Old Testament
Numbers 21:6
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So the LORD sent venomous snakes among the people. The snakes bit them, and many Israelites died.
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And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.
What Numbers 21:6 means
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.
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
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Bronze Serpent (Numbers 21:4–9)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Numbers 21:6
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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 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.
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