What number verse is Numbers 29:40 in the Bible?

Numbers 29:40 is the 4,649th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Numbers 29:40 sits at position 4,649.

Translation

King James Version

And Moses told the children of Israel according to all that the LORD commanded Moses.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses ^H4872 told ^H559 the children ^H1121 of Israel ^H3478 according to all that the LORD ^H3068 commanded ^H6680 Moses ^H4872.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe told the people of Isra'el everything, just as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

So Moses spoke all this to the Israelites just as the LORD had commanded him.

Ask

American Standard Version

And Moses told the children of Israel according to all that Jehovah commanded Moses.

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

Moses told the children of Israel according to all that the LORD commanded Moses.

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Consolidated into verse 39 by this translation.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

And Moses saith unto the sons of Israel according to all that Jehovah hath commanded Moses.

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Numbers 29:40 serves as a powerful concluding statement to the detailed instructions for the sacrificial offerings associated with Israel's major annual feasts, particularly the elaborate requirements for the Feast of Tabernacles. This concise verse underscores the divine origin and absolute authority of the laws given to Israel through Moses, while simultaneously affirming Moses' unwavering faithfulness in accurately transmitting every single divine directive to the people without alteration or omission. It marks the completion of a significant block of divine legislation and sets the stage for its implementation, emphasizing the integrity of divine revelation and the mediator's fidelity.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Numbers 29:40 concludes a lengthy and meticulously detailed section (Numbers 28-29) dedicated to the specific daily, weekly, monthly, and annual offerings required for Israel's communal worship. Chapters 28 and 29 meticulously outline the burnt offerings, sin offerings, and drink offerings for various festivals: the Passover, the Feast of Weeks, the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the eight-day Feast of Tabernacles. The instructions for the Feast of Tabernacles alone span Numbers 29:12-38, detailing a diminishing number of bulls to be sacrificed each day, alongside other animals. Following such an exhaustive and precise enumeration of sacrifices, verse 40 acts as a final, authoritative summary, affirming that all these intricate commands were faithfully conveyed. It functions as a narrative "bookend," signaling the end of this legislative segment and the transition from divine decree to human responsibility and the subsequent narrative of Israel's journey.
Historical & Cultural Context: The book of Numbers chronicles Israel's wilderness journey from Sinai to the plains of Moab, a period marked by divine provision, repeated rebellion, and the establishment of theocratic law. The giving of these sacrificial laws was crucial for structuring Israel's communal worship and maintaining their covenant relationship with Yahweh. In the ancient Near East, religious rituals and offerings were central to national identity and appeasing deities. However, Israel's system was unique in its monotheistic focus and the direct, detailed revelation from God, mediated through Moses. The emphasis on "all that the LORD commanded" highlights the distinction between Israel's divinely revealed laws and the often-arbitrary or human-derived religious practices of surrounding nations. The meticulous nature of the instructions also reflects the holiness of God and the seriousness with which Israel was to approach Him in worship, ensuring purity and order in their devotion.
Key Themes: This verse, though brief, powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes present throughout the Pentateuch and the book of Numbers. Firstly, it emphasizes Divine Authority and Sovereignty, reiterating that the laws governing Israel's worship and life originated solely with Yahweh, establishing His absolute rule over His people, a theme foundational to the entire covenant relationship beginning in the giving of the Law at Sinai. Secondly, it highlights Moses' Faithful Mediation, portraying him as the trustworthy conduit of God's word, a role consistently affirmed, as seen in Numbers 12:7 where God Himself testifies to Moses' faithfulness. His fidelity ensures the purity and integrity of the divine revelation. Thirdly, the phrase "according to all" underscores the Completeness and Sufficiency of God's commands, implying that nothing was left out or added, which is a crucial principle for divine revelation, echoed later in Deuteronomy 4:2. Finally, by communicating these laws, Moses placed upon the Children of Israel the Responsibility for Obedience, a recurring demand throughout the wilderness narrative and a cornerstone of the Mosaic Covenant, as articulated in Deuteronomy 6:25.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

