Numbers 14:20

God’s Forgiveness and Judgment · Numbers 14:20–35
Read Numbers 14

Translations

Modern
“I have pardoned them as you requested,” the LORD replied.
Traditional
And the Lord said, I have pardoned according to thy word:
Literal
And YHWH said, “I have pardoned according to your word,
Latin
Dixitque Dominus: Dimisi juxta verbum tuum.

Original

Hebrew
English
“I have pardoned them as you requested,” the LORD replied.

Notes

Because Moses argued with God, God forgave Israel's rebellion and did not destroy them. Yet, the stubborn generation of adults would never see the promised land.

Moses spoke to God on behalf of his people. He reminded God that his reputation related to Israel's. He pleaded for God to continue his faithfulness.

The people rejected the testimony of the faithful spies, Joshua and Caleb. Then rebellion spread throughout the community. Moses intervened to save Israel from total destruction. Those who disobeyed God died during a 40-year journey in the wilderness.

Twelve spies explored the fertile land of Canaan and found strong enemies defending it. Earlier chapters show Israel's disobedience, hinting at future failures. The Israelites did not have the obedience, courage, or faith to capture the land. So, the Lord made them spend 40 years in the Wilderness of Sinai. That generation did not receive their inheritance in the promised land.

Theme notes and profiles

Caleb Joshua Moses God Protects His Servant

Parallels

Deuteronomy 1:34–40

Glossary

Deuteronomy, Book of Numbers, Book of Remnant Wilderness Wanderings Wrath of God

Topics

God: Mercy of Intercession of Man with God Intercession: Answered: when the People Complained on Account of the Report of the Spies Israel: Return to the Wilderness, where They Remain for Thirty Eight Years Israel: The Judgment of God Upon Them in Consequence of Their Unbelief and Complaining Moses: Character of Magnified of God Moses: Character of Unaspiring Pardon: Israelites Sin: Forgiveness of The Theocracy: or Immediate Government by God: Consisted in His: Exercise of the Prerogative of Mercy