Numbers 14:36
And the men, which Moses sent to search the land, who returned, and made all the congregation to murmur against him, by bringing up a slander upon the land,
Numbers 14:36 · King James Version
Meaning
After Moses sent men to explore the land of Canaan, they returned with a negative report that caused the entire congregation to murmur and complain against him. The spies' negative report led to doubts and fear among the Israelites, causing them to lose faith in God's promise to give them the land. The slander brought back by the men painted a bleak picture of the land, undermining the confidence of the Israelites and questioning Moses' leadership. This episode serves as a cautionary tale about the power of negative words and the impact they can have on a community. It also highlights the importance of having faith and trust in God's promises, even when faced with challenges or obstacles. By focusing on the negative report instead of trusting God's plan, the Israelites missed out on the blessings and opportunities that awaited them in the promised land.
Theological Overview
From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the consequences of spreading false information and inciting doubt among the people. The men sent by Moses to explore the land were entrusted with a mission to bring back an honest report for the Israelites. However, upon their return, they not only spread negative rumors about the land but also led the congregation to murmur against Moses. This act of slander resulted in a lack of faith and trust in God's promise to deliver the land to the Israelites. The word "slander" used in this verse is significant as it reflects the seriousness of spreading lies and deceit. In a deeper word study, the Hebrew word for "slander" used here emphasizes the destructive nature of false accusations and their ability to undermine the faith of God's people. Ultimately, this passage serves as a cautionary tale about the power of words and the importance of speaking truth, especially when it comes to matters concerning God's promises and plans.
Numbers 14:36 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the men, whom Moses sent to spy out the land, who returned, and made all the congregation to murmur against him, by bringing up an evil report against the land,
World English Bible
The men, whom Moses sent to spy out the land, who returned, and made all the congregation to murmur against him, by bringing up an evil report against the land,
Douay-Rheims
Therefore all the men, whom Moses had sent to view the land, and who at their return had made the whole multitude to murmur against him, speaking ill of the land that it was naught,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the men which Moses had sent to search the land (which, when they came againe, made all the people to murmure against him, and brought vp a slander vpon the lande)