told (Hebrew, ʼâmar', H559): This verb (H559) signifies to say, speak, declare, or command. In the context of Moses' role, it denotes a formal, authoritative, and comprehensive communication. Moses did not merely "chat" or "suggest" to the Israelites; he formally and completely declared the divine directives. The choice of ʼâmar emphasizes the effective and understandable transmission of God's intricate instructions to the entire community, ensuring they heard and comprehended the divine will.
commanded (Hebrew, tsâvâh', H6680): The verb (H6680) denotes a strong, authoritative injunction or order. It implies a binding directive, not a suggestion or a request. When the LORD "commanded" Moses, it was an imperative, leaving no room for negotiation or deviation. This word underscores the absolute authority of the source of the laws—God Himself—and the non-negotiable nature of the requirements for Israel's worship and conduct. It highlights the divine prerogative to set terms for His relationship with His people.

Verse Breakdown

"And Moses told the children of Israel": This initial clause immediately establishes Moses' central and indispensable role as the divinely appointed mediator. After receiving the extensive and intricate details of the sacrificial system for the festivals directly from God, Moses faithfully undertakes the critical task of communicating these commands to the entire community. This highlights his responsibility to God and the people's direct reception of God's will through him. It implies a public, thorough, and understandable declaration, ensuring that the people were fully informed of their obligations and the divine expectations.
"according to all that the LORD commanded Moses": This phrase is the theological linchpin of the verse, serving as a powerful affirmation of divine authority and human fidelity. The adverbial phrase "according to all" emphasizes the absolute precision, completeness, and unwavering fidelity of Moses' transmission. He did not omit, add to, or alter any part of the divine revelation. Every detail, no matter how minute or demanding, was conveyed precisely as received from Yahweh. This underscores the divine origin of the laws, ensuring their inherent authority and binding nature, and simultaneously affirms Moses' integrity and trustworthiness as God's chosen prophet and messenger, a model for all who handle God's word.

Literary Devices

The verse employs Repetition and Emphasis to underscore its core message of faithful transmission. The name "Moses" appears twice, once as the subject who "told" and once as the object of God's "command," creating a clear chain of authority and communication. Similarly, the verb "commanded" appears twice, once referring to God's action and once to the content of Moses' message, reinforcing the divine origin and binding nature of the instructions. This deliberate repetition creates a strong sense of Inclusio or Bookending, drawing a clear line from God's command to Moses' faithful delivery. The structure itself emphasizes the direct, unadulterated flow of divine authority from Yahweh, through Moses, to the children of Israel. It functions as a definitive Summary Statement or Concluding Formula, providing a clear and authoritative close to the preceding legislative section and affirming the legitimacy and completeness of the intricate instructions.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Numbers 29:40 is a concise yet profound statement on divine authority, faithful mediation, and the responsibility of God's people to obey His revealed will. It serves as a reminder that God's commands are not arbitrary human constructs but emanate directly from His holy character, requiring precise and complete adherence. Moses' role as a faithful conveyor of this truth sets a precedent for all who would handle God's word, emphasizing the crucial importance of accurate transmission and the avoidance of adding to or subtracting from divine revelation. This principle is foundational to the integrity of the covenant and the purity of worship, ensuring that Israel's relationship with God is built upon His terms, not their own interpretations or preferences.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Numbers 29:40 offers enduring lessons for believers today, prompting deep reflection on the nature of divine authority and the integrity of God's Word. Just as the Israelites were bound by the commands delivered through Moses, so too are we called to live in submission to the revealed will of God in Holy Scripture. This verse challenges us to examine our own hearts: Do we receive God's Word "according to all that the LORD commanded," or do we selectively pick and choose, or even subtly alter its meaning to suit our preferences, cultural norms, or personal comfort? For those who teach, preach, or lead in any capacity, Moses' example is a powerful reminder of the solemn responsibility to accurately and faithfully declare God's truth, without compromise, embellishment, or personal agenda. Our individual spiritual health and the collective health of the church depend on an unwavering commitment to the full counsel of God, received and transmitted with the same fidelity Moses demonstrated.

