Numbers 11:13 meaning

Moses faced a tumultuous moment when the people of Israel, increasingly discontented in the wilderness, cried out for meat, reminiscing about their time in Egypt. His frustration peaked as he felt overwhelmed by their complaints, perceiving them as a burden that was too heavy to bear. The weight of leadership and the unyielding demands of the murmuring Israelites led him to question, somewhat despairingly, how he could possibly provide for such a vast multitude. This moment of doubt reveals not only his human limitations but also a deeper struggle with the expectations placed upon him as God's appointed leader.

In responding to Moses' desperate question, various interpretations suggest a mix of accountability and vulnerability as he grapples with his own inadequacies. The verse encapsulates a profound cry of despair, one that resonates throughout both ancient and modern contexts. The pivotal message is a reminder that even leaders wrestle with doubt, emphasizing the importance of dependence on God's strength rather than relying solely on human capability. The scripture reads: “Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? for they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat.” (Numbers 11:13)

This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]

Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:

  • Numbers 11:10-15 meaning. Verses 10 – 15 contain what some have called "Moses’ Lament." Moses heard, and probably was the recipient of, the never-ending griping of the people in the camp about having only manna to eat. In verses 11 – 15, Moses took his impassioned complaint to the LORD. Moses’ issue with the LORD involved him being chosen by the LORD to be the leader of these miserable, ungrateful, and demanding people.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Deuteronomy 18:1-8 meaning. Having dealt with the principles concerning a king, Moses then turns to another source of authority in the Promised Land when he instructs the Israelites on how the Levitical priests were to be supported. Since the Levitical priests would minister before the LORD at the central sanctuary, they were not supposed to do any secular job. They were to depend upon the dues and offerings of the other tribes.
  • Joel 3:1-3 meaning. When the LORD restores the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, He will judge the Gentile nations for the way they treated His covenant people.
  • Numbers 3:11-13 meaning. The LORD declared that the Levites were to be set apart to become His possession instead of the firstborn.
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