Numbers 14:16
Because the LORD was not able to bring this people into the land which he sware unto them, therefore he hath slain them in the wilderness.
Original Language Analysis
מִבִּלְתִּ֞י
was not
H1115
מִבִּלְתִּ֞י
was not
Strong's:
H1115
Word #:
1 of 14
properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n
יְכֹ֣לֶת
able
H3201
יְכֹ֣לֶת
able
Strong's:
H3201
Word #:
2 of 14
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
יְהוָ֗ה
Because the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֗ה
Because the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 14
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 14
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הָעָ֣ם
this people
H5971
הָעָ֣ם
this people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
6 of 14
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
הַזֶּ֔ה
H2088
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
10 of 14
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
נִשְׁבַּ֣ע
which he sware
H7650
נִשְׁבַּ֣ע
which he sware
Strong's:
H7650
Word #:
11 of 14
to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)
Cross References
Deuteronomy 9:28Lest the land whence thou broughtest us out say, Because the LORD was not able to bring them into the land which he promised them, and because he hated them, he hath brought them out to slay them in the wilderness.Joshua 7:9For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear of it, and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt thou do unto thy great name?Joshua 7:7And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord GOD, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!
Historical Context
The surrounding nations knew of Israel's Exodus and wilderness journey (as Rahab later testified, Joshua 2:9-10). Their interpretation of events would shape their understanding of Yahweh's power and character, making Israel's experience a testimony—either to God's faithfulness or (falsely) to His weakness.
Questions for Reflection
- How do unbelievers interpret the trials and disciplines you experience as a Christian?
- What opportunities do you have to correct false perceptions of God's character?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Moses' intercession imagines the nations' false conclusion that God 'slew them in the wilderness' out of inability to fulfill His promise. This hypothetical speech highlights how God's judgments can be misinterpreted when observers lack understanding of covenant relationship and the necessity of divine holiness.