TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 27:15–23. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here, I. Moses prays for a successor. When God had told him that he must die, though it appears elsewhere that he solicited for a reprieve for himself (Deu 3:24, Deu 3:25), yet, when this could not be obtained, he begged earnestly that the work of God might be carried on, though he might not have the honour of finishing it. Envious spirits do not love their successors, but Moses was not one of these. We should concern ourselves, both in our prayers and in our endeavours, for the rising generation, that religion may flourish, and the interests of God's kingdom among men may be maintained and advanced, when we are in our graves. In this prayer Moses expresses, 1. A tender concern for the people of Israel: That the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep which have no shepherd. Our Saviour uses this comparison in his compassions for the people when they wanted good ministers, Mat 9:36. Magistrates and ministers are the shepherds of a people; if these be wanting, or be not as they should be, people are apt to wander and be scattered abroad, are exposed to enemies, and in danger of wanting food and of hurting one another, as sheep having no shepherd. 2. A believing dependence upon God, as the God of the spirits of all flesh. He is both the former and the searcher of spirits, and therefore can either find men fit or make them fit to serve his purposes, for the good of his church. Moses prays to God, not to send an angel, but to set a man over the congregation, that is, to nominate and appoint one whom he would qualify and own as ruler of his people Israel. Before God gave this blessing to Israel, he stirred up Moses to pray for it: thus Christ, before he sent forth his apostles, called to those about him to pray the Lord of the harvest that he would send forth labourers into his harvest, Mat 9:38.
II.God, in answer to his prayer, appoints him a successor, even Joshua, who had long since signalized himself by his courage in fighting Amalek, his humility in ministering to Moses, and his faith and sincerity in witnessing against the report of the evil spies; this is the man whom God pitches upon to succeed Moses: A man in whom is the Spirit, the Spirit of grace (he is a good man, fearing God and hating covetousness, and acting from principle), the spirit of government (he is fit to do the work and discharge the trusts of his place), a spirit of conduct and courage; and he had also the spirit of prophecy, for the Lord often spoke unto him, Jos 4:1; Jos 6:2; Jos 7:10. Now here,
1.God directs Moses how to secure the succession to Joshua.
(1.)He must ordain him: Lay thy hand upon him, Num 27:18. This was done in token of Moses' transferring the government to him, as the laying of hands on the sacrifice put the offering in the place and stead of the offerer; also in token of God's conferring the blessing of the Spirit upon him, which Moses obtained by prayer. It is said (Deu 34:9), Joshua was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him. This rite of imposing hands we find used in the New Testament in the setting apart of gospel ministers, denoting a solemn designation of them to the office and an earnest desire that God would qualify them for it and own them in it. It is the offering of them to Christ and his church for living sacrifices.
(2.)He must present him to Eleazar and the people, set him before them, that they might know him to be designed of God for this great trust and consent to that designation.
(3.)He must give him a charge, v. 19. He must be charged with the people of Israel, who were delivered into his hand as sheep into the hand of a shepherd, and for whom he must be accountable. He must be strictly charged to do his duty to them; though they were under his command, he was under God's command, and from him must receive charge. The highest must know that there is a higher than they. This charge must be given him in their sight, that it might be the more affecting to Joshua, and that the people, seeing the work and care of their prince, might be the more engaged to assist and encourage him.
(4.)He must put some of his honour upon him, Num 27:20. Joshua at the most had but some of the honour of Moses, and in many instances came short of him; but this seems to be meant of his taking him now, while he lived, into partnership with him in the government and admitting him to act with authority as his assistant. It is an honour to be employed for God and his church; some of this honour must be put upon Joshua, that the people, being used to obey him while Moses lived, might the more cheerfully do it afterwards.
(5.)He must appoint Eleazar the high priest, with this breast-plate of judgment, to be his privy-council (Num 27:21): He shall stand before Eleazar, by him to consult the oracle, ready to receive and observe all the instructions that should be given him by it. This was a direction to Joshua. Though he was full of the Spirit, and had all this honour put upon him, yet he must do nothing without asking counsel of God, not leaning to his own understanding. It was also a great encouragement to him. To govern Israel, and to conquer Canaan, were two hard tasks, but God assures him that in both he should be under a divine conduct; and in every difficult case God would advise him to that which should be for the best. Moses had recourse to the oracle of God himself, but Joshua and the succeeding judges must use the ministry of the high priest, and consult the judgment of urim, which, the Jews say, might not be enquired of but by the king or the head of the sanhedrim, or by the agent or representative of the people, for them, and in their name. Thus the government of Israel was now purely divine, for both the designation and direction of their princes were entirely so. At the word of the priest, according to the judgment of urim, Joshua and all Israel must go out and come in; and no doubt God, who thus guided, would preserve both their going out and their coming in. Those are safe, and may be easy, that follow God, and in all their ways acknowledge him.
