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Commentary on Numbers 9 verses 1–14
Here we have,
I. An order given for the solemnization of the passover, the day twelvemonth after they came out of Egypt, on the fourteenth day of the first month of the second year, some days before they were numbered, for that was done in the beginning of the second month. Observe, 1. God gave particular orders for the keeping of this passover, otherwise (it should seem) they would not have kept it, for, in the first institution of this ordinance, it was appointed to be kept when they should come into the land of promise, Exo 12:25. And, no passover till they came to Canaan, Jos 5:10. This was an early indication of the abolishing of the ceremonial institutions at last, that, so soon after they were first appointed, some of them were suffered to lie asleep for so many years. The ordinance of the Lord's supper (which came in the room of the passover) was not thus intermitted or set aside in the first days of the Christian church, though those were days of greater difficulty and distress than Israel knew in the wilderness; nay, in the times of persecution, the Lord's supper was celebrated more frequently than afterwards. The Israelites in the wilderness could not forget their deliverance out of Egypt, their present state was a constant memorandum of it to them. All the danger was when they came to Canaan; there therefore they had need to be reminded of the rock out of which they were hewn. However, because the first passover was celebrated in a hurry, and was rather the substance itself than the sign, it was the will of God that at the return of the year, when they were more composed, and better acquainted with the divine law, they should observe it again, that their children might more distinctly understand the solemnity and the better remember it hereafter. Calvin supposes that they were obliged to keep it now, and notes it as an instance of their carelessness that they had need to be reminded of an institution which they so lately received. 2. Moses faithfully transmitted to the people the orders given him, Num 9:4. Thus Paul delivered to the churches what he received of the Lord concerning the gospel passover, Co1 11:23. Note, Magistrates must be monitors, and ministers must stir up men's minds by way of remembrance to that which is good. 3. The people observed the orders given them, Num 9:5. Though they had lately kept the feast of dedication (ch. 7), yet they did not desire to excuse themselves with that from keeping this feast. Note, Extraordinary performances must not supersede or jostle out or stated services. They kept the passover even in the wilderness: though our condition be solitary and unsettled, yet we must keep up our attendance on God by holy ordinances as we have opportunity, for in them we may find the best conversation and the best repose. Thus is God' Israel provided for in a desert.
II. Instructions given concerning those that were ceremonially unclean when they were to eat the passover. The law of the passover required every Israelite to eat of it. Some subsequent laws had forbidden those that had contracted any ceremonial pollution to eat of the holy things; those whose minds and consciences are defiled by sin are utterly unfit for communion with God, and cannot partake, with any true comfort, of the gospel passover, till they are cleansed by true repentance and faith: and a sad dilemma they are in; if they come not to holy ordinances, they are guilty of a contempt of them; if they do come in their pollution, they are guilty of a profanation of them. They must therefore wash, and then compass God's altar. Now,
1.Here is the case that happened in Israel when this passover was to be kept: Certain men were defiled by the dead body of a man (Num 9:6), and they lay under that defilement seven days (Num 19:11), and in that time might not eat of the holy things, Lev 7:20. This was not their iniquity, but their infelicity: some persons must touch dead bodies, to bury them out of sight, and therefore they could, with the better grace, bring their complaint to Moses.
2.The application made to Moses by the person concerned, Num 9:7. Note, It is people's wisdom, in difficult cases concerning sin and duty, to consult with their ministers whom God has set over them, and to ask the law at their mouth, Mal 2:7. These means we must use in pursuance of our prayers to God to lead us in a plain path. Observe with what trouble and concern these men complained that they were kept back from offering to the Lord. They did not complain of the law as unjust, but lamented their unhappiness that they fell under the restraint of it at this time, and desired some expedient might be found out for their relief. Note, It is a blessed thing to see people hungering and thirsting after God's ordinances, and to hear them complaining of that which prevents their enjoyment of them. It should be a trouble to us when by any occasion we are kept back from bringing our offering in the solemnities of a sabbath or a sacrament, as it was to David when he was banished from the altar, Psa 42:1, Psa 42:2.
3.The deliberation of Moses in resolving this case. Here seemed to be law against law; and, though it is a rule that the latter law must explain the former, yet he pitied these Israelites that were thus deprived of the privilege of the passover, and therefore took time to consult the oracles, and to know what was the mind of God in this case: I will hear what the Lord will command concerning you, Num 9:8. Ministers must take example hence in resolving cases of conscience. (1.) They must not determine rashly, but take time to consider, that every circumstance may be duly weighted, the case viewed in a true light, and spiritual things compared with spiritual. (2.) They must ask counsel at God's mouth, and not determine according to the bias of their own fancy or affection, but impartially, according to the mind of God, to the best of their knowledge. We have no such oracle to consult as Moses had, but we must have recourse to the law and the testimony, and speak according to that rule; and if, in difficult cases, we take time to spread the matter in particular before God by humble believing prayer, we have reason to hope that the Spirit who is promised to lead us into all truth will enable us to direct others in the good and right way.