Questions for Reflection

How does the emphasis on "all that the LORD commanded Moses" challenge my own tendency to pick and choose which biblical commands to obey or to rationalize away difficult truths?
In what ways can I, like Moses, strive to be a faithful conduit of God's truth in my sphere of influence, ensuring I do not add to or subtract from its intended meaning?
What practical steps can I take to deepen my understanding and application of "all that the LORD commanded" in my daily life, fostering greater obedience and trust?

FAQ

Why is Numbers 29:40, a seemingly simple concluding verse, considered significant?

Answer: Numbers 29:40 is significant precisely because of its simplicity and strategic placement. It acts as a powerful summary statement, affirming two critical theological truths after a lengthy and complex set of instructions. First, it unequivocally declares the divine origin and absolute authority of all the preceding laws concerning the sacrificial system for Israel's feasts. The phrase "all that the LORD commanded Moses" leaves no doubt that these were not human innovations but direct divine decrees, establishing God as the sole lawgiver. Second, it highlights Moses' unparalleled faithfulness as God's mediator. In a context where human leaders might be tempted to simplify, modify, or omit difficult commands, Moses' fidelity in communicating "according to all" demonstrates his integrity and trustworthiness, a fidelity that God Himself attested to in Numbers 12:7. This verse, therefore, solidifies the legitimacy of the entire body of law just presented and underscores the importance of accurate divine revelation for the purity of worship and the integrity of the covenant.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Numbers 29:40, with its emphasis on Moses' faithful transmission of "all that the LORD commanded," finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfection in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Moses was a faithful servant in God's house, bearing witness to what would be spoken later (Hebrews 3:5), Jesus is the Son over God's house (Hebrews 3:6). Moses delivered the Law, but Jesus perfectly embodied and fulfilled it, declaring, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17). He is the ultimate Prophet, greater than Moses, through whom God has spoken His final and complete word to humanity (Deuteronomy 18:18; Hebrews 1:1-2). Unlike Moses, who merely conveyed commands, Jesus is the living Word of God made flesh (John 1:1; John 1:14). His entire life was an act of perfect obedience to "all that the Father commanded" Him, always doing what pleased the Father (John 8:29; Philippians 2:8). Thus, Numbers 29:40 foreshadows the perfect revelation and faithful obedience found in Christ, who not only declared God's will but perfectly accomplished it, becoming the ultimate sacrifice to which all the detailed offerings Moses conveyed pointed (Hebrews 10:1-10).

Copy as

Commentary on Numbers 29 verses 12–40

12 ¶ And on the fifteenth day of the seventh month ye shall have an holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work, and ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days:

13 And ye shall offer a burnt offering, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; thirteen young bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year; they shall be without blemish:

14 And their meat offering shall be of flour mingled with oil, three tenth deals unto every bullock of the thirteen bullocks, two tenth deals to each ram of the two rams,

15 And a several tenth deal to each lamb of the fourteen lambs:

16 And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.

17 And on the second day ye shall offer twelve young bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:

18 And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

19 And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and the meat offering thereof, and their drink offerings.

20 And on the third day eleven bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish;

21 And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

22 And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.

23 And on the fourth day ten bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:

24 Their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

25 And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.

26 And on the fifth day nine bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:

27 And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

28 And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.

29 And on the sixth day eight bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:

30 And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

31 And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.

32 And on the seventh day seven bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year without blemish:

33 And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

34 And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, his meat offering, and his drink offering.

35 On the eighth day ye shall have a solemn assembly: ye shall do no servile work therein:

36 But ye shall offer a burnt offering, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD: one bullock, one ram, seven lambs of the first year without blemish:

37 Their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullock, for the ram, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:

38 And one goat for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering.

39 These things ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your vows, and your freewill offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for your peace offerings.