2.Moses does according to these directions, Num 27:22, Num 27:23. He cheerfully ordained Joshua,
(1.)Though it was a present lessening to himself, and amounted almost to a resignation of the government. He was very willing that the people should look off from him, and gaze on the rising sun.
(2.)Though it might appear a perpetual slur upon his family. It would not have been so much his praise if he had thus resigned his honour to a son of his own; but with his own hands first to ordain Eleazar high priest, and then Joshua, one of another tribe, chief ruler, while his own children had no preferment at all, but were left in the rank of common Levites, this was such an instance of self-denial and submission to the will of God as was more his glory than the highest advancement of his family could have been; for it confirms his character as the meekest man upon earth, and faithful to him that appointed him in all his house. This (says the excellent bishop Patrick) shows him to have had a principle which raised him above all other lawgivers, who always took care to establish their families in some share of that greatness which they themselves possessed; but hereby it appeared that Moses acted not from himself, because he acted not for himself.
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Summary
Numbers 27:23 records the solemn and public fulfillment of God's explicit command to Moses concerning the transfer of leadership to Joshua. This pivotal moment formally establishes Joshua's divine appointment and authority, ensuring a seamless and divinely sanctioned transition as the Israelites stand on the precipice of entering the Promised Land. It profoundly underscores God's active involvement in raising up and equipping leaders for His people, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness even amidst significant change and the departure of a foundational figure.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as the climactic conclusion to a crucial narrative arc initiated in Numbers 27:12-23. Having been informed by the LORD of his impending death and exclusion from the Promised Land due to his sin at Meribah, Moses expresses a profound pastoral concern for the future of the Israelite congregation. He petitions the LORD to appoint a successor, ensuring the people are not left "like sheep without a shepherd" (Numbers 27:15-17). In response, the LORD unequivocally designates Joshua, identifying him as "a man in whom is the spirit" (Numbers 27:18). God then provides precise, detailed instructions for Joshua's public commissioning: Moses is to present Joshua before Eleazar the priest and the entire congregation, lay his hands on him, and impart some of his "honor" (authority and dignity) upon him (Numbers 27:19-22). Verse 23 confirms that Moses meticulously carried out every detail of this divine instruction, bringing the narrative of succession to its divinely ordained and publicly witnessed conclusion.
Historical & Cultural Context
The events of Numbers 27 unfold as the Israelites are at the very threshold of entering the land of Canaan, marking the culmination of their forty years of wilderness wandering. This period had been defined by direct divine guidance channeled almost exclusively through Moses, who functioned as the supreme prophet, lawgiver, and military leader. The transition from such an indispensable figure was unprecedented and fraught with potential for instability, rebellion, or disunity. In the ancient Near East, public commissioning ceremonies were indispensable for establishing the legitimacy and authority of new leaders, particularly those inheriting significant power or sacred office. The act of "laying on of hands" was a widely recognized symbolic gesture across various cultures, used in contexts such as blessing, healing, ordination, and the transfer of authority or spiritual endowment. For the Israelites, this ritual would have visually and spiritually affirmed Joshua's divine mandate before the entire community, ensuring their acceptance of and submission to his leadership, thus safeguarding the continuity of their national and spiritual journey.
