Numbers 21:15 meaning

In the desert wanderings of Israel, the people faced many trials that tested their faith and led to moments of dire consequence. Following a long, arduous journey around Edom, their spirit began to wane, leading them into a state of distress and discontent. This culminated in a rebellion against both God and Moses as they lamented their circumstances. Their complaints notably prompted divine retribution in the form of fiery serpents sent among them, marking a severe consequence of their ingratitude and doubts.

In response to their plight, they acknowledged their wrongdoing and turned to Moses, seeking intercession and relief from the venomous affliction. “Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.” This divine instruction highlights a theme prevalent throughout Scripture: faith in God's provision leads to salvation. The subsequent act of looking at the bronze serpent became a profound symbol of faith and redemption. In a parallel sense, this foreshadows the New Testament's teaching of salvation through Christ, who was "lifted up" for humanity's healing.