Numbers 20:10 Meaning and Explanation
“And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses gathers the assembly before the rock and speaks to them, calling them rebels.
The Context of Numbers 20:10
Moses gathers the assembly and addresses them with accusation, departing from God's exact instruction.
What Does Numbers 20:10 Mean?
Moses assembles the people before the rock as commanded. However, his words diverge from God's instruction. He addresses the people directly, calling them 'rebels' and asking a question that places blame on them for the shortage. His language is sharp and accusatory, suggesting frustration with their complaints.
Moses' question 'must we fetch you water' subtly shifts authority from God to himself and Aaron—'we' rather than 'God will.' This phrasing marks a moment where Moses appears to take personal credit for what God is about to do, rather than allowing the sign to point to God's power alone.
Numbers 20:10 in the Original Language
rebels (מְרִים), 'merim' — those who rise up in rebellion; here, a direct rebuke to the people's faithlessness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 20:10
What does Numbers 20:10 mean?
Moses gathers the assembly before the rock and speaks to them, calling them rebels.
What is the context of Numbers 20:10?
Moses gathers the assembly and addresses them with accusation, departing from God's exact instruction.