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Book of Numbers - Chapter 12 - Verse 15

12:15
And Miriam was shut out from the camp seven days: and the people journeyed not till Miriam was brought in again.

Meaning

In the book of Numbers, chapter 12, verse 15, it is mentioned that Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, was shut out from the camp for seven days as a punishment for speaking against Moses. During this time, the people did not continue their journey until Miriam was brought back into the camp. This verse highlights the importance of unity and harmony among the people of Israel as they traveled through the wilderness. Miriam's exclusion from the camp serves as a lesson on the consequences of speaking against God's chosen leaders. It also shows the value of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Miriam was eventually allowed back into the camp after the designated time of punishment. This verse serves as a reminder to respect authority and strive for peace within the community, even in times of conflict or disagreement.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Numbers, the narrative tells us about Miriam being expelled from the camp for seven days due to her speaking against Moses. This act of exclusion from the community was a form of discipline and purification for Miriam's sin. The theological interpretation of this event highlights the importance of obedience and respect for authority, as well as the consequences of speaking against God's chosen leaders. It also emphasizes the need for repentance and reconciliation with the community before being allowed to rejoin them.

A word study of the term "shut out" in this verse reveals the Hebrew word "karath," which can also be translated as "cut off." This sheds further light on the severity of Miriam's punishment and the significance of being separated from the camp for a specific period. The term "brought in again" reflects the idea of restoration and forgiveness, illustrating the mercy and grace of God towards those who repent of their wrongdoing. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, repentance, and reconciliation in maintaining a harmonious and obedient community.

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