Numbers 15:33
And they that found him gathering sticks brought him unto Moses and Aaron, and unto all the congregation.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּקְרִ֣יבוּ
brought
H7126
וַיַּקְרִ֣יבוּ
brought
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
1 of 13
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
אֹת֔וֹ
H853
אֹת֔וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַמֹּֽצְאִ֥ים
And they that found
H4672
הַמֹּֽצְאִ֥ים
And they that found
Strong's:
H4672
Word #:
3 of 13
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
אֹת֖וֹ
H853
אֹת֖וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
מְקֹשֵׁ֣שׁ
him gathering
H7197
מְקֹשֵׁ֣שׁ
him gathering
Strong's:
H7197
Word #:
5 of 13
to forage for straw, stubble or wood; figuratively, to assemble
עֵצִ֑ים
sticks
H6086
עֵצִ֑ים
sticks
Strong's:
H6086
Word #:
6 of 13
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
Historical Context
In Israel's theocratic structure, civil and religious authority were unified. Moses and Aaron judged as God's representatives, ensuring that punishment reflected divine justice rather than human vengeance. This foreshadows Christ's future role as ultimate Judge.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your sin affect the broader community of faith?
- When should private sin be brought to church leadership for discipline?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Those who found the man brought him to Moses and Aaron—recognizing that such violation required authoritative judgment. Their action demonstrated proper understanding that sin against God's law isn't merely private but affects the entire community. The corporate nature of covenant relationship meant individual rebellion endangered all.