Definition: And the people chode with Moses, and spake, saying, Would God that we had died when our brethren died before the LORD!
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 20:3. It’s a really intense moment in the story of the Israelites entering Egypt and getting into trouble. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: The Israelites are in distress: The Israelites were facing a huge problem – they were trapped in Egypt and desperately wanted to escape. They’re angry with Moses: They weren’t happy with Moses’ leadership or his actions. They felt like he was being unfair and that the Lord wasn't helping them. They're questioning God's plan: They were asking, "Would God really allow us to die when our brothers died before the LORD?" – This is a very profound question, implying they believe God isn’t protecting them or guiding them. Putting it Together - What it's Really About: This verse speaks about a moment of intense anger and questioning when the Israelites, fueled by their own frustration, started arguing with Moses. They were essentially saying: “We deserve better! Why are we suffering like this? Is God really protecting us?” The Key Takeaway: It’s a snapshot of human pride and a challenge to God's plan. It highlights that the Israelites were struggling with their own feelings of entitlement and were questioning why they were in this difficult situation. Important Context (Briefly): This passage is part of a larger story about the Israelites’ rebellion against Moses, which led to them being enslaved in Egypt. It shows how even when people are angry, they can still challenge God's will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some historical context about this passage? Talk about the theological significance of this moment?