Numbers 17:11
And Moses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he.
Original Language Analysis
עָשָֽׂה׃
did
H6213
עָשָֽׂה׃
did
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֨ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
3 of 8
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְהוָ֛ה
so as the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֛ה
so as the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
5 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֹת֖וֹ
H853
אֹת֖וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
The budded rod miracle (17:1-10) ended the Aaronic priesthood controversy by divine fiat rather than human persuasion. Moses' immediate, complete obedience to preserve the rod as testimony (17:10) ensured future generations would remember God's chosen priestly line.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Moses' formula obedience ('as the LORD commanded... so did he') challenge leadership models prioritizing innovation over faithfulness?
- What 'memorial objects' has God used in your journey to remind you of His past confirmation and calling?
- Why does God often answer challenges to spiritual authority with miraculous confirmation rather than logical argument?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he—This formulaic conclusion (כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּה יְהוָה... כֵּן עָשָׂה ka'asher tzivah YHWH... ken asah) emphasizes Moses' complete obedience in displaying Aaron's miraculously budded rod before the ark (17:10). The repetitive structure underscores that faithful leadership manifests in meticulous execution of divine instructions, not creative improvisation.
Moses' consistent obedience established leadership credibility—the people's challenge to Aaron's priesthood (16:3,41) was answered not by argument but by supernatural confirmation followed by careful compliance with God's memorial instructions. This pattern anticipates Jesus' perfect obedience to the Father's will (John 5:19, 'the Son can do nothing of Himself').