Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ContextMurmuring, in the biblical context, refers to the act of grumbling, complaining, or expressing discontent, often in a low, muttered tone. It is typically directed against God or His appointed leaders and is characterized by a lack of faith and trust in God's provision and plan. Murmuring is frequently depicted in the Bible as a sinful attitude that leads to divine displeasure and judgment. Old Testament Examples 1. The Israelites in the Wilderness: One of the most prominent examples of murmuring is found in the narrative of the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt. Despite witnessing God's miraculous deliverance and provision, the Israelites repeatedly complained against Moses and Aaron. In Exodus 16:2-3 , it is recorded, "And there in the desert they all grumbled against Moses and Aaron. 'If only we had died by the LORD’s hand in the land of Egypt,' they said. 'There we sat by pots of meat and ate our fill of bread, but you have brought us into this desert to starve this whole assembly to death.'" 2. The Rebellion of Korah: In Numbers 16, Korah, along with Dathan and Abiram, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, fueled by discontent and murmuring. This act of defiance was met with severe judgment from God, as the earth opened up and swallowed the rebels (Numbers 16:31-33). 3. The Waters of Meribah: In Numbers 20:2-5 , the Israelites again murmured against Moses due to a lack of water, saying, "Why have you brought the LORD’s assembly into this wilderness for us and our livestock to die here? Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place?" This incident led to Moses striking the rock in anger, which resulted in his own punishment from God. New Testament Insights 1. The Pharisees and Jesus: The New Testament also addresses murmuring, particularly in the context of the Pharisees' attitude towards Jesus. In Luke 5:30 , the Pharisees and scribes grumbled against His disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" This murmuring reflected their hardened hearts and inability to recognize Jesus' mission of redemption. 2. The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard: In Matthew 20:11-12 , Jesus tells a parable where laborers grumble against the landowner for what they perceive as unfair wages. "On receiving their pay, they began to grumble against the landowner. 'These men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, 'and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden and scorching heat of the day.'" This parable illustrates the human tendency to murmur against perceived injustices, contrasting it with God's grace and sovereignty. Theological Implications Murmuring is often portrayed as a symptom of a deeper spiritual issue—namely, a lack of faith and trust in God's goodness and sovereignty. It reflects a heart that is not content with God's provision and timing. The Bible consistently warns against murmuring, as it can lead to a hardened heart and separation from God's blessings. Practical Applications Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and trust, even in challenging circumstances. Philippians 2:14-15 exhorts, "Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world." This passage highlights the importance of maintaining a positive witness through a content and trusting heart. Conclusion While murmuring is a common human response to dissatisfaction, the Bible calls believers to rise above this tendency by trusting in God's perfect plan and provision. Through faith and gratitude, Christians can overcome the temptation to murmur and instead reflect the light of Christ in a world prone to discontent. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 20:11And when they had received it, they murmured against the manager of the house, Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 15:29,30 Library Genesis xxvii. 38 The Sinner Arraigned and Convicted. The Dove and the Lamb The Institution of Deacons, and the History of Stephen. Lorimer -- the Fall of Satan Three Aspects of Faith Our Relations to the Departed Sovereignty of God in Administration A People Prepared for the Lord SERMON XIV. Resources What is glossolalia? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the flesh? | GotQuestions.org Who was Korah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Murmuring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Murmuring of Israelites Against Moses Murmuring: Against: Disciples of Christ Murmuring: Against: Ministers of God Murmuring: Against: The Service of God Murmuring: Against: The Sovereignty of God Murmuring: Characteristic of the Wicked Murmuring: Guilt of Encouraging Others In Murmuring: Jews, Against Jesus Murmuring: Unreasonableness of Related Terms |