Old Testament
Numbers 25:16
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, God speaks directly to Moses, indicating a moment of divine communication.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Then the LORD said to Moses,
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God speaks directly to Moses, indicating a moment of divine communication. This highlights the importance of Moses as a leader and mediator between God and the Israelites. The context of this chapter involves the Israelites' struggles with idolatry and immorality, particularly with the Moabite women. God's instruction to Moses serves as a reminder of His authority and the need for obedience among His people. It emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the consequences that arise from turning away from God's commands. This moment sets the stage for further instructions on how to deal with the situation at hand, showcasing God's desire for His people to remain faithful and pure. The direct speech from God also underscores the personal relationship He has with Moses, which is a model for how believers today can seek to hear and follow God's guidance in their lives. Explore related prayer.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 25:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to listen for God's guidance in our lives. Just as Moses received direct instructions, we too can seek clarity through prayer and scripture. It reminds us of the importance of remaining faithful and avoiding influences that lead us away from our values.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 25:16 mean?
Numbers 25:16 shows God speaking directly to Moses, emphasizing Moses' role as a leader and mediator. This moment highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, especially in the context of the Israelites' struggles with idolatry.
How does Numbers 25:16 relate to obedience?
In Numbers 25:16, God's instruction to Moses serves as a reminder of the need for obedience among the Israelites. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the consequences that arise from turning away from God's commands.
What themes are present in Numbers 25:16?
Key themes in Numbers 25:16 include divine communication, leadership, obedience, sin and consequences, faithfulness, and God's authority. These themes reflect the broader context of the Israelites' challenges and God's desire for their purity.

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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