4.The directions which God gave in this case, and in other similar cases, explanatory of the law of the passover. The disagreeable accident produced good laws. (1.) Those that happened to be ceremonially unclean at the time when the passover should be eaten were allowed to eat it that day month, when they were clean; so were those that happened to be in a journey afar off, Num 9:10, Num 9:11. See here, [1.] That when we are to attend upon God in solemn ordinances it is very necessary both that we be clean and that we be composed. [2.] That that may excuse the deferring of a duty for a time which yet will not justify us in the total neglect and omission of it. He that is at variance with his brother may leave his gift before the altar, while he goes to be reconciled to his brother; but when he has done his part towards it, whether it be effected or no, he must come again and offer his gift, Mat 5:23, Mat 5:24. This secondary passover was to be kept on the same day of the month with the first, because the ordinance was a memorial of their deliverance on that day of the month. Once we find the whole congregation keeping the passover on this fourteenth day of the second month, in Hezekiah's time (Ch2 30:15), which perhaps may help to account for the admission of some that were not clean to the eating of it. Had the general passover been kept in the first month, the unclean might have been put off till the second; but, that being kept in the second month, they had no warrant to eat it in the third month, and therefore, rather than not eat of it at all, they were admitted, though not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary, Num 9:19, Num 9:20. (2.) Whenever the passover was kept in the second month, all the rites and ceremonies of it must be strictly observed, Num 9:12. They must not think that, because the time was dispensed with, any part of the solemnity of it might be abated; when we cannot do as we would we must do the utmost we can in the service of God. (3.) This allowance in a case of necessity would be no means countenance or indulge any in their neglect to keep the passover at the time appointed, when they were not under the necessity, Num 9:13. When a person is under no incapacity to eat the passover in the appointed time, if he neglects it then, upon the presumption of the liberty granted by this law, he puts an affront upon God, impiously abuses his kindness, and he shall certainly bear his sin, and be cut off from his people. Note, As those who against their minds are forced to absent themselves from God's ordinances may comfortably expect the favours of God's grace under their affliction, so those who of choice absent themselves may justly expect the tokens of God's wrath for their sin. Be not deceived, God is not mocked. (4.) Here is a clause added in favour of strangers, Num 9:14. Though it was requisite that the stranger who would join with them in eating the passover should be circumcised as a proselyte to their religion (Exo 12:48, Exo 12:49), yet this kind admission of those that were not native Israelites to eat the passover was an intimation of the favour designed for the poor Gentiles by Christ. As then there was one law, so in the days of the Messiah there should be one gospel, for the stranger and for him that was born in the land; for in every nation he that fears God and works righteousness is accepted of him, and this was a truth before Peter perceived it, Act 10:34, Act 10:35.
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SUMMARY
Numbers 9:5 meticulously records the second observance of the Passover by the children of Israel, taking place precisely on the fourteenth day of the first month at twilight, while they were still encamped in the demanding wilderness of Sinai. This verse powerfully underscores Israel's unwavering and meticulous obedience to every detail of the divine command given through Moses, demonstrating their faithfulness to the covenant even amidst the challenging and transient conditions of their nomadic journey.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Numbers 9:5 is situated within a distinct section (Numbers 9:1-14) that specifically addresses the observance of the Passover, serving as a direct fulfillment of the Lord's instruction given in the preceding verses, Numbers 9:1-2. This passage falls after the detailed census of the tribes (Numbers 1-4), the laws concerning purity and restitution (Numbers 5), and the regulations for Nazirite vows and priestly blessings (Numbers 6). It also follows the elaborate account of the offerings made by the tribal leaders for the dedication of the Tabernacle (Numbers 7) and the consecration of the Levites (Numbers 8). This moment of collective obedience precedes the significant narrative shift in Numbers 10, where Israel finally departs from Mount Sinai, embarking on the long and often rebellious journey through the wilderness. Thus, Numbers 9:5 stands as a poignant affirmation of Israel's faithfulness at a critical juncture before their subsequent failures.
Historical & Cultural Context: The historical setting for Numbers 9:5 finds the Israelites encamped at the foot of Mount Sinai, approximately one year after their miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage. This location was profoundly significant, as it was here that God had established His covenant with Israel, delivered the Ten Commandments, and provided the detailed blueprints for the Tabernacle and its associated laws, as recorded throughout Exodus 19-40 and Leviticus 1-27. The Passover itself was not a new institution; it was a foundational covenantal feast, first observed in Egypt as the prelude to the Exodus (Exodus 12). Its observance in the "wilderness of Sinai" highlights a crucial theological point: God's commands were binding regardless of Israel's geographical location or transient status. Despite the logistical challenges of performing such a complex ritual in a nomadic setting, the precise adherence to the "fourteenth day of the first month at even" underscores their commitment to the divine calendar and their covenant obligations. This act of obedience reaffirmed their identity as God's redeemed people, chosen and set apart.
