Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Numbers 20:5

And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink.

Numbers 20:5 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse reflects the dissatisfaction and resentment of the Israelites towards Moses and God. The Israelites were brought out of Egypt with the promise of a land flowing with milk and honey, a land of abundance and prosperity. However, as they wandered in the desert, they found themselves in a barren and desolate place with no seed, fruit, or water. The Israelites questioned the decision to leave Egypt, where they had at least basic necessities, and doubted the promises made to them. They expressed their discontentment, contrasting their current situation with the expectations they had been given. This verse serves as a reminder of the struggles and doubts the Israelites faced during their journey towards the Promised Land, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Numbers, the Israelites are expressing their frustration and despair at their current circumstances. They question why God has brought them out of Egypt only to lead them to a desolate place without the necessary resources for survival. The mention of the absence of essential crops like seed, figs, vines, and pomegranates emphasizes the lack of sustenance in their surroundings. Additionally, the lack of water is a crucial component of their distress, highlighting the harsh conditions they are facing.

From a theological perspective, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trust and faith in God's plan, even when faced with hardship. The Israelites' doubt and complaints reflect a lack of faith in God's provision and guidance. It also illustrates the consequences of disobedience and lack of faith, as the Israelites' journey through the wilderness was extended due to their doubt and disobedience. This verse can be seen as a lesson in perseverance, faith, and reliance on God's providence, even in the face of adversity.

Numbers 20:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink.

World English Bible

Why have you made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in to this evil place? It is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink.”

Douay-Rheims

Why have you made us come up out of Egypt, and have brought us into this wretched place which cannot be sowed, nor bringeth forth figs, nor vines, nor pomegranates, neither is there any water to drink?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Wherefore nowe haue yee made vs to come vp from Egypt, to bring vs into this miserable place, which is no place of seede, nor figges, nor vines, nor pomegranates? neither is there any water to drinke.