And if a stranger shall sojourn among you, and will keep the passover unto the LORD; according to the ordinance of the passover, and according to the manner thereof, so shall he do: ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.
NUMBERS 9:14KJVWhat does Numbers 9:14 mean?
Numbers 9:14 says that if a foreigner is living among the Israelites and wants to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, that person must follow the same rules and customs as the Israelites themselves. There is to be one law for both the foreigner and the native-born when it comes to observing the Passover.
In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, giving instructions for the community of Israel as they prepare to celebrate the Passover. The verse makes it clear that the invitation to participate in this important festival is open to both Israelites and foreigners living with them, as long as everyone follows the same requirements. This sets a standard of equality and unity in worship, showing that the same expectations apply to all who wish to honor the LORD in this way.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 9:14
- "stranger" (גֵּר, ger): This word refers to a foreigner or non-Israelite living among the Israelites. The verse emphasizes that outsiders are welcome to participate in Passover if they choose to follow the same rules.
- "sojourn" (גוּר, gur): This means to live temporarily or reside as a guest. The law applies to those who are not permanent citizens but are staying with the Israelites.
- "ordinance" (חֻקָּה, chuqqah): This word means a statute or regulation. The verse insists that the same specific rules apply to everyone, not just the Israelites.
- "born" (אֶזְרָח, ezrach): This word means a native-born person, highlighting the contrast between those born in the land and those who have come from elsewhere.
Why Numbers 9:14 matters
- Numbers 9:14 clears up any idea that the Passover was only for ethnic Israelites; it shows that anyone willing to follow God's instructions could take part.
- The verse highlights the importance of fairness and unity in worship, making sure there is no double standard between natives and foreigners.
- This instruction connects to the wider theme in the Torah of welcoming the outsider and treating them with the same respect and responsibility as those born in the community.