Numbers 14:26
And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 7
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
This threat came as the people gathered to stone Moses and Aaron (v. 10), showing the congregation's violent rejection of God's appointed leaders. Divine protection required separation between faithful and faithless.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's call to 'come out from among them' (2 Corinthians 6:17) protect believers from judgment on the wicked?
- What role does intercessory prayer play in averting God's judgment?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
God commands Moses and Aaron to separate from the congregation 'that I may consume them in a moment.' This echoes God's threat after the golden calf (Exodus 32:10), testing Moses' heart and providing opportunity for intercession. God's justice demands judgment, yet His mercy delights in finding reasons to spare.