Old Testament

Numbers 21:6

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, the Israelites faced a severe consequence for their complaints and lack of faith in God during their journey in the wilderness.

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

So the LORD sent venomous snakes among the people. The snakes bit them, and many Israelites died.

KJVKing James Version

And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the Israelites faced a severe consequence for their complaints and lack of faith in God during their journey in the wilderness. The 'venomous snakes' or 'fiery serpents' symbolize the dangers that arise from turning away from God. The bites from these snakes caused many deaths among the people, illustrating the seriousness of their rebellion. This event serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience to God. The Israelites' suffering was a direct result of their actions, prompting them to recognize their need for repentance and divine help. This narrative highlights God's justice but also sets the stage for His mercy, as it leads to a solution for their plight later in the chapter. The imagery of the snakes can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the healing that would come through faith, as God provides a way for the people to be saved from their afflictions. Explore related judgment.

How to apply Numbers 21:6 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes. Just as the Israelites faced consequences for their complaints, we should strive to maintain a grateful heart and trust in God's plan. When we stray, we must seek repentance and turn back to God for healing and restoration.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 21:6 mean?

Numbers 21:6 describes how God sent venomous snakes to punish the Israelites for their complaints and lack of faith. The deaths that resulted from the snake bites highlight the serious consequences of their rebellion against God.

What is the significance of the 'fiery serpents' in Numbers 21:6?

The 'fiery serpents' symbolize the dangers that arise from turning away from God. Their bites caused many deaths, illustrating the severe consequences of sin and the need for repentance.

How does Numbers 21:6 relate to repentance?

The suffering caused by the snake bites prompted the Israelites to recognize their need for repentance and seek God's help. This illustrates that acknowledging our wrongs is essential for healing and restoration.

What themes are present in Numbers 21:6?

Key themes in Numbers 21:6 include divine judgment, the consequences of sin, the importance of repentance, God's mercy, and the connection between faith and healing.

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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