Numbers 6 Commentary

Explanation of Numbers 6

Numbers 6 covers two key topics: the Nazirite vow and the priestly blessing. Both highlight holiness, dedication to God, and the blessing that comes from walking in His presence.

The Nazirite Vow (Numbers 6:1-21)

A Nazirite (from the Hebrew word nazir, meaning “separated” or “consecrated”) was a person who voluntarily took a special vow of dedication to God. This vow was open to both men and women and had three major restrictions:

1. No Wine or Strong Drink – The Nazirite had to abstain from all grape products, including wine, vinegar, fresh grapes, and raisins. This symbolized total devotion to God, avoiding worldly indulgence.
2. No Cutting of Hair – The Nazirite’s hair was to grow long, serving as a visible sign of their vow. This showed outwardly what was supposed to be true inwardly: complete consecration to the Lord.
3. No Contact with a Dead Body – Even if a close relative died, the Nazirite could not touch a corpse. This signified that their dedication to God took precedence over all earthly relationships.

If a Nazirite became unclean by accident (e.g., being near a sudden death), they had to shave their head, offer sacrifices, and restart their vow. At the end of their vow, they would present offerings at the Tabernacle, including shaving their head and burning their hair as a symbol of completion.

Christ-Centered Significance

Jesus as the True Nazirite – Though Jesus was not a Nazirite in the technical sense (He drank wine, for example), He was the ultimate “consecrated one” set apart for God’s purpose (John 17:19).

The Christian Life as a Life of Dedication – While the Nazirite vow was temporary, believers are called to a lifetime of holiness and separation from sin (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1:15-16).

The Priestly Blessing (Numbers 6:22-27)

God commanded Aaron and his sons to pronounce a blessing over the people of Israel. This blessing is one of the most well-known passages in Scripture:

“The LORD bless you and keep you;
The LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you;
The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)

This blessing contains three key elements:

1. God’s Provision and Protection – “The LORD bless you and keep you” points to God’s care and preservation of His people.
2. God’s Favor and Grace – “The LORD make His face shine upon you” speaks of God’s presence and favor, much like a father’s face lighting up toward his child.
3. God’s Peace (Shalom) – “The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace” conveys the fullness of God’s blessing—spiritual well-being, reconciliation, and security in Him.

Christ-Centered Significance

Jesus is the Fulfillment of the Blessing – Through Christ, we receive the fullness of God’s grace, protection, and peace (Ephesians 1:3).

The Face of God Revealed in Christ – In Jesus, God’s face shines upon us in a way never seen before (John 1:14-18; 2 Corinthians 4:6).

True Peace Comes Through Christ – The ultimate fulfillment of this blessing is found in Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6; John 14:27).

Conclusion

Numbers 6 highlights the themes of holiness and blessing. The Nazirite vow teaches dedication to God, pointing to Christ as the true consecrated One. The priestly blessing shows God’s abundant grace, which is fully realized in Jesus. Through Him, we receive not only God’s favor but also His eternal peace.