40 And Moses told the children of Israel according to all that the LORD commanded Moses.

Soon after the day of atonement, that day in which men were to afflict their souls, followed the feast of tabernacles, in which they were to rejoice before the Lord; for those that sow in tears shall soon reap in joy. To the former laws about this feast, which we had, Lev 23:34, etc., here are added directions about the offerings by fire, which they were to offer unto the Lord during the seven days of that feast, Lev 23:36. Observe here, 1. Their days of rejoicing were to be days of sacrifices. A disposition to be cheerful does us no harm, nor is any bad symptom, when it is so far from unfitting us for the duties of God's immediate service that it encourages and enlarges our hearts in them. 2. All the days of their dwelling in booths they must offer sacrifices. While we are here in a tabernacle-state, it is our interest as well as duty constantly to keep up communion with God; nor will the unsettledness of our outward condition excuse us in our neglect of the duties of God's worship. 3. The sacrifices for each of the seven days, though differing in nothing but the number of the bullocks, are severally and particularly appointed, which yet is no vain repetition; for God would thus teach them to be very exact in those observances, and to keep an eye of faith fixed upon the institution in every day's work. It likewise intimates that the repetition of the same services, if performed with an upright heart, and with a continued fire of pious and devout affection, is no weariness to God, and therefore we ought not to snuff at it, or to say, Behold, what a weariness it is to us! 4. The number of bullocks (which were the most costly part of the sacrifice) decreased every day. On the first day of the feast they were to offer thirteen, on the second day but twelve, on the third day eleven, etc. So that on the seventh they offered seven; and the last day, though it was the great day of the feast, and celebrated with a holy convocation, yet they were to offer but one bullock; and, whereas on all the other days they offered two rams and fourteen lambs, on this they offered but one ram and seven lambs. Such was the will of the Law-maker, and that is reason enough for the law. Some suggest that God herein considered the infirmity of the flesh, which is apt to grudge the charge and expense of religion; it is therefore ordered to grow less and less, that they might not complain as if God had made them to serve with an offering, Isa 43:23. Or it is hereby intimated to them that the legal dispensation should wax old, and vanish away at last; and the multitude of their sacrifices should end in one great sacrifice, infinitely more worthy than all of them. It was on the last day of the feast, after all these sacrifices had been ordered, that our Lord Jesus stood and cried to those who still thirsted after righteousness (being sensible of the insufficiency of these sacrifices to justify them) to come unto him and drink, Joh 7:37. 5. The meat-offerings and drink-offerings attended all the sacrifices, according to their number, after the manner. Be there ever so much flesh, it is no feast without bread and drink, therefore these must never be omitted at God's altar, which was his table. We must not think that doing much in religion will be accepted if we do not do it well, and after the manner that God has appointed. 6. Every day there must be a sin-offering presented, as we observed in the other feasts. Our burnt-offerings of praise cannot be accepted of God unless we have an interest in the great sacrifice of propitiation which Christ offered when for us he made himself a sin-offering. 7. Even when all these sacrifices were offered, yet the continual burnt-offering must not be omitted either morning or evening, but each day this must be offered first in the morning and last in the evening. No extraordinary services should jostle out our stated devotions. 8. Though all these sacrifices were required to be presented by the body of the congregation, at the common charge, yet, besides these, particular persons were to glorify God with their vows and their free-will offerings, Num 29:39. When God commanded that this they must do, he left room for the generosity of their devotion, a great deal more they might do, not inventing other worships, but abounding in these, as Ch2 30:23, Ch2 30:24. Large directions had been given in Leviticus concerning the offerings of all sorts that should be brought by particular persons according to the providences of God concerning them and the graces of God in them. Though every Israelite had an interest in these common sacrifices, yet he must not think that these will serve instead of his vows and his free-will offerings. Thus our ministers' praying with us and for us will not excuse us from praying for ourselves.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 12–40. Public domain.

Copy as

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

Copy as

Continue studying Numbers 29:40 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.

Cross-References

Hebrews 3:2
Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.
Matthew 28:20
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
1 Corinthians 15:3
For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
Deuteronomy 4:5
Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.
Acts 20:27
For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
Hebrews 3:5
And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;
Exodus 40:16
¶ Thus did Moses: according to all that the LORD commanded him, so did he.