Old Testament

Numbers 11:34

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Numbers 11:34, the Israelites faced severe consequences for their cravings and desires.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

That place was named Kibroth Hattaavah, which means "graves of craving," because that's where they buried the people who had given in to their cravings.

KJVKing James Version

And he called the name of that place Kibrothhattaavah: because there they buried the people that lusted.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 11:34, the Israelites faced severe consequences for their cravings and desires. They had been complaining about their food and longing for the variety they had in Egypt, which led to God sending quail. However, their insatiable desire resulted in a plague that killed many. The name Kibroth Hattaavah, meaning "graves of craving," reflects the tragic outcome of their lust for more than what God provided. This story serves as a warning about the dangers of giving in to our cravings and desires without gratitude for what we have. It highlights the importance of contentment and trusting in God's provision, rather than allowing our desires to lead us away from His will. The burial of those who succumbed to their cravings symbolizes the spiritual death that can result from unchecked desires, reminding us to seek fulfillment in God rather than in fleeting pleasures.

How to apply Numbers 11:34 to your life

This passage encourages us to reflect on our own desires and cravings. Are we seeking fulfillment in things that lead us away from God? We should practice gratitude for what we have and trust that God knows our needs better than we do. Contentment can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 11:34 mean?

Numbers 11:34 refers to the place called Kibroth Hattaavah, meaning 'graves of craving.' It highlights the consequences faced by the Israelites for their excessive desires and complaints about God's provision, leading to their deaths.

What is the meaning of Kibroth Hattaavah in Numbers 11:34?

Kibroth Hattaavah translates to 'graves of craving.' This name signifies the burial site of those who succumbed to their insatiable desires for food, illustrating the dangers of unchecked cravings.

Why did the Israelites die in Numbers 11:34?

The Israelites died because they gave in to their cravings for more food, complaining about what God provided. Their insatiable desires led to a plague, demonstrating the severe consequences of ungratefulness.

What lesson can we learn from Numbers 11:34?

Numbers 11:34 teaches the importance of contentment and gratitude for what we have. It warns against allowing our cravings to lead us away from God's will and highlights the spiritual dangers of unchecked desires.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

The Book of Numbers

Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.

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