Numbers 14:35
I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.
Numbers 14:35 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Bible, God is expressing his anger towards the Israelites who have rebelled against Him. The "evil congregation" mentioned refers to those who have turned away from God and His commandments. God declares that he will bring destruction upon this rebellious group, causing them to be consumed and die in the wilderness where they are gathered. This serves as a warning to those who defy God and choose to follow their own ways instead of His. The wilderness in this context symbolizes a place of punishment and divine retribution for their sins. This verse highlights the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of staying faithful and obedient to His will. It serves as a reminder of the gravity of disobedience and the severity of God's judgment towards those who choose to go against Him.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Numbers 14:35, the theological interpretation revolves around the consequence of disobedience towards the Lord. The Lord declares that he will bring judgment upon the evil congregation that has gathered against him in the wilderness. The promise of consuming and death serves as a stark reminder of the severity of turning away from God and rebelling against his commands. This passage underscores the importance of faithfulness and obedience to the Lord, as well as the consequences of straying from his path. Additionally, the language used in this verse highlights the Lord's sovereignty and power to fulfill his word. Through studying the word "consume" and "die" in this context, one can further understand the gravity of the judgment that was to come upon the congregation. Overall, this verse serves as a warning against rebellion and a call to remain steadfast in following the will of the Lord.
Numbers 14:35 in other translations
American Standard Version
I, Jehovah, have spoken, surely this will I do unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.
World English Bible
I, Yahweh, have spoken. I will surely do this to all this evil congregation, who are gathered together against me. In this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.”
Douay-Rheims
For as I have spoken, so will I do to all this wicked multitude, that hath risen up together against me: in this wilderness shall it faint away and die.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I the Lord haue said, Certainely I will doe so to all this wicked company, that are gathered together against me: for in this wildernesse they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.