Old Testament

Numbers 20:14

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

At a Glance

In this verse, Moses is reaching out to the king of Edom to request passage through his territory.

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

From Kadesh, Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom with this message: "Your brother Israel says: You know about all the hardships we've been through.

KJVKing James Version

And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Moses is reaching out to the king of Edom to request passage through his territory. He identifies Israel as the brother of Edom, emphasizing their shared ancestry and history. Moses reminds the king of the difficulties the Israelites have faced during their journey, which includes slavery in Egypt and the hardships of wandering in the desert. By framing the message this way, Moses hopes to appeal to the king's sense of kinship and compassion. The use of 'brother' signifies a connection that goes beyond mere political boundaries, suggesting that they should help one another in times of need. This moment highlights the importance of relationships and the need for support during challenging times. It also sets the stage for the Israelites' journey as they seek to enter the Promised Land, showing their reliance on others for assistance and cooperation. Explore related fellowship.

How to apply Numbers 20:14 to your life

This verse teaches us the importance of reaching out for help during difficult times. Just as Moses appealed to the king of Edom, we should not hesitate to communicate our needs to others. Building relationships and fostering a sense of community can lead to support and assistance when we face challenges in our lives.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 20:14 mean?

In Numbers 20:14, Moses sends a message to the king of Edom, asking for permission to pass through his land. He emphasizes their shared ancestry as brothers, highlighting the hardships the Israelites have faced to appeal for compassion and assistance.

What is the significance of Moses calling Israel 'brother' in Numbers 20:14?

Moses refers to Israel as 'brother' to emphasize the familial connection between the Israelites and the Edomites. This term is meant to foster a sense of kinship and encourage the king of Edom to help the Israelites during their difficult journey.

What hardships does Moses refer to in Numbers 20:14?

In this verse, Moses refers to the various struggles the Israelites have endured, including their slavery in Egypt and the challenges faced during their time in the desert. These hardships are meant to evoke sympathy from the king of Edom.

What is the main request in Numbers 20:14?

The main request in Numbers 20:14 is for the king of Edom to allow the Israelites to pass through his territory. Moses seeks to gain safe passage for his people as they journey to the Promised Land.

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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