Numbers 21:16 from the King James Version of the Bible reads: "And from thence they went to Beer: that is the well whereof the Lord spake unto Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water."

This verse is from the book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Bible and is also known as the Book of the Wilderness. It is a part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament and is traditionally attributed to Moses. The book of Numbers primarily deals with the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their experiences under the leadership of Moses.

The verse takes place during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness and specifically references their time in the area of Beer, which means "well" in Hebrew. This passage serves as a reminder of the provision and guidance of God in the midst of adversity.

The overarching theme of this verse is the faithfulness and provision of God. Throughout the book of Numbers, the Israelites repeatedly grumble and complain about their circumstances, yet God continuously provides for them in miraculous ways. In this particular instance, the Lord instructs Moses to gather the people so that He can provide them with water. This serves as a poignant reminder of God's care for His people, even in the midst of their doubt and disobedience.

The context of this verse is important in understanding its significance. Prior to this event, the Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness and had been complaining about their lack of water and food. Their discontent had led to God sending fiery serpents among them, causing many to be bitten and die. In response to their cries for help, Moses interceded on behalf of the people and God instructed him to construct a bronze serpent on a pole, so that anyone who had been bitten could look upon it and be healed. This miraculous event is later referenced by Jesus in the New Testament as a foreshadowing of His own sacrifice for the salvation of humanity (John 3:14-15).

In the immediate context of this verse, the Israelites are once again in need of water, and God instructs Moses to gather the people at the well of Beer, where He will provide for their needs. This event serves as a continuation of God's faithfulness to His people, despite their repeated disobedience and lack of faith.

Symbolically, this verse serves as a representation of God's continuous provision and care for His people. The well of Beer becomes a powerful symbol of God's sustenance and guidance in the midst of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in experiencing God's blessings.

Furthermore, the passage can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate provision and satisfaction that comes through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the living water that quenches all thirst (John 4:14) and provides eternal life to those who believe in Him (John 7:38). The well at Beer can thus be seen as a precursor to the spiritual nourishment and satisfaction that is ultimately found in Christ.

In conclusion, Numbers 21:16 from the King James Version of the Bible is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and provision for His people. It serves as a reflection of the broader theme of the book of Numbers, which is the continuous care and guidance of God for the Israelites in the midst of their wilderness journey. Through this verse, we are called to trust in God's faithfulness and provision, even in the midst of adversity, and to find our ultimate satisfaction in the spiritual sustenance that is found in Jesus Christ.