Old Testament
Numbers 11:12
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Did I conceive all these people? Did I give birth to them? Yet you tell me, 'Carry them in your arms, like a nurse carries a baby, all the way to the land you promised their ancestors.'
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Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers?
What Numbers 11:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses expresses his frustration and feelings of inadequacy as a leader. He questions whether he is responsible for the Israelites, comparing their needs to that of a mother caring for her child. Moses feels overwhelmed by the burden of leading such a large group and is seeking reassurance from God. He highlights the challenge of nurturing and guiding the people to the Promised Land, emphasizing that he did not create them or bring them into existence. This reflects the deep emotional and spiritual weight of leadership, especially when one feels unprepared or unsupported in their role.
How to apply Numbers 11:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the challenges of leadership and the importance of seeking support and guidance. When feeling overwhelmed, it's crucial to communicate our struggles and seek help from others, including God. Leaders should remember they are not alone in their responsibilities.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Seventy Elders and the Quail (Numbers 11:1–35)
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Moses
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 11:12 mean?
In Numbers 11:12, Moses expresses his frustration as a leader, questioning whether he is responsible for the Israelites. He feels overwhelmed by the burden of caring for such a large group, comparing their needs to that of a mother caring for her child.
What is the significance of Moses' comparison in Numbers 11:12?
Moses compares the Israelites' needs to that of a nursing mother, highlighting the emotional and physical demands of leadership. This comparison emphasizes his feelings of inadequacy and the heavy responsibility he feels in guiding the people to the Promised Land.
What does the phrase 'carry them in your arms' mean in Numbers 11:12?
The phrase 'carry them in your arms' symbolizes the nurturing and protective role that Moses feels he must take on as a leader. It reflects his desire to provide care and support for the Israelites, akin to how a parent cares for a child.
How does Numbers 11:12 relate to leadership challenges?
Numbers 11:12 illustrates the challenges leaders face, especially when feeling overwhelmed or unsupported. It serves as a reminder that leaders often need to communicate their struggles and seek help from others, including divine guidance.
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