“Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”
Numbers 12:3 is a significant verse that provides insights into the character of Moses, one of the central figures in the Old Testament and a great leader chosen by God. Let’s dive deeper into the context and meaning of this verse.
Context:In this chapter, Moses’ leadership and authority are challenged by his siblings, Aaron and Miriam. They speak against Moses because of his Cushite wife and claim that God also speaks through them. God responds by affirming Moses as His chosen prophet and leader. The verse in question appears as part of God’s response.
Moses’ Meekness:The verse begins by highlighting Moses’ character trait of meekness. Meekness, in biblical terms, refers to humility, gentleness, and a submissive attitude towards God. Moses is described as “very meek,” which suggests that he possessed an extraordinary level of humility and was submissive to God’s will.
Moses’ Superior Meekness:The verse further states that Moses was meek “above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” This indicates that Moses’ meekness surpassed that of any other person living at that time. It emphasizes his exceptional humility and highlights his unique relationship with God.
Significance of Meekness:The mention of Moses’ meekness carries significant implications. Meekness is a quality highly regarded in the Bible and is often associated with righteousness and closeness to God. It denotes a willingness to submit to God’s guidance and a lack of arrogance or self-importance. Through his meekness, Moses exemplified a deep reverence for God and a willingness to fulfill His purposes.
Lessons to Learn:The verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of meekness in our own lives. Meekness allows us to acknowledge our dependence on God and to surrender our own desires to His will. It fosters a humble and teachable spirit, enabling us to receive God’s guidance and direction.
Overall, Numbers 12:3 provides a glimpse into the remarkable character of Moses and highlights his exceptional meekness. It reminds us of the significance of humility and submission to God, encouraging us to cultivate these qualities in our own lives.

