Numbers 15:13
All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 11
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הָֽאֶזְרָ֥ח
All that are born of the country
H249
הָֽאֶזְרָ֥ח
All that are born of the country
Strong's:
H249
Word #:
2 of 11
a spontaneous growth, i.e., native (tree or persons)
יַֽעֲשֶׂה
shall do
H6213
יַֽעֲשֶׂה
shall do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
3 of 11
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
כָּ֖כָה
H3602
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 11
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לְהַקְרִ֛יב
these things after this manner in offering
H7126
לְהַקְרִ֛יב
these things after this manner in offering
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
7 of 11
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
אִשֵּׁ֥ה
an offering made by fire
H801
אִשֵּׁ֥ה
an offering made by fire
Strong's:
H801
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, a burnt-offering; but occasionally of any sacrifice
Historical Context
Written to the wilderness generation born in Egypt or during wandering, this verse reminded them that covenant identity comes with covenant obligations. Their parents' exodus didn't exempt them from personal obedience to Torah regulations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does being 'born into' Christian heritage compare to and differ from Israel's native-born status?
- In what ways might we presume upon spiritual privileges while neglecting accompanying responsibilities?
- What does this verse teach about the relationship between identity (who we are) and obedience (what we do)?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner (אֶזְרָח ezrach, 'native-born')—Every natural Israelite, regardless of tribe or status, followed identical worship protocols. Birth into the covenant community brought privileges (Romans 3:1-2) but also responsibilities. The phrase 'after this manner' (כָּכָה kakah) means 'exactly this way'—no modifications allowed.
This verse establishes the baseline for the revolutionary inclusion that follows (vv. 14-16). Native birth alone doesn't guarantee acceptability with God; obedience to His prescribed worship does. Jesus would later challenge ethnic presumption: 'Think not to say... We have Abraham to our father' (Matthew 3:9).