Old Testament
Numbers 11:31
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A wind sent by the LORD swept in from the sea, driving quail into the area around the camp. They covered the ground about a day's journey in every direction, piled up about 2 cubits deep.
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And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day’s journey on this side, and as it were a day’s journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high upon the face of the earth.
What Numbers 11:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God responds to the complaints of the Israelites about their food in the wilderness. He sends a strong wind that brings a massive number of quail from the sea, covering the ground around their camp. The quail are so plentiful that they form a pile about two cubits deep, which is roughly three feet. This miraculous provision demonstrates God's power and care for His people, showing that He can provide for their needs even in the most challenging circumstances. The quail are not just a small supply; they stretch out for a day's journey in every direction, indicating an overwhelming abundance. This event highlights both God's ability to provide and the Israelites' ongoing struggle with trust and gratitude, as they often complained despite witnessing His miracles.
How to apply Numbers 11:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's provision, especially during difficult times. Just as He provided for the Israelites, we can rely on Him to meet our needs. It reminds us to be grateful and to recognize the blessings we often take for granted.
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 11:31
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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 11:31 mean?
Numbers 11:31 describes how God provided quail to the Israelites in the wilderness after they complained about their food. A strong wind brought a vast number of quail, covering the ground around their camp, demonstrating God's ability to meet their needs.
What is the significance of the quail in Numbers 11:31?
The quail in Numbers 11:31 symbolize God's miraculous provision for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. This event highlights God's care for His people and serves as a reminder of His power to provide abundantly.
What does the phrase 'two cubits deep' mean in Numbers 11:31?
The phrase 'two cubits deep' in Numbers 11:31 indicates that the quail piled up to about three feet high on the ground. This emphasizes the overwhelming abundance of quail that God provided for the Israelites.
How does Numbers 11:31 relate to trusting God?
Numbers 11:31 encourages trust in God's provision, as it shows that He can meet our needs even in difficult situations. It serves as a reminder to be grateful for the blessings we receive, just as the Israelites were provided for despite their complaints.
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