Numbers 14:11-25

Numbers 14:11 (JE). Yahweh's Threat to Disinherit the People, and Moses-' Intercession for them. This section is derived from JE, as appears from the exemption of Caleb only (Numbers 14:24) from the sentence of exclusion from Canaan pronounced on the existing generation. Moses here shows the same self-effacement as in Exodus 32:11 f. [The plea that Yahweh should do nothing which would damage His reputation among the heathen emphasizes a motive for the Divine action which is specially prominent in Ezekiel. A. S. P.].

Numbers 14:14. they will tell it: literally, they will say; but what will be said is not related, so that there is probably some corruption. The LXX preferably has, all the inhabitants of the land have heard that, etc.

Numbers 14:22. tempted: better, tested. ten times: a round number, as in Genesis 31:7; Nehemiah 4:12; Job 19:3; Zechariah 8:23.

Numbers 14:25. Now ... valley: contrast Numbers 14:45 (where the people here named occupy the mountain): the clause should probably be omitted (as in Deuteronomy 1:40). the Red Sea: i.e. the gulf of Akabah (cf. Numbers 21:4).