Old Testament
Numbers 11:32
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The people were on their feet all that day, all night, and all the next day gathering quail. The person who gathered the least still collected 10 homers. They spread the quail out all around the camp to dry.
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And the people stood up all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and they gathered the quails: he that gathered least gathered ten homers: and they spread them all abroad for themselves round about the camp.
What Numbers 11:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are depicted as being very eager to gather quail, which God provided in response to their complaints about food. They worked tirelessly for three days, showing their determination and hunger. The mention of 'ten homers' indicates a significant amount of quail, even for the least successful gatherer. This illustrates the abundance of God's provision. After gathering, they spread the quail around the camp to dry, indicating preparation for future meals. This scene highlights both the people's desperation for food and God's willingness to provide for their needs, even when they grumbled. It serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and trust in God's provision, rather than succumbing to complaints and dissatisfaction.
How to apply Numbers 11:32 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate the blessings we receive, even when we may feel dissatisfied. It reminds us to trust in God's provision and to be diligent in our efforts, knowing that He provides abundantly for our needs when we seek Him sincerely.
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 11:32
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 11:32 mean?
Numbers 11:32 describes the Israelites gathering quail provided by God after they complained about their food. It highlights their eagerness and determination, as they worked tirelessly for three days to collect a significant amount of quail, illustrating God's abundant provision.
What is the significance of 'ten homers' in Numbers 11:32?
The mention of 'ten homers' in Numbers 11:32 indicates a large quantity of quail, even for the least successful gatherer. This emphasizes the abundance of food provided by God in response to the Israelites' complaints.
How does Numbers 11:32 relate to trust in God?
Numbers 11:32 shows that despite the Israelites' complaints, God provided abundantly for their needs. This serves as a reminder to trust in God's provision and to appreciate the blessings we receive.
What lesson can we learn from Numbers 11:32?
From Numbers 11:32, we learn the importance of recognizing and appreciating God's blessings, even in times of dissatisfaction. It encourages us to trust in His provision and to be diligent in our efforts.
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