Old Testament
Numbers 20:13
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This is the water of Meribah, because the children of Israel quarreled with the LORD, and he was sanctified among them.
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This is the water of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with the LORD, and he was sanctified in them.
What Numbers 20:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the term "water of Meribah" refers to a specific location where the Israelites had a significant conflict with God. The name Meribah means "quarreling" or "strife," highlighting the tension between the people and their Creator. The Israelites were frustrated and complained about their circumstances, which led to a confrontation with God. Despite their lack of faith and their quarrelsome nature, God still demonstrated His holiness and power by providing water from a rock. This act served to sanctify Him among the people, showing that even in their rebellion, God remained sovereign and worthy of reverence. The verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's holiness, even in difficult situations, and serves as a reminder of the consequences of strife against Him. It illustrates how God can use our struggles to reveal His character and to teach us about trust and obedience.
How to apply Numbers 20:13 to your life
When facing challenges, it's easy to become frustrated and question God's plans. This verse reminds us to approach difficulties with faith rather than quarrel. Trusting in God's provision can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of His holiness.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Moses Strikes the Rock (Numbers 20:1–13)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Numbers 20:13
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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 'water of Meribah' mean in Numbers 20:13?
The 'water of Meribah' refers to a specific location where the Israelites quarreled with God. The name 'Meribah' translates to 'quarreling' or 'strife,' indicating the conflict between the Israelites and the Lord due to their complaints about their circumstances. This event highlights the tension in their relationship with God and serves as a reminder of the consequences of their lack of faith.
Why did the Israelites quarrel with the Lord at Meribah?
The Israelites quarreled with the Lord at Meribah due to their frustration and complaints about their lack of water in the wilderness. Their dissatisfaction led them to challenge God's provision and question His presence among them. This conflict illustrates their struggle with faith and trust in God's plan during difficult times.
How does Numbers 20:13 show God's holiness?
In Numbers 20:13, God's holiness is demonstrated through His response to the Israelites' quarrel. Despite their rebellion and lack of faith, God provided water from a rock, showcasing His power and sovereignty. This act sanctified Him among the people, reminding them of His divine authority and the importance of reverence, even in the face of their struggles.
What lessons can we learn from the conflict at Meribah?
The conflict at Meribah teaches us the importance of approaching challenges with faith rather than frustration. It reminds us that questioning God's plans can lead to strife, while trusting in His provision can foster spiritual growth. The event also emphasizes God's ability to reveal His character through our struggles, encouraging us to seek obedience and trust in His sovereignty.
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