Numbers 9 9

Numbers 9:9 kjv

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Numbers 9:9 nkjv

Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,

Numbers 9:9 niv

Then the LORD said to Moses,

Numbers 9:9 esv

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying,

Numbers 9:9 nlt

This was the LORD's reply to Moses.

Numbers 9 verses

Numbers 9 9 Meaning

Numbers 9:9 declares that "the LORD spoke to Moses, saying." This verse acts as a solemn divine address, introducing the specific instructions and clarification that follow. It establishes the direct and authoritative source of the subsequent commandments regarding the Second Passover (Pesach Sheni) for those who were ritually unclean or on a journey, affirming that the resolution to a practical and theological dilemma came directly from Yahweh, communicated through His chosen mediator, Moses.

Numbers 9 9 Context

Numbers chapter 9 opens with the command to celebrate the Passover, exactly one year after the Exodus from Egypt (Num 9:1-5). This observance reaffirms Israel's covenant with God and recalls His mighty deliverance. Following this initial command, a specific dilemma arises in verses 6-8: some men are ritually unclean because of contact with a dead body, rendering them unable to observe the Passover. These men approach Moses and Aaron, expressing their earnest desire to participate and asking if there is an alternative for them. Numbers 9:9 immediately follows this query, indicating that God Himself is providing the divine resolution. This direct response from God underscores His attentiveness to His people's sincere desire to obey His commands, even when faced with unforeseen practical difficulties regarding ritual purity and worship participation in the wilderness.

Numbers 9 9 Word analysis

• And the LORD:
  • And (וַ): A conjunction meaning "and," connecting this statement directly to the previous events of men presenting their dilemma. It signifies the immediate divine response to the question raised.
  • the LORD (יְהוָה - YHVH, often rendered Yahweh): The most sacred and proper name of God in the Hebrew Bible, revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Ex 3:13-15). It signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and His covenant relationship with Israel. Its use here emphasizes the supreme, personal authority from whom the coming instructions derive.
• spake: (וַיְדַבֵּר - vaydabber): This is a vav consecutive imperfect verb from the root dabar (דָּבַר), meaning "to speak, to declare, to command." The form indicates a decisive, direct, and authoritative declaration. It suggests a structured, weighty pronouncement, not casual conversation. This specific verbal form consistently introduces direct divine commands or revelations throughout the Pentateuch.
• unto Moses: (אֶל-מֹשֶׁה - ʾel-Mosheh):
  • unto (אֶל - ʾel): A preposition indicating direct movement towards or communication to. It confirms Moses as the immediate, personal recipient of God's words.
  • Moses (מֹשֶׁה - Mosheh): The divinely appointed leader and mediator of the Israelite covenant. His unique position is consistently highlighted as the channel through whom God communicates His will to Israel. This phrase emphasizes Moses' privileged role as God's chosen messenger.
• saying: (לֵּאמֹר - lemor): An infinitive construct of the verb amar (אָמַר), meaning "to say" or "to tell." This particle commonly introduces direct speech or the exact content of what was said. It prepares the reader for the forthcoming divine directive, ensuring that the words that follow are understood as the literal pronouncement of God. It further stresses the formality and precision of the divine communication.

Numbers 9 9 Bonus section

• The placement of this verse, immediately after the human question regarding purity for Passover, highlights a consistent theme in the Pentateuch: God directly answers practical theological and legal dilemmas brought to Him by His designated leaders. This isn't just about providing rules but guiding His people in living out their covenant relationship in real-world situations.
• The communication pattern—God speaks (Yahweh dabar), to Moses (Mosheh), telling ( lemor)—is the quintessential divine revelation formula throughout the Pentateuch, especially in Numbers and Leviticus. It underscores the divine origin and absolute authority of the instructions.
• This verse, simple yet profound, demonstrates the living and dynamic nature of the covenant God. He is not a distant deity but one who listens to the concerns of His people and provides specific, timely instruction through His chosen instruments, ensuring His people can worship Him rightly even amid unexpected obstacles.

Numbers 9 9 Commentary

Numbers 9:9 is a foundational statement affirming divine authority for the subsequent legal directives. Far from being a mere narrative connector, it elevates the discussion from human inquiry to divine command. When the children of Israel faced a practical impasse concerning ritual purity and the mandated Passover observance, Moses, rather than improvising, took the matter directly to the Lord (Num 9:8). The verse "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying" marks God's direct, personal, and immediate engagement with His people's real-life challenges in covenant obedience. This act of divine speaking underscores God's meticulous care for His covenant and His people, demonstrating His readiness to provide clear guidance and specific solutions even when unique or unprecedented circumstances arise. It ensures that the "Second Passover" law that follows is not a human invention or modification but a divinely ordained provision, preserving both the sanctity of the Passover and the faithful intention of those who sought to obey. This demonstrates that God's law is not rigid to the point of frustrating sincere devotion but possesses the flexibility within its divine framework to accommodate His people's earnest desire for communion, under His direct command.