Translations
Original
Notes
Atonement (the way God provides forgiveness and restores a relationship with him) could be made for sins done without knowing or by accident (15:22–29). However, a person who sinned openly and proudly was treated differently (literally with a high hand; compare Exodus 14:8). Such a person showed open disrespect toward God. This was considered blasphemy (speaking against God in a dishonoring way). That person had to face serious consequences (compare Leviticus 24:10–16; see also Deuteronomy 17:2–6; Hebrews 10:26–31).
cut off from among his people: See study notes on Exodus 31:14–15; Leviticus 7:20–21.
Chapters 1–14 cover a short time period, but chapter 15 marks the start of a long period. This is the main part of the forty years in the wilderness, about which little is known. There are references to events during this time (for example, Deuteronomy 8:2–6; 29:5–6; Joshua 5:4–8; Ezekiel 20:10–26; Amos 5:25–26; Acts 7:42–43).
During this period, Moses continued to give laws to guide Israel’s life as a nation. These laws would be especially important in the future. They were meant for the day when the people who survived the wilderness would enter the promised land.
This chapter addresses three main types of laws. Numbers 15 is in the middle of stories about a stubborn and disobedient Israel. It offers hope that the promised land still waited for the next generation of Israel’s people.
Glossary
Banish, Banishment Biblical Concept of Law Criminal Law and Punishment Deuteronomy, Book of Numbers, Book of Wilderness Wanderings
Topics
Church of Israel: Members of Excommunicated for Heavy Offenses Church: Rules of Discipline In, Mosaic and Christian Infidelity: General Scriptures Concerning Sin: Punishment of Wicked (People): Punishment of