Old Testament
Numbers 14:34
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You explored the land for 40 days, so you will bear your iniquities for 40 years — one year for each day. Then you will know my breach of promise.
Compare translations
After the number of the days in which ye searched the land, even forty days, each day for a year, shall ye bear your iniquities, even forty years, and ye shall know my breach of promise.
What Numbers 14:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the Israelites after they explored the Promised Land for 40 days. Because they doubted His promise and rebelled against Him, God decrees that they will wander in the wilderness for 40 years—one year for each day they spent scouting the land. This punishment serves as a consequence for their lack of faith and disobedience. The phrase "you will know my breach of promise" indicates that they will experience the reality of their choices and the seriousness of their rebellion against God. This period in the wilderness is not just a punishment but also a time for reflection and growth, as they learn to trust God and His plans for them. Ultimately, this verse highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God, as well as the consequences of turning away from His guidance.
How to apply Numbers 14:34 to your life
This verse reminds us that our choices have consequences, especially when we doubt God's promises. It encourages us to trust in God's plans and remain faithful, even when faced with challenges. Reflecting on our actions can lead to growth and a deeper relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Refuses to Enter the Land (Numbers 14:1–45)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 14:34
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 14:34
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 14:34 mean about the 40 years of wandering?
In Numbers 14:34, God tells the Israelites that because they spent 40 days exploring the Promised Land and doubted His promise, they will wander in the wilderness for 40 years—one year for each day. This punishment reflects the seriousness of their rebellion and lack of faith. It serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, particularly when we turn away from God's guidance.
Why did God punish the Israelites for their lack of faith?
God punished the Israelites for their lack of faith because they doubted His ability to deliver them into the Promised Land despite witnessing His miracles. Their rebellion and fear led them to spread negativity and discourage others, which prompted God to decree a period of wandering. This punishment was not only a consequence but also an opportunity for them to learn trust and obedience to God.
What does 'you will know my breach of promise' mean?
The phrase 'you will know my breach of promise' signifies that the Israelites will experience the consequences of their disbelief and rebellion. It highlights that their lack of faith resulted in a delay of God's promises. Through their wandering, they will come to understand the seriousness of their choices and the importance of trusting in God's plans.
How can we apply Numbers 14:34 to our lives today?
Numbers 14:34 teaches us that our choices have significant consequences, especially when we doubt God's promises. It encourages us to trust in God's plans and remain faithful, even during difficult times. By reflecting on our actions and their outcomes, we can grow in our relationship with God and learn to rely on His guidance rather than our fears.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.