Old Testament
Numbers 11:26
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Two men had stayed behind in the camp — one named Eldad and the other Medad. They were on the list of chosen elders but hadn't gone out to the Tent. Yet the Spirit rested on them too, and they prophesied right there in the camp.
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But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.
What Numbers 11:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about two men named Eldad and Medad who were chosen as elders but did not go to the Tent of Meeting where the Spirit of God was being poured out. Despite their absence, the Spirit still came upon them, and they began to prophesy in the camp. This shows that God's Spirit is not limited to specific locations or circumstances. It emphasizes that God's calling and empowerment can reach individuals wherever they are, even outside the expected settings. Eldad and Medad's experience illustrates that God's work can happen in unexpected ways and places, highlighting the inclusivity of God's Spirit. Their prophesying in the camp also serves as a reminder that spiritual gifts are not confined to a select few but can be given to anyone chosen by God, regardless of their physical location or participation in traditional religious practices.
How to apply Numbers 11:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God's Spirit can work through anyone, anywhere. We should not limit our understanding of where and how God can use us. Embrace opportunities to serve and share God's message, even in unexpected situations or locations.
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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Keep studying Numbers 11:26
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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 11:26 mean?
Numbers 11:26 describes how two men, Eldad and Medad, who were chosen as elders, received the Spirit of God and prophesied in the camp despite not being present at the Tent of Meeting. This illustrates that God's Spirit can empower individuals regardless of their location.
Who are Eldad and Medad in Numbers 11:26?
Eldad and Medad are two chosen elders mentioned in Numbers 11:26 who remained in the camp while others went to the Tent of Meeting. They experienced the Spirit of God and prophesied, showing that God's calling can reach anyone.
What themes are present in Numbers 11:26?
Key themes in Numbers 11:26 include the inclusivity of God's Spirit, the unexpected empowerment of individuals, the distribution of spiritual gifts, and the importance of leadership and obedience to God's calling.
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