The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation.
The LORD is patient and very merciful, forgiving wrongdoing and rebellion, but He will not let the guilty go unpunished. He will bring consequences for the fathers' sins upon their children to the third and fourth generation.
This verse describes God as both incredibly patient and merciful, yet also just, He forgives sin but ensures that consequences for wrongdoing affect future generations.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Numbers, chapter 14, the Israelites are wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt and have just rebelled against God by refusing to enter the Promised Land due to the spies' discouraging report. Moses intercedes on their behalf, quoting this description of God's character to plead for mercy and prevent their destruction. This verse echoes God's earlier self-revelation to Moses in Exodus, highlighting the balance of His mercy and justice within the covenant relationship with Israel.
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