Old Testament
Numbers 20:6
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Moses and Aaron walked away from the crowd to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and fell facedown on the ground. Then the glory of the LORD appeared to them.
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And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto them.
What Numbers 20:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses and Aaron, the leaders of the Israelites, respond to the people's complaints and frustrations by seeking God's presence. They leave the crowd and go to the Tent of Meeting, a sacred place where they could communicate with God. By falling facedown, they show humility and reverence, acknowledging their dependence on God for guidance and help. This act of worship is significant, as it demonstrates their recognition of God's authority and glory. The appearance of the glory of the LORD signifies God's response to their earnest plea for help and direction. This moment highlights the importance of seeking God in times of crisis and the need for leaders to turn to Him for wisdom and strength. It also emphasizes the relationship between God and His chosen leaders, showing that God is present and responsive when His people earnestly seek Him.
How to apply Numbers 20:6 to your life
In our own lives, we can learn from Moses and Aaron's example of seeking God in difficult times. When faced with challenges, we should take time to pray and seek God's guidance. Humbling ourselves before God can lead to clarity and strength, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.
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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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 20:6 teach about leadership?
Numbers 20:6 illustrates the importance of seeking God's guidance as a leader. Moses and Aaron, faced with the people's complaints, demonstrate humility by turning to God in prayer. This act shows that true leadership involves recognizing one's dependence on divine wisdom and strength, especially in challenging situations.
Why did Moses and Aaron fall facedown in Numbers 20:6?
Moses and Aaron fell facedown as a sign of humility and reverence before God. This posture reflects their acknowledgment of God's authority and their need for His guidance. It emphasizes the importance of approaching God with respect and submission, particularly when seeking answers or direction in times of crisis.
What is the significance of the glory of the LORD appearing in this verse?
The appearance of the glory of the LORD in Numbers 20:6 signifies God's response to the earnest prayers of Moses and Aaron. It highlights God's presence and willingness to guide His leaders when they seek Him sincerely. This moment reassures believers that God is attentive to their needs and is ready to provide support and direction.
How can we apply the lessons from Numbers 20:6 in our lives?
We can apply the lessons from Numbers 20:6 by prioritizing prayer and seeking God's guidance during difficult times. Just as Moses and Aaron turned to God in humility, we should also approach God with reverence, recognizing our need for His wisdom. This practice can lead to clarity, strength, and a deeper relationship with God.
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