Numbers 21:6

So the LORD sent venomous snakes among the people, and many of the Israelites were bitten and died.

Study Bible

So the LORD sent
The phrase begins with the divine action of the LORD, emphasizing His sovereignty and active role in the events of Israel's journey. The Hebrew word for "sent" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which conveys the idea of dispatching or commissioning. This action underscores God's direct involvement in the discipline of His people, reminding us of His holiness and justice. It serves as a sobering reminder that God is not indifferent to sin and rebellion, but rather, He is a righteous judge who acts according to His divine will.

venomous snakes
The Hebrew term used here is שָׂרָף (saraph), which can be translated as "fiery" or "burning," likely referring to the burning sensation caused by the venom. These creatures are instruments of divine judgment, illustrating the seriousness of Israel's sin. The presence of these snakes in the wilderness also reflects the harsh and dangerous environment through which the Israelites journeyed, a setting that required their reliance on God's protection and provision.

among the people
This phrase indicates the pervasive nature of the judgment. The snakes were not isolated to a specific group but were sent "among the people," affecting the entire community. This communal aspect of the judgment highlights the corporate responsibility of the Israelites and serves as a warning about the consequences of collective disobedience. It also points to the need for communal repentance and intercession.

and they bit the Israelites
The act of biting signifies the immediate and painful consequence of the Israelites' rebellion. The Hebrew word for "bit" is נָשַׁךְ (nashak), which implies a piercing or striking action. This physical affliction is a direct result of their spiritual rebellion, illustrating the principle that sin often leads to suffering. The bites serve as a tangible reminder of the Israelites' need for repentance and God's mercy.

so that many of them died
The outcome of the snake bites was death for many Israelites, underscoring the severity of the judgment. This tragic result serves as a stark warning about the wages of sin, as echoed in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death." The death of many Israelites is a call to recognize the seriousness of turning away from God and the ultimate consequence of unrepentant sin. It also foreshadows the need for a savior who can deliver from the sting of death, pointing forward to the redemptive work of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is both just and merciful. In this passage, He acts in response to the Israelites' rebellion.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are journeying through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. They are often characterized by their complaints and lack of faith.

3. Venomous Snakes (Seraphim)
The Hebrew word used here is "seraphim," which can mean "fiery" or "burning," indicating the painful and deadly nature of the snake bites.

4. The Wilderness
The setting of the Israelites' journey, a place of testing and reliance on God.

5. The Event of Judgment
This event is a direct consequence of the Israelites' grumbling and lack of trust in God, leading to divine discipline.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience and lack of faith in God can lead to severe consequences. The Israelites' grumbling led to a tangible and painful judgment.

God's Justice and Mercy
While God is just and disciplines His people, His actions are also a call to repentance and restoration. The subsequent verses show God's provision of a remedy.

The Importance of Faith
This passage foreshadows the necessity of faith for salvation, as later illustrated by Jesus' reference to the bronze serpent.

The Role of Repentance
The Israelites' acknowledgment of their sin and plea for Moses' intercession is a model for repentance and seeking God's mercy.

Symbolism of the Serpent
The serpent, often a symbol of sin and judgment, becomes a symbol of healing when lifted up, pointing to Christ's redemptive work.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the presence of the venomous snakes teach us about the nature of sin and its consequences?

2. How does the Israelites' response to the snake bites reflect their relationship with God, and what can we learn from their example?

3. In what ways does the lifting up of the bronze serpent prefigure the work of Christ on the cross?

4. How can we apply the lesson of repentance and intercession in our own lives when we face the consequences of our actions?

5. What other biblical events or teachings can you connect to the theme of God's justice and mercy as seen in Numbers 21:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 3:14-15
Jesus references this event when speaking to Nicodemus, drawing a parallel between the lifting up of the bronze serpent and His own crucifixion, highlighting salvation through faith.

Deuteronomy 8:15
Reflects on God's guidance and protection in the wilderness, including the presence of serpents, emphasizing reliance on God.

1 Corinthians 10:9
Paul warns against testing Christ, using the Israelites' experience with the serpents as an example of the consequences of disobedience.