Numbers 17:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 17:13
13 Whosoever cometh any thing near unto the tabernacle of the LORD shall die: shall we be consumed with dying?
Chapter Context
Numbers 17 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, fellowship, salvation. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 17:13
13 Whosoever cometh any thing near unto the tabernacle of the LORD shall die: shall we be consumed with dying?
Analysis
Whosoever cometh any thing near unto the tabernacle of the LORD shall die: shall we be consumed with dying?—The rhetorical question (הַאִם תַּמְנוּ לִגְווֹעַ ha'im tamnu ligvo'a, 'shall we cease from dying?') expresses resignation to inevitable death. The phrase cometh any thing near (הַקָּרֵב הַקָּרֵב haqarev haqarev, double verb form) emphasizes any approach whatsoever to God's dwelling resulted in death for unauthorized persons.
This verse sets up God's answer in chapter 18—establishing priestly duties, tithes, and offerings to maintain sanctified access to divine presence. Israel's question 'shall we be consumed with dying?' receives God's response: 'No, but you must honor the priestly system I've established.' The New Testament fulfills this by Christ's once-for-all sacrifice opening the way into the Holy of Holies (Hebrews 9:11-12).
Historical Context
Chapter 18 directly responds to this verse's terrified question by delineating priestly and Levitical responsibilities that would protect the congregation from divine wrath. God's solution to Israel's fear was not abolishing holiness requirements but establishing proper mediatorial systems.
Reflection
- How does this verse's terror of approaching God illuminate the magnitude of Christ's achievement in opening access to the throne?
- What does Israel's question 'shall we be consumed?' teach about the incompatibility of human sin and divine holiness?
- How should churches balance reverence for God's holiness with celebration of Christ-purchased access to His presence?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord