Numbers 14:6
And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
Original Language Analysis
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
מִן
H4480
מִן
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
הַתָּרִ֖ים
which were of them that searched
H8446
הַתָּרִ֖ים
which were of them that searched
Strong's:
H8446
Word #:
8 of 12
to meander (causatively, guide) about, especially for trade or reconnoitring
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Cross References
Numbers 14:30Doubtless 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.Numbers 13:30And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.Genesis 37:34And Jacob rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son many days.Genesis 37:29And Reuben returned unto the pit; and, behold, Joseph was not in the pit; and he rent his clothes.Numbers 14:38But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of the men that went to search the land, lived still.Numbers 13:8Of the tribe of Ephraim, Oshea the son of Nun.Numbers 13:6Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.
Historical Context
Rending garments was a standard expression of grief in ancient Israel, particularly in response to blasphemy or covenant violation (Genesis 37:29, 2 Kings 18:37). Joshua and Caleb recognized that rejecting God's promise constituted covenant breaking deserving such dramatic response.
Questions for Reflection
- What grieves you about the unbelief you observe in God's people today?
- How do you respond when you stand in a minority that trusts God's promises?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Joshua and Caleb's tearing of garments expressed grief over the people's unbelief and the impending judgment it would bring. This traditional sign of mourning demonstrated that they understood what was at stake—not merely a military campaign but the nation's covenant relationship with God. Their anguish revealed hearts aligned with God's purposes rather than popular opinion.