And when we cried unto the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent an angel, and hath brought us forth out of Egypt: and, behold, we are in Kadesh, a city in the uttermost of thy border:

NUMBERS 20:16KJV
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Numbers 20:16 (KJV)

What does Numbers 20:16 mean?

Numbers 20:16 says that when the Israelites cried out to the LORD for help, God listened to them, sent an angel, and brought them out of Egypt. Now, the Israelites are in Kadesh, a city at the edge of another nation's territory.

In this verse, Moses is speaking to the king of Edom, explaining Israel’s history and current situation. Moses reminds Edom that God responded to Israel’s desperate prayers (using the word “cried”) by sending an “angel” to lead them out of slavery in Egypt, and now they are at Edom’s border, seeking passage.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 20:16

  • “cried” (צָעַק, tsa‘aq): This word often means a cry for help in distress, showing the Israelites’ desperation and dependence on God.
  • “angel” (מַלְאָךְ, mal’akh): This word can mean “messenger” and is sometimes used for a supernatural being. Here, it likely refers to God’s special guidance or a divine messenger leading Israel out of Egypt.
  • “uttermost” (קָצֶה, qatseh) and “border” (גְּבוּל, gevul): These words together stress that Kadesh is right at the very edge of Edom’s territory, highlighting how close Israel is to entering another land.

Why Numbers 20:16 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Israel’s escape from Egypt was not by their own strength but because God heard their plea and acted on their behalf.
  • By mentioning the “angel,” Moses points to God’s direct involvement and care, which would remind Edom of Israel’s special relationship with God.
  • The verse sets up the request that follows, showing Israel is not invading but asking for passage after a long journey guided by God.

Where else these words appear

“Kadesh” Hebrew H6946 · used in 18 verses

  • Genesis 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.
  • Numbers 20:14 And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us:
  • Deuteronomy 32:51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah-Kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel.

“cried” Hebrew H6817 · used in 53 verses

  • Genesis 4:10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.
  • Joshua 24:7 And when they cried unto the LORD, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians, and brought the sea upon them, and covered them; and your eyes have seen what I have done in Egypt: and ye dwelt in the wilderness a long season.
  • 2 Kings 8:5 And it came to pass, as he was telling the king how he had restored a dead body to life, that, behold, the woman, whose son he had restored to life, cried to the king for her house and for her land. And Gehazi said, My lord, O king, this is the woman, and this is her son, whom Elisha restored to life.

“uttermost” Hebrew H7097 · used in 87 verses

  • Genesis 8:3 And the waters returned from off the earth continually: and after the end of the hundred and fifty days the waters were abated.
  • Joshua 4:19 And the people came up out of Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and encamped in Gilgal, in the east border of Jericho.
  • Psalms 46:9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.