Kadesh-Barnea: The Tragic Turning Point of Israel’s Journey. Some moments in history echo forever. Numbers 14 describes one such day: the rebellion at Kadesh-Barnea. After the spies’ report, Israel stood at the threshold of the Promised Land—then turned back in fear. That night of weeping set the course for forty years of wandering. The story remains a sobering call to trust God’s promises without delay.