Numbers 20:4 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

And why have ye brought up the congregation of the LORD into this wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there?

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

Why did you bring the LORD's people into this desert where we and our animals will die?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The Israelites are angrily questioning Moses and Aaron about why they led them into a dangerous wilderness where they fear they will all perish.

📚 Historical Context

In the Book of Numbers, the Israelites were wandering in the desert after their exodus from Egypt, as God led them toward the Promised Land as part of His covenant. At this moment in chapter 20, the people had arrived at Kadesh and were suffering from a severe water shortage, prompting them to accuse Moses and Aaron of bringing them there to die. This complaint was part of a pattern of rebellion and doubt among the Israelites, despite God's previous miracles like the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of manna.

Explore Similar Verses

Isaiah 34:14

Wild desert animals will meet with creatures from distant lands, and goat-like demons will call out to each other. Night creatures will settle there and make it their home.

Isaiah 30:6

This is a message about the animals of the desert: Into a land full of trouble and suffering, where young and old lions live, along with poisonous snakes and deadly flying serpents, they will load their wealth on the backs of young donkeys and their treasures on camels' humps, taking them to a people who will not help them at all.

Isaiah 13:21

Instead, wild desert animals will make their homes there. Their houses will be filled with mournful creatures, owls will live there, and wild goats will leap about there.

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