Definition: And Moses told these sayings unto all the children of Israel: and the people mourned greatly.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 14:39. It's a really important passage about a serious problem with the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Story: God is setting his people – the Israelites – up to face a huge challenge. Moses is telling them a message, and it’s filled with worry and sadness. What’s Happening? A Leader is Tempted: A leader of Israel, named Ephraim, is trying to trick God. He's offering the people a deal – he wants to be worshipped as a god, and they will be happy. The People are Furious: The Israelites, who are already struggling with their own problems (like being restless and wanting more), are deeply upset by this offer. They’re feeling betrayed and angry. Moses' Warning: Moses is telling them to warn the people about this temptation. He’s saying that this situation is a serious warning – it shows how easily people can be misled. The Feeling of Sadness: The phrase “and the people mourned greatly” really captures the emotion. It wasn’t just sadness; it was a deep, widespread feeling of worry and distress. It suggests they were grieving a loss - a loss of trust in God, and perhaps a loss of their way of life. Why is this important? This verse sets the stage for a huge conflict in the story of Israel’s history. It shows that even when people are tempted to do wrong, it's crucial to listen to God's word and stay true to his will. It highlights the importance of vigilance and keeping your eyes open to potential dangers. In short: Moses is warning the Israelites about a leader who is trying to deceive them, and that their sadness shows how deeply they are worried about this situation. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? Perhaps we could focus on: The context of the story (what was happening before?) What kind of temptation is being discussed? How does this verse relate to a larger theme in the Bible (like obedience or trust)?