King James Version

What Does Psalms 106:14 Mean?

Psalms 106:14 in the King James Version says “But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. lusted: Heb. lusted a lust” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 106 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. lusted: Heb. lusted a lust”

Psalms 106:14 · King James Version

Context

12

Then believed they his words; they sang his praise.

13

They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: They soon: Heb. They made haste, they forgat

14

But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. lusted: Heb. lusted a lust

15

And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.

16

They envied Moses also in the camp, and Aaron the saint of the LORD.

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Commentaries4 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
This verse describes Israel's lustful craving in the wilderness. 'Lusted exceedingly' translates the Hebrew construction avah taavah (אָוָה תַּאֲוָה), an intensive form meaning they lusted with strong lust—emphasizing the intensity and sinfulness of their desire. 'In the wilderness' notes the location of their rebellion, a place where they should have been especially dependent on God. 'Tempted God in the desert' (nasah, נָסָה) means they tested or tried God, demanding proof of His care and challenging His provision. This refers to demanding meat (Numbers 11:4-34), not being content with manna. Lust—inordinate desire that demands satisfaction—is identified as testing God, showing that discontentment with God's provision is actually rebellion against God Himself.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Numbers 11 records the 'mixed multitude' craving meat and fish from Egypt, despising the manna God provided. Their lust spread to Israelites who 'wept again' for meat. God gave them quail in abundance, but while the meat was still in their mouths, His anger fell and many died (Numbers 11:33-34). The place was named Kibroth-hattaavah ('graves of lust/craving'). This demonstrated that getting what we lust for can become judgment.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does discontentment with God's provision constitute rebellion against Him?
  2. What is the difference between legitimate needs and sinful, inordinate cravings?
  3. In what ways do believers today 'test God' by demanding more than His provision?

Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וַיִּתְאַוּ֣וּ1 of 6

“But lusted”

H183

to wish for

תַ֭אֲוָה2 of 6

“exceedingly”

H8378

a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)

בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר3 of 6

“in the wilderness”

H4057

a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert

וַיְנַסּוּ4 of 6

“and tempted”

H5254

to test; by implication, to attempt

אֵ֝֗ל5 of 6

“God”

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

בִּֽישִׁימֽוֹן׃6 of 6

“in the desert”

H3452

a desolation

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 106:14 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 Psalms 106:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Corinthians 10:91 Corinthians 10:6Numbers 11:4Exodus 17:2Hebrews 3:8-10Deuteronomy 9:22

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