Key Themes
Numbers 27:23 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. The foremost theme is Divine Sovereignty in Leadership, emphasizing that true leadership among God's people is not a matter of human election, ambition, or inheritance, but of God's direct appointment and empowerment. God Himself chooses Joshua, demonstrating His ongoing care and provision for Israel's future, as seen in Numbers 27:18. Another crucial theme is Obedience to Divine Command, highlighted by Moses's faithful execution of every detail "as the LORD commanded." This reinforces the foundational principle that effective leadership and divine blessing flow from strict adherence to God's revealed will. Furthermore, the verse underscores the Continuity of God's Covenant Plan; even with the departure of a leader as monumental as Moses, God's purposes for His people remain unwavering, and He ensures the means for their fulfillment through new, divinely chosen instruments. The act of laying on of hands also introduces the theme of Spiritual Impartation and Empowerment, signifying that Joshua was not merely given a title but was divinely equipped for the immense task of leading Israel into the Promised Land, a theme explicitly affirmed later in Deuteronomy 34:9.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root means "to prop," "to lean upon," or "to support." In this context, when combined with "hands," it signifies a deliberate, purposeful act of placing hands upon someone. It is not a casual touch but a gesture that conveys support, authorization, and the transfer of responsibility or spiritual endowment. This act publicly identifies Joshua as the designated successor and serves as a visible sign of the transfer of Moses's "honor" (authority and dignity) to him, as commanded by God.
This word refers to the "hand" as an open one, often indicating power, means, or direction. When Moses "laid his hands" (çâmak yâd) on Joshua, it was a physical manifestation of the spiritual and authoritative transfer taking place. The hand, as an instrument of action and power, symbolizes the active impartation of authority and the public identification of Joshua as the one now empowered to act on God's behalf.
This primitive root means "to command," "to appoint," or "to enjoin." Here, it refers to the formal commissioning of Joshua, where Moses not only transferred authority through the laying on of hands but also articulated Joshua's specific duties, responsibilities, and the divine mandate he was to carry out as the new leader. This was a public declaration of his role and the expectations associated with it, ensuring clarity and accountability for both Joshua and the congregation.
Verse Breakdown
"And he laid his hands upon him"
This clause describes the physical and symbolic act performed by Moses upon Joshua. It is the direct fulfillment of the LORD's specific instruction in Numbers 27:18. Symbolically, this gesture conveyed the transfer of authority, the imparting of wisdom and spiritual insight, and a public blessing upon Joshua. It served to visibly confirm Joshua's divine appointment and to empower him for the formidable task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, endowing him with a portion of the honor and respect previously accorded to Moses.
"and gave him a charge"
Following the laying on of hands, Moses formally commissioned Joshua. This "charge" was a solemn instruction or mandate, publicly outlining Joshua's new responsibilities and the divine expectations for his leadership. It was not merely a handing over of power but a delegation of a sacred trust and a divine mission, ensuring that Joshua understood the gravity of his role and the specific tasks he was to undertake in guiding the people, particularly in leading them into the Promised Land and conquering its inhabitants.
"as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses"
This concluding phrase emphasizes the divine origin and absolute authority behind the entire commissioning process. It explicitly states that Moses acted in perfect and precise obedience to God's detailed instructions given in Numbers 27:19-22. This affirmation underscores the unimpeachable legitimacy of Joshua's appointment, assuring the congregation that his leadership was not a human decision or a political maneuver but a direct divine mandate, faithfully executed by Moses. It also highlights Moses's unwavering faithfulness even in his final acts of leadership, prioritizing God's will above all else.
Literary Devices
Numbers 27:23 employs several potent literary devices that enrich its meaning and impact. The most prominent is Fulfillment, as the verse explicitly states that Moses carried out the commissioning "as the LORD commanded," bringing the divine directive to its promised completion. This creates a powerful sense of narrative satisfaction and reinforces God's faithfulness to His word. Symbolism is central to the act of "laying on of hands," which transcends a mere physical gesture to represent the impartation of authority, blessing, and spiritual endowment. This symbolic action visually communicates the transfer of leadership and divine approval to the entire congregation, making an abstract concept tangible. Furthermore, the phrase "as the LORD commanded" functions as Emphasis through the repetition of divine mandate, underscoring the absolute authority behind Joshua's appointment and Moses's unwavering obedience. The verse also serves as a critical Transition Narrative, marking the formal and divinely sanctioned handover of leadership from Moses, the foundational figure of the Exodus, to Joshua, who would lead the people into their inheritance, thereby ensuring the continuity of God's redemptive plan for Israel.