Translations
Original
Notes
The Israelites' constant complaining frustrated Moses, leading him to express his own complaints to God. With extreme sarcasm, Moses reminded God that he had not wanted this responsibility (compare Exodus 4:10). Israel became such a burden that Moses wished God would do him the favor of ending his life (compare Job 6:9).
Moses' complaint was acceptable, unlike the people's complaints, because he sought the Lord instead of longing for Egypt's pleasures.
Israel had not given up the attitude that led to judgment at Taberah (11:1–3). At Taberah, the people complained, and the Lord sent fire among them.
Soon after, they joined the foreign rabble (a mixed group of non-Israelites who had left Egypt with them) in craving the foods of Egypt. They longed for the fish, vegetables, and other foods they had known there.
In doing this, they forgot the suffering and slavery they had experienced in Egypt. They remembered the food but ignored the hardship.
This is one of many occasions in the wilderness when Israel was disobedient to the Lord.
Glossary
Topics
Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Kibrothhattaavah: Flesh Promised Manna: The Israelites: Punished for Despising Moses: Character of Complainings of Moses: Character of Impatience of Murmuring: Moses Prayer: Answered: Moses, Concerning the Complaint of the Israelites for Meat Presumption: Moses, in Rebuking Jehovah Trouble: Food