Bible Dictionary
Murmuring
Murmuring is complaining or grumbling against God, His servants, or His providence. Israel’s repeated murmuring in the wilderness brought divine displeasure, and Christians are warned against following that example.
Definition
Murmuring is complaining or grumbling, especially against God, His servants, or His providence. In biblical narratives it describes discontent expressed by Israel during the wilderness journey.
Biblical Usage
Israel’s murmuring repeatedly provoked God’s displeasure and required Moses’ earnest intercession. Paul forbids Christians to follow this wilderness example.
Historical Background
The recorded instances occur during Israel’s wilderness experiences, including complaints associated with hardship, leadership, defeat, and divine judgment.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Of the Hebrews in the wilderness, called forth the displeasure of God, which was only averted by the earnest prayer of Moses (Num. 11:33, 34; 12; 14:27, 30, 31; 16:3; 21:4-6; Ps. 106:25). Forbidden by Paul (1 Cor. 10:10).