Numbers 20:7 (KJV)

What does Numbers 20:7 mean?

Numbers 20:7 describes a moment when the LORD speaks directly to Moses, preparing to give him instructions. This verse marks the beginning of a new message from God to Moses in the unfolding story.

In this setting, the people of Israel are in the wilderness, facing a crisis because they have no water. The verse signals that God is about to address this problem by speaking to Moses, who is the leader and mediator for the people. The focus here is on the direct communication between God and Moses, setting the stage for what follows.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 20:7

• LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God used throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing God's covenant relationship with Israel. Its use here highlights the authority and faithfulness of the One giving the instructions.
• spake (דָּבַר, dabar): This Hebrew word means "to speak" or "to declare." It often carries the sense of a formal or weighty communication, suggesting that what follows is important and authoritative.
• Moses (מֹשֶׁה, Mosheh): The use of Moses' name reminds the reader that he is the chosen leader and intermediary between God and the people.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This word introduces the content of God's message, signaling that specific instructions or information are about to be given.

Why Numbers 20:7 matters

• This verse makes it clear that the instructions Moses is about to receive come directly from God, not from Moses' own initiative or ideas.
• By highlighting the LORD's personal involvement, the verse emphasizes the seriousness and authority of what is about to happen, especially given the people's desperate situation.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by preparing the reader for the significant events that follow, including Moses' actions and the consequences for both him and the people.