Numbers 12:10-12

10 When the cloud lifted from above the tent, Miriam’s skin was leprous^[a] —it became as white as snow. Aaron turned toward her and saw that she had a defiling skin disease,

11 and he said to Moses, “Please, my lord, I ask you not to hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed.

12 Do not let her be like a stillborn infant coming from its mother’s womb with its flesh half eaten away.”

Numbers 12:10-12 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO NUMBER 12

In this chapter we have an account of Aaron and Miriam speaking against Moses, and for what reason, whose amiable character is given, Nu 12:1-3; and of the Lord's calling them to him, and rebuking them for it, giving an excellent testimony to Moses, and then departing in anger, Nu 12:4-9; and of Miriam's being smitten with leprosy, and Aaron's entreating Moses on his and her account, who prayed to the Lord to heal her, Nu 12:10-13; and of her being ordered to be shut out of the camp seven days, during which time the Israelites stayed at Hazeroth, and then removed to the wilderness of Paran, Nu 12:14-16.

Cross References

• 1. Exodus 40:2
• 2. S Exodus 4:6; Deuteronomy 24:9
• 3. S Leviticus 13:11; 2 Kings 5:1,27; 2 Chronicles 16:12; 2 Chronicles 21:12-15; 2 Chronicles 26:19
• 4. 2 Samuel 19:19; 2 Samuel 24:10

Footnotes

• [a]. The Hebrew for "leprous" was used for various diseases affecting the skin.