Numbers 20:6

And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto them.

And Moses {H4872} and Aaron {H175} went {H935} from the presence {H6440} of the assembly {H6951} unto the door {H6607} of the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, and they fell {H5307} upon their faces {H6440}: and the glory {H3519} of the LORD {H3068} appeared {H7200} unto them.

Moshe and Aharon left the assembly, went to the entrance of the tent of meeting and fell on their faces; and the glory of ADONAI appeared to them.

Then Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. They fell facedown, and the glory of the LORD appeared to them.

And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tent of meeting, and fell upon their faces: and the glory of Jehovah appeared unto them.

Commentary

Numbers 20:6 describes a pivotal moment during Israel's wilderness journey, highlighting the leadership of Moses and Aaron and the direct intervention of God amidst profound human discontent.

Context

This verse immediately follows the death of Miriam (Numbers 20:1) and precedes the infamous incident at the waters of Meribah. The Israelites, once again facing a severe lack of water in the wilderness of Zin at Kadesh, began to complain bitterly against Moses and Aaron (Numbers 20:2-5). This was a familiar pattern of rebellion and murmuring, reminiscent of earlier challenges such as the complaints at Rephidim. Overwhelmed by the people's contentious spirit and desperate need, Moses and Aaron sought divine counsel at the most sacred place available to them.

Key Themes

  • Seeking God in Crisis: Faced with extreme pressure from the assembly, Moses and Aaron did not attempt to solve the problem in their own strength. Instead, they retreated to the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, the central place of worship and divine presence for the Israelites. This act demonstrates their reliance on God as their ultimate authority and source of help.
  • Humility and Supplication: Their action of "falling upon their faces" signifies deep humility, reverence, and earnest supplication. It was a posture of complete submission and desperation before the Almighty, acknowledging His sovereignty over their challenging circumstances. This posture is seen in other moments of crisis, such as during Korah's rebellion.
  • Divine Manifestation: In response to their plea, "the glory of the LORD appeared unto them." This manifestation of God's `kavod` (Hebrew for glory, meaning His weighty presence, splendor, and visible manifestation) was a clear sign of His awareness of their plight and His readiness to intervene. It was a powerful reminder to both the leaders and potentially the assembly that God was still actively involved with His people, despite their constant grumbling. Such appearances often precede significant divine instruction or intervention, as seen when the glory of the Lord appeared before the provision of manna.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "glory of the LORD" translates the Hebrew kavod Adonai (Χ›ΦΌΦ°Χ‘ΦΉΧ•Χ“ Χ™Φ°Χ”Χ•ΦΈΧ”). The word kavod originally refers to weight or heaviness, but in a theological context, it denotes the substantial, manifest presence, splendor, and honor of God. Its appearance often signals a moment of divine revelation, judgment, or provision, underscoring God's immanence and power.

Practical Application

Numbers 20:6 offers timeless lessons for believers today. When facing overwhelming challenges, whether personal struggles or difficult leadership situations, the first and best response is to seek God's presence and guidance. Like Moses and Aaron, we are called to humble ourselves before the Lord in prayer and supplication, trusting that His glory will be revealed and His direction provided. This verse reminds us that true leadership in God's kingdom involves consistent dependence on Him, even when the path ahead is uncertain or the people are rebellious. It underscores the importance of a personal relationship with God, where His presence is sought above all else in times of distress.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 14:5

    ΒΆ Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel.

  • Numbers 16:22

    And they fell upon their faces, and said, O God, the God of the spirits of all flesh, shall one man sin, and wilt thou be wroth with all the congregation?

  • Numbers 16:4

    And when Moses heard [it], he fell upon his face:

  • Numbers 16:19

    And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.

  • Numbers 16:45

    Get you up from among this congregation, that I may consume them as in a moment. And they fell upon their faces.

  • Exodus 17:4

    And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me.

  • Psalms 109:3

    They compassed me about also with words of hatred; and fought against me without a cause.
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