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
Moses is interceding for the Israelites after they refused to enter the Promised Land, quoting back to God His own character as revealed at Mount Sinai. The Israelites had just rebelled against God's command to take possession of Canaan after hearing the fearful report of the spies. Moses is appealing to God's mercy while acknowledging His justice.
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