That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God.

NUMBERS 15:40KJV
truelightbible.com

Numbers 15:40 (KJV)

What does Numbers 15:40 mean?

Numbers 15:40 tells the Israelites to remember God’s commandments, to follow them, and to live as people set apart for their God. The verse highlights the purpose behind the instructions: recalling God’s words leads to obedience and a life marked by holiness.

In this verse, God is speaking to the people of Israel through Moses, giving them a reason for the command to wear tassels on their garments (described in the previous verses). The tassels are a physical reminder to keep God’s commands (not just to know them, but to do them) and to be “holy”—that is, distinct and dedicated—to God.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 15:40

  • זָכַר (zakar, “remember”): This word means more than just recalling facts; it often carries the sense of keeping something present in one’s mind so that it shapes actions. Here, it stresses that remembering God’s commandments should lead to obedience.
  • עָשָׂה (asah, “do”): This is a common word for “do” or “make,” emphasizing active obedience rather than passive belief. The verse calls for putting God’s commandments into practice.
  • מִצְוָה (mitsvah, “commandments”): This word refers to God’s specific instructions. The focus is on all of God’s commandments, not just a select few.
  • קָדוֹשׁ (qadosh, “holy”): This word means set apart or dedicated. The verse connects holiness with obedience, showing that being holy to God involves living differently because of God’s commands.
  • אֱלֹהִים (Elohim, “God”): This is a common Hebrew word for God, emphasizing His authority as the one giving the commandments.

Why Numbers 15:40 matters

  • Numbers 15:40 clarifies that the outward sign (the tassels) is not just a ritual, but a tool to help God’s people remember and live out His instructions.
  • The verse connects remembering and doing, showing that true holiness involves both knowing God’s commandments and putting them into action.
  • Numbers 15:40 ties the idea of being “holy” directly to obedience, not just to ritual separation or special status, but to a life shaped by God’s words.