Verses 11-25
Numbers 14:11-Lamentations : (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).
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