This is the law of the Nazarite who hath vowed, and of his offering unto the LORD for his separation, beside that that his hand shall get: according to the vow which he vowed, so he must do after the law of his separation.
NUMBERS 6:21KJVWhat does Numbers 6:21 mean?
Numbers 6:21 explains that a Nazarite must carefully follow the specific rules and offerings connected to their vow of separation to the LORD, and must also fulfill any additional promises they personally made. The verse emphasizes that the Nazarite is responsible to do exactly what they vowed, following both the general law and any extra commitments.
In context, Numbers 6:21 comes as Moses records God’s instructions to the Israelites about the Nazarite vow—a special, voluntary period of dedication to God. This verse sums up the requirements: not only the standard offerings and rituals, but also anything else the individual promised, must be completed. It highlights personal responsibility and the seriousness of making a vow to God.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 6:21
- נָזִיר (nazir, "Nazarite"): This word refers to someone who has taken a special vow of separation. The Nazarite vow was a voluntary commitment, not something required of everyone.
- נֶדֶר (neder, "vow") and נָדַר (nadar, "vowed"): Both words are used here, emphasizing the act of making a promise to God and the specific content of that promise.
- תּוֹרָה (torah, "law"): This word means instruction or law. Here, it refers to the set of rules God gave for Nazarites, showing that these vows were not casual but governed by clear guidelines.
- מִן־אֲשֶׁר תַּשִּׂיג יָדוֹ (min-asher tashig yado, "beside that that his hand shall get"): This phrase means whatever else the person is able to offer, highlighting that the vow could include extra offerings depending on the individual’s means.
Why Numbers 6:21 matters
- Numbers 6:21 clarifies that the Nazarite vow involves both fixed requirements and any additional personal promises, so it is not a one-size-fits-all commitment.
- The verse underscores that making a vow to God is a serious matter, and every detail—both general and personal—must be honored.
- This summary verse ties together the Nazarite section, showing how personal devotion and obedience to God’s instructions were both central in Israelite worship.