Definition: And when we cried unto the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent an angel, and hath brought us forth out of Egypt: and, behold, we [are] in Kadesh, a city in the uttermost of thy border:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 20:16. It’s a really important and significant passage about God’s intervention with the Israelites. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: They Were Lost: The Israelites were in a terrible situation – they had been enslaved by Egyptian Pharaoh for many years, living in Egypt and being treated terribly. They Called Out to God: They desperately needed help. They cried out to God, pleading for deliverance. God Answered: God heard their cries and sent an angel to rescue them. They Were Saved: The angel brought them out of slavery! Let's unpack the details: “And when we cried unto the LORD…” - This is a direct address – it’s like saying, "We were pleading with God." It shows how desperate they were. "...he heard our voice..." - God recognized their suffering and understood their need. "...and sent an angel..." - This is a supernatural sign of help. "...and hath brought us forth out of Egypt:" – This is the key part! “Egypt” refers to the Egyptian Empire, which was a powerful and oppressive nation. The verse says God brought them out – rescued them from that oppressive rule. “And, behold, we [are] in Kadesh…” - "Kadesh" is a place name in Hebrew, often translated as “the valley.” It's a strategic location, a place of preparation and training for soldiers before a big battle. So, they were in this place, setting up to prepare for war. What does it all mean? This verse is a powerful story about God’s love and protection. It shows that: God cares deeply: He's not just interested in the Israelites; he wants to help them, even when they are suffering. He is involved: His intervention isn’t accidental – it’s a deliberate response to their need. They are part of a larger plan: They were being held captive, but God chose to rescue them and bring them into a new situation. In short, this verse describes a miraculous rescue from slavery, marking the beginning of God's leading them into a new life. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to other Bible stories? Discuss its significance in the context of the Old Testament?