And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

NUMBERS 20:7KJV
Know the Bible

Numbers 20:7 (KJV)

What does Numbers 20:7 mean?

Numbers 20:7 introduces the LORD’s response to a crisis over water. The people have complained, and Moses and Aaron have gone to the entrance of the meeting tent. Now the LORD addresses Moses, preparing him to receive instructions for what comes next.

The words “saying” lead directly into those instructions in verse 8. The verse marks the change from the people’s complaint to the LORD’s directions for Moses.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 20:7

  • “LORD” — יהוה (YHWH): This is the personal name of Israel’s God. The KJV uses capital letters in “LORD” to represent this name.

Why Numbers 20:7 matters

  • The instructions that follow are presented as coming from the LORD, rather than as Moses’ own plan. Verse 7 identifies the speaker before the commands begin.
  • Moses is the person addressed, even though Aaron is also involved in the scene. Verse 8 tells Moses to take the rod and gather the people with Aaron.