Numbers 6:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When either man or woman shall separate [themselves] to vow a vow of a Nazarite, to separate [themselves] unto the LORD:

Speak {H1696} unto the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, and say {H559} unto them, When either man {H376} or woman {H802} shall separate {H6381} themselves to vow {H5087} a vow {H5088} of a Nazarite {H5139}, to separate {H5144} themselves unto the LORD {H3068}:

"Tell the people of Isra'el, 'When either a man or a woman makes a special kind of vow, the vow of a nazir, consecrating himself to ADONAI;

“Speak to the Israelites and tell them that if a man or woman makes a special vow, the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the LORD,

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When either man or woman shall make a special vow, the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself unto Jehovah,

Commentary

Numbers 6:2 introduces the unique and voluntary practice of the Nazarite vow, an ancient Israelite tradition allowing individuals to consecrate themselves specially to the Lord for a set period.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in the Book of Numbers that outlines various laws and regulations for the children of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness. Following detailed instructions on offerings and priestly duties, chapter 6 specifically addresses personal vows, beginning with the Nazarite. Unlike many laws that were commanded for all, the Nazarite vow was entirely voluntary, demonstrating a deeper level of devotion and personal commitment to God beyond the standard requirements of the Mosaic Law.

Key Themes

  • Separation and Consecration: The core concept of the Nazarite vow is "separation." The individual separates themselves unto the LORD, setting aside normal activities and habits to dedicate themselves fully to Him for a specified time. This act signified a profound desire for holiness and intimate fellowship with God.
  • Voluntary Devotion: Emphasized by the phrase "When either man or woman shall separate themselves to vow," this was a personal and uncoerced decision. It highlights that true devotion often stems from a willing heart, not merely from obligation.
  • Inclusivity of Gender: Significantly, the text specifies "either man or woman," indicating that this high level of spiritual commitment and personal consecration was accessible to both genders in ancient Israel. This underscores the spiritual equality of men and women before God in their capacity for devotion.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Nazarite" (Hebrew: Nazir or Nazirite) literally means "one who is separated" or "consecrated." It derives from a root meaning "to separate" or "to set apart." The repetition of "to separate [themselves] unto the LORD" in this verse powerfully reinforces the central idea: the entire purpose of the vow was to be distinct and dedicated to God alone. This is distinct from the Nazarenes, a later sect, and refers solely to this specific vow.

Practical Application

While the specific practices of the Nazarite vow are not observed today, the principles behind it remain profoundly relevant for believers. The concept of voluntary separation unto the Lord encourages us to live lives set apart for God's purposes. This means:

  • Intentional Consecration: Committing to a life of holiness and devotion, choosing to abstain from things that hinder spiritual growth and embracing practices that draw us closer to God.
  • Personal Devotion: Recognizing that our walk with God is a personal journey, requiring individual choices to honor Him in all areas of life, as highlighted in 1 Peter 2:9, which calls believers "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people."
  • Living a Distinct Life: Though not bound by specific dietary or hair restrictions, believers are called to be distinct from the world, reflecting Christ's character and values in their daily lives.

The Nazarite vow serves as an Old Testament illustration of radical devotion, a spirit of consecration that God still desires in His people today.

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Cross-References

  • Judges 13:5 (8 votes)

    For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.

  • Amos 2:11 (6 votes)

    And I raised up of your sons for prophets, and of your young men for Nazarites. [Is it] not even thus, O ye children of Israel? saith the LORD.

  • Amos 2:12 (6 votes)

    But ye gave the Nazarites wine to drink; and commanded the prophets, saying, Prophesy not.

  • Romans 1:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

  • Hebrews 7:27 (3 votes)

    Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.

  • Luke 1:15 (2 votes)

    For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.

  • Exodus 33:16 (2 votes)

    For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth.