Old Testament
Numbers 25:14
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The Israelite man who was killed along with the Midianite woman was Zimri son of Salu, a leader of a prominent family in the tribe of Simeon.
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Now the name of the Israelite that was slain, even that was slain with the Midianitish woman, was Zimri, the son of Salu, a prince of a chief house among the Simeonites.
What Numbers 25:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about Zimri, an Israelite who was killed for his actions involving a Midianite woman. Zimri was not just any Israelite; he was a leader from a prominent family in the tribe of Simeon. His story highlights the serious consequences of disobedience to God's commands, particularly regarding intermarriage with foreign nations that worshipped other gods. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God's covenant and the dangers of compromising one's beliefs. Zimri's actions were seen as a direct challenge to God's authority, leading to severe repercussions for both him and the Midianite woman. This narrative emphasizes the need for accountability within the community and the importance of upholding moral standards, especially among leaders who influence others.
How to apply Numbers 25:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our choices and their impact on our faith. It reminds us to be vigilant about our relationships and influences, ensuring they align with our values. Upholding our beliefs is crucial, especially in leadership roles.
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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 25:14 mean?
Numbers 25:14 identifies Zimri, an Israelite leader from the tribe of Simeon, who was killed for his involvement with a Midianite woman. This verse illustrates the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, particularly regarding intermarriage with those who worship other gods.
Who was Zimri in Numbers 25:14?
Zimri was the son of Salu and a prominent leader in the tribe of Simeon. His actions, which led to his death, serve as a warning about the dangers of compromising one's faith and the serious repercussions of disobedience.
What themes are present in Numbers 25:14?
The themes in Numbers 25:14 include disobedience, consequences, leadership, faithfulness, and moral standards. This verse emphasizes the need for accountability and the importance of upholding one's beliefs, especially among leaders.
What lesson can we learn from Numbers 25:14?
From Numbers 25:14, we learn the importance of making choices that align with our values and the impact of those choices on our faith. It encourages vigilance in our relationships and influences, especially in leadership roles.
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