Definition: I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:35. It's a pretty powerful and serious passage about God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is saying that a group of people – the Israelites – are gathering together against him, and they will be destroyed. He intends to use this situation as a way to punish them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I the LORD have said…” : This immediately establishes God as the authority being speaking. It’s not just someone saying something; it’s God making a definitive statement. “…I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation…” : "Congregation" means a group of people. “Evil” here is a big word, but it refers to the Israelites – their disobedience and rebellion against God. It's saying that these people are actively causing trouble and wrongdoing. "...that are gathered together against me:" : This emphasizes the group’s opposition. They’re coming together in a way that threatens God and his plan. “in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.” : This is the most frightening part. "Wilderness" refers to a place of hardship and isolation – likely a time of testing or exile. The phrase “consumed” means destroyed completely; “die” means to cease living. It suggests a complete ending to their existence. What’s the message? God is sending a clear warning about the consequences of rebellion against him. He's saying that this gathering together will lead to God’s wrath and ultimately, destruction for them. It’s a judgment delivered through a tangible consequence – they’ll be punished and lost. Important Context: This verse appears in the Old Testament, specifically in Numbers 14:35, during a time when the Israelites were wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. They had been defying God's laws and instructions, and this verse is a consequence of their disobedience. It’s a very serious moment for God. In short: This passage warns about the dangers of rebellion against God and promises that He will ultimately punish those who defy his authority. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?