Numbers 30:15 (KJV)

What does Numbers 30:15 mean?

Numbers 30:15 says that if a husband cancels his wife's vows after he has already heard them, he is responsible for any wrongdoing that results from breaking those vows. The verse places the burden of guilt on the husband if he delays in making his decision.

In context, Moses is relaying God's instructions to the Israelites about vows made by women, especially wives. The passage explains that a husband has the authority to confirm or nullify his wife's vows, but if he waits and then cancels them after hearing, he "bears her iniquity"—meaning he is held accountable for the consequences. This rule highlights the seriousness of vows and the responsibility that comes with authority in family relationships.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 30:15

• "ways" and "void" — פָּרַר (parar): This Hebrew word means "to break," "to annul," or "to make void." Its use here emphasizes that the husband is actively canceling or invalidating the vow, not just ignoring it.
• "bear" — נָשָׂא (nasa’): This word means "to bear," "to carry," or "to take upon oneself." In this context, it shows that the husband takes on the responsibility or guilt for the broken vow.
• "iniquity" — עָוֹן (avon): This word is often translated as "iniquity," "guilt," or "sin." It refers to the moral or legal consequences of wrongdoing, highlighting that the broken vow is a serious matter.

Why Numbers 30:15 matters

• Numbers 30:15 clarifies that authority comes with responsibility; the husband's power to annul vows is not without consequences if used carelessly or belatedly.
• The verse helps prevent misunderstandings about blame, making it clear that the woman is not held guilty if her vow is broken due to her husband's late decision.
• This instruction fits into a larger section about vows, showing the importance of both making and keeping promises, and the communal responsibility involved in upholding them.