Definition: And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage from the book of Numbers. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about a group of Israelites being incredibly anxious and desperate to stay with God – especially when they are facing a difficult situation. They're essentially saying, "We don't want to leave you! We need your help more than anything!" Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness…” – This is a plea from Moses. He's telling the people to stay . He’s acknowledging their desperation and expressing worry about them leaving. The word “pray thee” adds a bit of urgency and respectfulness. “…forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness…” – This is the key part. They understand that they are in a challenging situation – likely a time of conflict or difficulty – and they're facing it in the wilderness . "Camp" means they’re gathered together, usually for prayer, worship, or a specific purpose. “…and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.” - This is where it gets powerful. It’s a very unusual and symbolic phrase. “Eyes” represents judgment, perspective, and perhaps even the ability to see things clearly. So, this verse means: "You can protect us from seeing our own mistakes or dangers." They are asking for your presence and guidance instead of just looking down on them. It’s about having a watchful protector. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is a moment of intense anxiety and reliance on God. It highlights the importance of trust and protection, especially when facing difficult circumstances. It suggests a profound sense of vulnerability – they are placing their whole security in your care. It speaks to the need for guidance and watchful presence from a higher power. In short, it’s a powerful expression of faith and reliance on God's protection. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Connect it to other biblical stories or themes?