Numbers 10:7
But when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm.
Original Language Analysis
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
תִּתְקְע֖וּ
ye shall blow
H8628
תִּתְקְע֖וּ
ye shall blow
Strong's:
H8628
Word #:
4 of 6
to clatter, i.e., slap (the hands together), clang (an instrument); by analogy, to drive (a nail or tent-pin, a dart, etc.); by implication, to become
Historical Context
The long, sustained trumpet blast (tekiah) for gathering created a solemn, reverent mood appropriate for worship assembly. The alarm (teruah) created urgency and action. Jewish tradition preserved these trumpet sounds in the shofar blowing on Rosh Hashanah (New Year)—tekiah (long), shevarim (broken), and teruah (staccato)—each conveying different meaning.
Questions for Reflection
- How do wise leaders discern which approach—gentle or urgent—situations require?
- What confusion results when churches apply urgent crisis methods to routine situations?
- How can we cultivate wisdom to know when to gather peacefully versus sound alarms?
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Analysis & Commentary
The distinction 'but when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm' establishes different signals for different purposes. The Hebrew kahal (gather the assembly) versus teruah (alarm) prevented confusion. Clear signals enabled proper response. This teaches that different circumstances require different approaches in church life. Pastoral care differs from church discipline; evangelism differs from discipleship; regular worship differs from special services. Wise leaders discern which approach each situation requires.