died by the plague before the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:37. It's a really important and sobering passage about the Israelites and their relationship with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a group of leaders who deliberately spread a terrible, dangerous story – a story of impending doom – to try and provoke a negative reaction from God. It’s a classic example of intentional malice against God. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Even those men that did bring up the evil report…” : This refers to a group of prominent leaders in Israel, likely influential figures like kings, judges, and priests. They were actively trying to cause trouble and create conflict with God. “…upon the land…” : They were focusing their efforts on causing problems for the entire nation – the land they lived on. “…before the LORD” : This is the crucial part. The story was unfolding before God’s watchful eye. It meant they were acting with a deliberate disregard for God's will and His plan for Israel. What happened? According to the text, these leaders spread a false report – a tale of a terrible plague that would destroy the land. They wanted to make Israel angry and restless, so they hoped this anger would lead them to disobey God’s commands. The Significance: This verse is a warning about: The dangers of spreading gossip and rumors. It highlights how easily we can be manipulated by negativity and how quickly it can spread. The importance of listening to God's guidance. It shows that even seemingly harmless words or stories can have devastating consequences if they are deliberately misleading. The responsibility we have to be truthful and honest with God. It emphasizes the need to avoid causing harm through deception. In short, this verse tells us that when people intentionally spread malicious lies against God, it will inevitably lead to negative outcomes. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of a specific symbol or concept related to this verse (like judgment or repentance)?

Definition: But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of the men that went to search the land, lived [still].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:38. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising part of the story of the Israelites and their relationship with God. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, these two men – Joshua and Caleb – were still alive. Let’s unpack that a little further: “But Joshua the son of Nun…” This refers to Joshua, a leader in the Israelite army who was part of a group sent out to search for a promised land. “…and Caleb the son of Jephunneh…” This refers to Caleb, a young man who also went on this journey. “Jephunneh” is an ancient name for Joshua. “[which were] of the men that went to search the land.” This tells us they were part of a group specifically tasked with exploring and finding a place God had promised to give to them. The Key Point: The Bible says these two men still lived . It’s a significant detail because it suggests they weren't completely banished or forgotten after their journey. Why is this important? This verse raises some questions: It challenges our understanding of the past. Traditionally, we think that after the Israelites left Egypt and started wandering, they were all gone. This verse hints at a continued presence in the land. It suggests a connection to God's plan. It implies that God was still working with them, even after they left their homeland. In short, this verse is a reminder that God’s plans and His people are not always forgotten. They continue to be part of the story. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in biblical history? Give you another Bible verse with a similar theme?