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Numbers 16:14

Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up.

Numbers 16:14 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up." is a powerful statement made by a group of individuals expressing their discontent with their current situation. The phrase "land flowing with milk and honey" is often used in the Bible to describe a land of abundance and prosperity promised to the Israelites. In this context, the people are lamenting that they have not been led to such a land, nor have they been given inheritance of fields and vineyards. They are questioning whether their leaders intend to blind them to the opportunities for a better future. Despite their frustration, they declare that they will not follow the leadership that has brought them to this point. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership and the consequences of not fulfilling promises made to the people.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Numbers, the Israelites are expressing frustration and disappointment with their current situation. The phrase "a land that floweth with milk and honey" is a common biblical expression used to describe a place of abundance and prosperity promised to the Israelites by God. It signifies a place with an abundance of resources and blessings. When the Israelites lament that they have not been brought to such a land, they are expressing their discontent with their current circumstances.

The mention of fields and vineyards as inheritance reflects the Israelites' desire for a homeland where they can settle and cultivate the land. In the context of the verse, this longing for a land of prosperity emphasizes their sense of deprivation and loss. The Israelites feel that they have been denied the blessings promised to them by God, leading them to question whether God intends to further harm them by allowing their enemies to prevail.

Furthermore, the phrase "wilt thou put out the eyes of these men?" can be seen as a metaphorical plea for protection and guidance from God. The Israelites' refusal to come up implies a lack of trust in God's plan, as they are hesitant to follow His lead. Overall, this verse highlights the Israelites' struggle with faith and their disillusionment in the face of adversity.

Numbers 16:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey, nor given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up.

World English Bible

Moreover you haven’t brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey, nor given us inheritance of fields and vineyards. Will you put out the eyes of these men? We won’t come up.”

Douay-Rheims

Thou hast brought us indeed into a land that floweth with rivers of milk and honey, and hast given us possessions of fields and vineyards; wilt thou also pull out our eyes? We will not come.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Also thou hast not brought vs vnto a land that floweth with milke and honie, neither giuen vs inheritance of fieldes and vineyardes: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come vp.