Numbers 14:7
And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land.
Numbers 14:7 · King James Version
Meaning
After the twelve spies were sent to explore the land of Canaan, they returned with a report to the congregation of Israel. This verse highlights their positive evaluation of the land they had surveyed. The phrase "exceeding good land" emphasizes the abundance and richness of the land, suggesting that it was a place of great potential and prosperity. The spies were eager to convey this message to the Israelites, likely in an effort to encourage them to have faith in God's promise to give them the land. This verse serves as a reminder of the blessings that awaited the children of Israel if they trusted in the Lord and followed His guidance. It serves as a call to faith and obedience, urging the people to be courageous and take hold of the promise that God had made to them.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse centers around the idea of promise and fulfillment in the Bible. The statement made by the spies to the Israelites emphasizes the goodness and abundance of the land they had explored. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision to His people. The word "exceeding" in the phrase "exceeding good land" highlights the exceptional quality and richness of the land, underscoring God's abundant blessings for His chosen people. As readers engage with this verse, they are encouraged to trust in God's promises and have faith that He will fulfill His plans for them. By studying the context and meaning of the words used in this verse, readers gain insight into the depth and significance of the divine promise of a land flowing with milk and honey.
Numbers 14:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
and they spake unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding good land.
World English Bible
They spoke to all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, “The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceeding good land.
Douay-Rheims
And said to all the multitude of the children of Israel: The land which we have gone round is very good:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And spake vnto all the assemblie of the childre of Israel, saying, The land which we walked through to search it, is a very good lande.