Old Testament
Numbers 11:4
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The foreigners who had joined them began craving other food, and soon the Israelites were weeping too, saying, "Who's going to give us meat to eat?
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And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?
What Numbers 11:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a group of foreigners who had joined the Israelites in their journey through the wilderness. They began to crave different food, which sparked a similar desire among the Israelites. This craving led them to weep and complain about their diet, specifically longing for meat. The situation highlights a moment of discontent and longing for the comforts of their previous life in Egypt, where they had a variety of foods. The Israelites' reaction shows how easily people can be influenced by those around them, leading to collective dissatisfaction. Instead of trusting in God's provision, they focused on their cravings and desires, forgetting the miracles they had witnessed. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and trust in God's plans, even when circumstances seem challenging or unfulfilling.
How to apply Numbers 11:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of our desires and the influence of those around us. Instead of giving in to cravings or complaints, we should focus on gratitude for what we have and trust in God's provision. Reflecting on our blessings can help combat feelings of discontent.
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 11:4
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 11:4 mean?
Numbers 11:4 describes how the mixed group of foreigners with the Israelites began to crave different food, leading the Israelites to also complain about their diet and long for meat. This reflects a moment of dissatisfaction and forgetfulness regarding God's provision.
What is the significance of the 'mixed multitude' in Numbers 11:4?
The 'mixed multitude' refers to the foreigners who joined the Israelites during their exodus. Their cravings influenced the Israelites, highlighting how external influences can lead to collective discontent.
What does the phrase 'fell a lusting' mean in Numbers 11:4?
The phrase 'fell a lusting' indicates a strong desire or craving for something, in this case, food. It shows how intense longing can lead to complaints and dissatisfaction.
What lesson can we learn from Numbers 11:4?
Numbers 11:4 teaches the importance of gratitude and trust in God's provision. It reminds us to be aware of our desires and the impact of those around us on our feelings of contentment.
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