Old Testament
Numbers 11:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moses said, "I'm surrounded by 600,000 men on foot, and you're saying you'll give them meat to eat for a whole month?
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And Moses said, The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen; and thou hast said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.
What Numbers 11:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses expresses his disbelief and concern to God about the enormous task of feeding the Israelites, who number around 600,000 men. He highlights the challenge of providing enough meat for such a large group for an entire month. Moses is overwhelmed by the sheer size of the people and questions how God can fulfill this promise. This moment reveals Moses' human limitations and the tension between divine promises and practical realities. It underscores the struggle of faith when faced with seemingly impossible situations. Moses' response reflects a common human reaction when confronted with overwhelming needs and the challenge of trusting in God's provision. This interaction sets the stage for God's response, which demonstrates His power and ability to provide abundantly, even in the face of doubt.
How to apply Numbers 11:21 to your life
When faced with overwhelming challenges, it's important to remember that God is capable of providing for our needs, even when it seems impossible. Like Moses, we may doubt, but we should trust in God's ability to fulfill His promises and provide for us in difficult times.
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 11:21 mean?
In Numbers 11:21, Moses expresses his disbelief about God's promise to provide meat for the Israelites, who number around 600,000 men. He highlights the challenge of feeding such a large group for an entire month, revealing his human limitations and the struggle to trust in God's provision.
What is the significance of Moses' response in Numbers 11:21?
Moses' response in Numbers 11:21 shows his doubt and concern about the feasibility of God's promise. It illustrates the tension between divine promises and practical realities, emphasizing the challenge of faith when faced with overwhelming needs.
What does this verse reveal about faith and doubt?
This verse highlights the struggle between faith and doubt, as Moses questions how God can provide for such a large group. It reflects a common human reaction to overwhelming situations, reminding us that doubt can arise even in the face of divine promises.
How does Numbers 11:21 relate to God's provision?
Numbers 11:21 relates to God's provision by showcasing Moses' concern about feeding the Israelites. Despite his doubts, this moment sets the stage for God's response, which demonstrates His ability to provide abundantly, even when circumstances seem impossible.
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