Book of Numbers - Chapter 21 - Verse 7

After the people of Israel had been afflicted by poisonous serpents as a consequence of their sins, they turned to Moses in repentance, acknowledging their wrongdoing against both the Lord and against him. This verse highlights the gravity of their transgressions and the importance of seeking forgiveness from God through prayer. By admitting their sins and asking Moses to intercede on their behalf, the people demonstrate humility and a recognition of their need for divine intervention. Moses, as a mediator between God and the people, responds to their plea by praying for them, emphasizing the power of prayer in seeking forgiveness and healing. This passage serves as a reminder of the significance of repentance, seeking intercession, and the transformative power of prayer in times of trial and disobedience.

One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the concept of repentance and seeking forgiveness from the Lord. The Israelites realized their sin of speaking against God and Moses and acknowledged their wrongdoing by coming to Moses and confessing their sin. This act of confessing their sins and asking for forgiveness is seen as a model of true repentance that is needed for reconciliation with God. Moses, as the mediator between the people and God, intercedes on behalf of the repentant Israelites by praying for the removal of the serpents that had been sent as a punishment for their sin. This demonstrates the importance of seeking forgiveness from God through prayer and illustrates the role of a mediator in facilitating communication between God and His people.