Definition: And the men, which Moses sent to search the land, who returned, and made all the congregation to murmur against him, by bringing up a slander upon the land,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 14:36. It’s a really important moment in the story of Israel's relationship with God and it highlights a significant challenge they faced. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Moses Sends People: Moses was sending a group of men – essentially, leaders and messengers – to explore the land of Canaan (which is now part of modern-day Israel). They Return with a Problem: These men returned from their journey, but they didn’t report back well. They brought bad news: The people didn't want to hear what they said about Moses. The People Murmured (Spoke Badly): This is the core of the problem. The people started to talk badly about Moses and his intentions, even though he hadn’t done anything wrong. They spread rumors and negative stories. What it Means – A Bit Deeper: This verse tells us that the Israelites were experiencing a growing sense of distrust and resentment towards Moses. It wasn't just a few people complaining; it was a widespread feeling that they weren’t trusting him, and that he was causing trouble. Why it Matters (Historically): This story is considered one of the earliest examples of political maneuvering and social division within the Israelites. It shows how quickly negativity can spread when people don't trust their leader. It’s a crucial point in understanding why God eventually chose to deliver the Law to Moses – because he needed to show that He was truly in control and not subject to the whims of his people. In short, it's about a moment where people started to turn against Moses because they weren't trusting him, leading to conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this story in more detail? Talk about its significance within the larger narrative of the Old Testament?