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Numbers 6

27 verses

TL;DR

Numbers 6 outlines the Nazarite vow and the blessing formula for Aaron, emphasizing holiness through abstinence from wine and unshaven hair, and concluding with sacrificial rites and a blessing.

Summary

The chapter begins with the Lord instructing Moses to convey the rules for a Nazarite vow: abstaining from wine, its byproducts, grape products, and refraining from cutting hair for the duration of the vow. It specifies the prohibition against approaching the dead and describes the consequences and rites if the vow is broken, including shaving and offering animals to atone. The Nazarite’s final rites upon completion involve shaving hair, burning it, and presenting multiple animal and grain offerings to the Lord, culminating in the priest’s wave offering and the Nazarite’s restoration. The latter part of the chapter records a distinct section where God commands Moses to instruct Aaron and his sons to pronounce the blessing, a formula that repeats in later passages. This blessing includes petitions for divine protection, favor, and peace upon the Israelites.

Outline
  1. Laws of the Nazarite vow and its practical observances
  2. Rites and consequences for violation and fulfillment of the vow
  3. Aaron’s blessing formula and its application to Israel
Themes
Holiness and separation through abstentionRedemption and atonement via sacrificeDivine blessing as covenantal protection
Keywords
Nazaritevowseparationwinehairsacrificeblessing
People
MosesAaronchildren of Israelpriest
Places
tabernaclecongregation
Things
Nazarite vowwine and vinegarunshaven hairsin offeringburnt offeringpeace offeringblessing formula
Key Verses
  • Numbers 6:1: Introduces the Nazarite vow and its foundational rules.
  • Numbers 6:10-12: Details the ritual for atoning when the vow is broken.
  • Numbers 6:23-27: Presents the Aaronic blessing that recurs throughout the Pentateuch.
Questions
  • Why does the Nazarite vow prohibit wine and grape products?
  • What symbolic meaning does the unshaven hair hold in the vow?
  • How does the atonement ritual for a broken vow reflect Israelite theology?
  • In what ways does the Aaronic blessing reflect the covenant between God and Israel?
Sentiment

neutral
The passage conveys instructional and covenantal content without overt emotional tone.