Numbers 14:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 14:19
19 Pardon, I beseech thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of thy mercy, and as thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.
Chapter Context
Numbers 14 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, salvation, holiness. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-45: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 14:19
19 Pardon, I beseech thee, the iniquity of this people according unto the greatness of thy mercy, and as thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.
Analysis
Moses grounds his plea for mercy in God's revealed character: 'longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression.' This appeal to divine attributes demonstrates that God's nature itself provides grounds for hope even after severe sin. God's mercy is not arbitrary but flows from His essential character.
Historical Context
Moses' words echo God's self-revelation after the golden calf incident (Exodus 34:6-7), showing that past demonstrations of mercy create a foundation for present petitions. God's character remains constant; His past forgiveness becomes grounds for confidence in present appeals.
Reflection
- Which attributes of God give you the greatest confidence when confessing sin?
- How does God's past mercy toward you affect your approach to Him in prayer?
Word Studies
- Forgive: סָלַח / נָשָׂא (Salach / Nasa) H5545 - To forgive, pardon, lift up
Cross-References
- Grace: Exodus 33:17, 34:9, Isaiah 55:7, Jonah 4:2
- Sin: Exodus 32:32, 1 Kings 8:34, Psalms 78:38, James 5:15
- Parallel theme: Psalms 106:45, Jonah 3:10