Keraia
Numbers 6

Numbers 6:13

The Nazirite Vow · Numbers 6:1–21
Read Numbers 6

Translations

Modern
Now this is the law of the Nazirite when his time of separation is complete: He must be brought to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting,
Traditional
And this is the law of the Nazarite, when the days of his separation are fulfilled: he shall be brought unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation:
Literal
And this is the law of the Nazirite on a day fulfilling the days of his separation. He shall be brought to the door of the Tent of Meeting.
Latin
Ista est lex consecrationis. Cum dies, quos ex voto decreverat, complebuntur, adducet eum ad ostium tabernaculi fœderis,

Original

Hebrew
English
Now this is the law of the Nazirite when his time of separation is complete: He must be brought to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting,

Notes

Numbers 6:9–21

The law gave instructions for restoring purity after unavoidable contact with a dead body. Contact with a dead body made a person ceremonially unclean (not fit for worship for a period of time). The person had to follow certain steps in order to be restored.

Special procedures and offerings also marked the end of a Nazirite vow. A Nazirite vow was a special promise to set oneself apart for God for a period of time. When the time ended, the person brought sacrifices and completed the required rituals.

The law also gives a strong warning about fulfilling the vow (6:21). A person who made such a promise had to complete it fully. God expected faithfulness in keeping vows made to him.

Numbers 6:1–21

The voluntary vow of a Nazirite allowed men or women to separate themselves to the LORD. The Nazirite lifestyle varied throughout Hebrew history. People took vows seriously in ancient times as a way to show devotion or gratitude to God. This vow could be temporary or permanent. It involved avoiding alcoholic drinks, not cutting hair, and avoiding contact with corpses.

Nazirite restrictions allowed members of non-Levitical tribes to have a more demanding and highly respected relationship with God. The Nazirite vow is probably best known because of Samson (Judges 13–16). See also 1 Samuel 1:11; Jeremiah 35; Acts 18:18; 21:23–26; compare Luke 1:15.

Theme notes and profiles

Samson

Parallels

Judges 13:1–25

People

Nazirites: Person who took a special vow of dedication

Glossary

Baldness Biblical Concept of Law Deuteronomy, Book of Doeg Holiness Judges, Book of Nazarite, Nazirite Numbers, Book of Offerings and Sacrifices Samuel (Person) Vow, Vows

Topics

Fraternity: The Nazarites, Vows of Nazarite: Law Concerning Nazarites: On Completion of Vow: To be Brought to Tabernacle Door