Book of Numbers - Chapter 12 - Verse 8

In this verse, the speaker is expressing their astonishment at how the people were not afraid to speak against their servant Moses. The phrase "With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold" highlights the intimate and direct communication that Moses had with God. Unlike other prophets who received messages in dreams or visions, Moses had a unique privilege of speaking with God face to face, without any ambiguity. This close relationship with the divine allowed Moses to have a deep understanding of God's will and to accurately convey his messages to the people. By questioning why the people were not afraid to challenge Moses, the speaker is emphasizing the authority and credibility of Moses as a servant of God. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and obeying those chosen by God to guide and lead his people.

According to theological interpretation, this verse from Numbers 12:8 highlights the special relationship that Moses had with God. The phrase "mouth to mouth" implies a direct and intimate form of communication between God and Moses. Unlike the cryptic messages often delivered through prophets, God spoke to Moses openly and clearly. The verse also mentions that Moses beheld the similitude of the Lord, indicating that he had a privileged insight into the nature of God. This closeness and intimacy with the divine should have inspired fear and reverence in the people, as demonstrated by God's rebuke to Miriam and Aaron for speaking against His chosen servant, Moses. The use of the phrase "not in dark speeches" emphasizes the transparency and honesty of God's communication with Moses, reinforcing the idea of their close relationship. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting God's chosen leaders and the need for humility in the presence of divine revelation.