Old Testament
Numbers 11:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If this is how you're going to treat me, then just kill me now — if I've found any favor with you at all — and spare me from this misery."
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And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.
What Numbers 11:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses expresses deep despair and frustration with the burden of leadership. He feels overwhelmed by the complaints of the Israelites and questions whether he has found favor with God. Moses is so distressed that he asks God to end his life rather than continue to endure the misery he feels. This moment highlights the emotional toll that leadership can take and the struggle of feeling inadequate in fulfilling responsibilities. Moses' plea reveals his vulnerability and the weight of his role as a leader, showing that even great leaders can experience moments of doubt and despair. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking God's support and guidance in times of difficulty, as Moses turns to God in his moment of crisis, demonstrating a reliance on divine help amidst human struggles.
How to apply Numbers 11:15 to your life
When faced with overwhelming responsibilities, it's important to acknowledge our feelings of despair and seek support. Like Moses, we can turn to God in prayer, expressing our struggles and asking for strength. This reminds us that it's okay to feel vulnerable and that seeking help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness.
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 11:15 mean?
In Numbers 11:15, Moses expresses his deep frustration and despair over the burdens of leadership. He feels overwhelmed by the complaints of the Israelites and questions whether he has found favor with God, even asking God to end his life to escape his misery.
What is the meaning of 'wretchedness' in Numbers 11:15?
In this verse, 'wretchedness' refers to Moses' feelings of deep distress and misery due to the overwhelming responsibilities he faces as a leader. It highlights his emotional struggle and sense of inadequacy in fulfilling his role.
How does Numbers 11:15 relate to leadership?
Numbers 11:15 shows that even great leaders like Moses can feel overwhelmed and question their abilities. It highlights the importance of acknowledging feelings of despair and seeking support during challenging times.
What can we learn from Moses' plea in Numbers 11:15?
Moses' plea teaches us that it's okay to express our struggles and seek help when we feel overwhelmed. It reminds us to turn to God in prayer for strength and guidance during difficult moments.
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