King James Version
What Does Numbers 14:30 Mean?
“Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. sware: Heb. lifted up my hand”
Context
28
Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you:
29
Your carcases shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me,
30
Doubtless ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware to make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. sware: Heb. lifted up my hand
31
But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them will I bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised.
32
But as for you, your carcases, they shall fall in this wilderness.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(30) **Concerning which I sware.—**Literally, *1 lifted up *my* hand. *Lifting up the hand is the attitude of swearing. (See Genesis 14:22 and Note; Deuteronomy 32:40.) The reference appears to be to the original covenant made with Abraham, and renewed to Isaac and Jacob, respecting the possession of the land of Canaan. (Comp. Genesis 15:7; Genesis 15:18; Genesis 17:8; Genesis 22:16-18; Genesis 26:3-4; Genesis 28:13; Exodus 6:8.)
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 14:30 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 14:30
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge