Definition: And the LORD said, I have pardoned according to thy word:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Numbers 14:20. It’s a really significant moment in God's relationship with Israel and has deep meaning about forgiveness and covenant. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially means God is forgiving something that was previously considered a serious transgression. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the LORD said…” : This establishes that this isn't just any conversation; it's a direct communication from God. “…I have pardoned according to thy word:” This is the core of the verse. It means God has forgiven something because he chose to forgive it, based on the rules and commands he gave. “Thy word” refers to God’s law or instructions. What does this mean in practice? This verse was a pivotal moment after the Israelites disobeyed God's laws – specifically, they took the Law into their own hands and refused to follow it. God felt deeply hurt by this disobedience. This verse shows that He didn’t just punish them; He chose to offer forgiveness. Why is this important? It demonstrates God's love: It highlights that God loves his people even when they break his rules. It reinforces the covenant (agreement): The covenant between God and Israel was a promise of relationship and protection. This verse shows that God’s forgiveness is a key part of keeping that covenant. In short, it's a powerful statement about God's mercy, His willingness to forgive, and the importance of obedience. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or event in the Bible (like the story of Moses)?