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 27:23 is a profound theological statement on the nature of leadership within God's people. It reveals that God is intimately involved in the selection, commissioning, and empowerment of those He calls to lead. Leadership is presented not as a self-appointed position, a democratic election, or a dynastic inheritance, but as a divine mandate requiring spiritual qualification ("a man in whom is the spirit") and public affirmation. The seamless transition from Moses to Joshua, facilitated by God's explicit instructions and Moses's faithful obedience, speaks to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises and His people's ultimate destiny. This passage serves as a foundational text for understanding biblical principles of succession, the importance of spiritual authority, and the continuity of God's work across generations. It teaches us that even when great leaders pass on, God remains sovereign, raising up new instruments to fulfill His purposes, ensuring His flock is never without a shepherd.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 27:23 offers timeless principles for leadership, transition, and divine faithfulness that resonate deeply with believers today. It reminds us that God is actively engaged in raising up and equipping leaders for His church and for His purposes in the world. For us, this means recognizing that true spiritual leadership is divinely appointed and empowered, not merely a matter of human charisma, skill, or popularity. We are called to seek God's will in identifying and affirming those He calls to lead, and to support them through prayer, encouragement, and submission to their God-given authority. This verse also highlights the critical importance of healthy and orderly transitions in leadership, emphasizing the need for mentorship, public commissioning, and the faithful transfer of responsibility and spiritual wisdom from one generation to the next. It encourages us to trust God's providence even in moments of significant change or loss, knowing that His overarching plan will continue to unfold through the instruments He chooses and empowers, ensuring the ongoing vitality and mission of His people.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "laying on of hands" in this context?
The "laying on of hands" in Numbers 27:23 is a deeply significant symbolic act. It served primarily to publicly designate Joshua as Moses's divinely chosen successor, signifying the transfer of authority, responsibility, and spiritual endowment. It was a visible and tangible sign to the entire congregation that God's Spirit and Moses's "honor" (authority and dignity) were now upon Joshua, empowering him for the immense task of leading Israel into the Promised Land. This practice is seen throughout the Bible for various purposes, including blessing, healing, and ordination, always indicating a divine impartation, identification, or setting apart for a specific purpose.
Why was a public commissioning necessary for Joshua?
A public commissioning was crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it established Joshua's legitimacy and authority before the entire congregation, ensuring that the people would recognize and submit to his leadership without question. Given Moses's unique and unparalleled role, a private transfer of power would have lacked the necessary weight and visibility to command the respect and obedience of a vast nation. Secondly, it reinforced that Joshua's appointment was from God, not merely a human choice by Moses, thereby preventing any potential challenges to his divine mandate. Finally, it served as a powerful visual and spiritual affirmation, uniting the community behind their new leader and signaling the continuity of God's covenant plan for Israel, even as they faced the daunting task of conquering Canaan.
Does this verse suggest that all leadership transitions must follow this exact pattern?
While the specific ritual of laying on of hands and public commissioning is a powerful model, the verse emphasizes the underlying principles rather than prescribing an identical pattern for all leadership transitions throughout history. The core principles include divine appointment, public affirmation, the transfer of spiritual authority and responsibility, and the faithful obedience of the outgoing leader in preparing the successor. These principles remain vital for healthy and God-honoring leadership succession in the church and other spiritual contexts, even if the outward forms may adapt to different cultural or historical settings. The emphasis is on God's active involvement and the orderly, recognized transfer of a divine mandate, ensuring the continuity of His work.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 27:23, detailing the commissioning of Joshua, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deeper meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Joshua, whose name is the Hebrew equivalent of "Jesus," serves as a powerful type of Christ. Just as Joshua was divinely chosen and empowered by the Spirit to lead God's people into their promised inheritance, so too is Jesus the ultimate Leader, chosen by the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit, to lead His people into the true and eternal rest that Joshua could only foreshadow (Hebrews 4:8-9). Moses, as the Lawgiver, could not bring Israel into the land, just as the Law cannot bring ultimate salvation; it requires a new leader, a new covenant. Jesus, as the incarnate Word (John 1:14), received His "charge" and authority directly from the Father, not through the laying on of human hands, but through divine anointing at His baptism and transfiguration. He then, in turn, commissioned His disciples, imparting His authority and sending them forth with the ultimate "charge" to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). The continuity of God's plan, so evident in Numbers 27:23, culminates in Christ, who is "the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). He is the faithful Shepherd who gathers His flock, the one who truly gives gifts to the church for its edification and leadership (Ephesians 4:11-12), ensuring that His people are never "like sheep without a shepherd" but are perfectly led into their heavenly inheritance.