King James Version
What Does Numbers 14:3 Mean?
“And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?”
Context
1
And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.
2
And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!
3
And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?
4
And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.
5
Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **And wherefore hath the Lord brought us unto this land . . .?**—Better, *And wherefore doth the Lord bring us into this land?*—*i.e., *the land of Canaan, as clearly appears from the words which follow (comp. Numbers 15:18, where the same Hiphil participle is used). The destruction which the Israelites apprehended at this time was not a destruction by famine or drought, but by the sword of the Amorites and of the children of the Anakim. (Comp. Deuteronomy 1:27-28.)
**That our wives and our children should be a prey—**i.e., should fall into the hands of the enemy after their entrance into the land of Canaan. (Comp. Exodus 15:14-17.) It is possible, however, that the land through which the Israelites were passing may be included here and in Numbers 14:14.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 14:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 14:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge