Numbers 12:4-9

The LORD defends Moses

4 Immediately, the LORD said to Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, "You three go out to the meeting tent." So the three of them went out.

5 Then the LORD descended in a column of cloud, stood at the entrance of the tent, and called to Aaron and Miriam. The two of them came forward.

6 He said, "Listen to my words: If there is a prophet of the LORD among you, I make myself known to him in visions. I speak to him in dreams.

7 But not with my servant Moses. He has proved to be reliable with all my household.

8 I speak with him face-to-face, visibly, not in riddles. He sees the LORD's form. So why aren't you afraid to criticize my servant Moses?"

9 The LORD's anger blazed against them, and they went back.

Numbers 12:4-9 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.

Footnotes

• [a]. Heb uncertain; LXX If there is a prophet of you for the Lord.