Key Themes: Numbers 9:5 contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive throughout the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Obedience to Divine Command, which is explicitly stated in the concluding phrase, emphasizing Israel's adherence to "all that the LORD commanded Moses." This moment of faithfulness stands in stark contrast to the recurring theme of Rebellion and Disobedience that will characterize much of Israel's subsequent wilderness journey, particularly from Numbers 11 onwards. The verse also reinforces the theme of Covenant Faithfulness, as the Passover itself is a central covenantal institution, reminding Israel of God's redemptive act and their unique relationship with Him. Furthermore, the setting "in the wilderness of Sinai" highlights the theme of God's Presence and Provision in the Wilderness, demonstrating that even in challenging, unsettled circumstances, God's commands are to be observed, and His presence is active among His people. Finally, the meticulous timing and location underscore the theme of Divine Order and Specificity in Worship, reflecting God's precise requirements for His people's spiritual life, a theme echoed in the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its rituals found in Exodus 25-40 and Leviticus.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 9:5 employs several subtle yet effective literary devices. The most prominent is Repetition, specifically through the recurring phrase "according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did the children of Israel." This precise formulation, or variations of it, appears frequently throughout Exodus and Numbers, functioning as a powerful rhetorical device to underscore the completeness and exactness of Israel's obedience. It serves as an emphatic affirmation of their faithfulness to the divine mandate at this specific point in their journey. Furthermore, the verse subtly employs Contrast when viewed against the broader narrative of Numbers. This moment of perfect, collective obedience stands in stark contrast to the numerous instances of murmuring, rebellion, and disobedience that will characterize the Israelites' subsequent wilderness wanderings (e.g., Numbers 11:1-6). By highlighting this initial faithfulness, the text implicitly foreshadows the importance of obedience while simultaneously setting a benchmark against which later failures can be measured. Finally, the Passover itself is rich in Symbolism, representing deliverance, sacrifice, and the covenant relationship, and its observance in the wilderness reinforces its enduring significance beyond a specific geographical location.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 9:5 profoundly underscores the centrality of obedience to God's revealed will as the non-negotiable foundation of the covenant relationship. It teaches that divine commands are not optional suggestions but binding directives, whose authority transcends geographical location or challenging circumstances. The meticulous observance of the Passover in the wilderness serves as a powerful reminder of God's redemptive power and Israel's identity as His chosen people, emphasizing the themes of remembrance, covenant faithfulness, and the absolute authority of God's word. This act of obedience also highlights the importance of precise adherence to divine instruction, setting a standard for future generations and demonstrating that true worship involves diligent conformity to God's revealed will.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 9:5 offers a timeless and powerful challenge for contemporary believers, urging us to consider the depth of our own obedience to God's commands. Just as Israel was called to observe the Passover in the challenging "wilderness of Sinai," we too are called to maintain our spiritual disciplines and faithfulness to God's word regardless of our life circumstances, whether in seasons of prosperity or adversity. This verse reminds us that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but is demonstrated through active, intentional, and often costly obedience. It prompts us to remember God's past acts of deliverance and faithfulness in our own lives, allowing that remembrance to fuel our present and future commitment to Him. Our obedience, like Israel's, should be a response to God's authority and a reflection of our covenant relationship with Him, demonstrating that we trust His wisdom and love above our own understanding or convenience. This passage encourages us to seek not just partial compliance, but a wholehearted and meticulous adherence to God's will in every area of our lives, recognizing that such obedience is an act of worship and a testament to His sovereignty.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was it important for Israel to keep the Passover in the wilderness of Sinai?
Answer: It was critically important for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated that God's commands were not geographically limited or dependent on comfortable, settled circumstances. Even in the transient, challenging environment of the wilderness, God's law was binding. Secondly, it reinforced Israel's covenant identity and obligation. The Passover was a foundational feast commemorating their deliverance from Egypt, and its observance reminded them who they were as God's redeemed people, even before entering the Promised Land. Thirdly, it served as a test and affirmation of their obedience to the Mosaic Law, which they had recently received at Mount Sinai. This act of faithfulness at the beginning of their journey set a precedent for future obedience and showed their commitment to the divine calendar and instructions.
Is this the first Passover observance mentioned in the Bible?
Answer: No, this is not the first Passover observance mentioned in the Bible. The first Passover was instituted and observed in Egypt just before the Exodus, as detailed comprehensively in Exodus 12. That initial Passover was the pivotal event that led to Israel's liberation from slavery. The observance in Numbers 9:5 is the second recorded Passover, taking place approximately one year later, while Israel was still encamped at Mount Sinai. This second observance signifies a renewed commitment to God's commands and covenant after receiving the Law, highlighting the ongoing importance of this foundational feast for their national and spiritual identity.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous observance of the Passover in Numbers 9:5, with its emphasis on the sacrificial lamb and deliverance from death, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, whose perfect, once-for-all sacrifice on the cross delivers humanity not merely from physical bondage but from the spiritual slavery to sin and the certainty of eternal death (Hebrews 9:11-14). Just as the blood of the Passover lamb protected Israel, so the shed blood of Christ inaugurates a new covenant, providing atonement and access to God for all who believe (Matthew 26:28). The New Testament portrays Christ as "our Passover lamb" who "has been sacrificed" (1 Corinthians 5:7), transcending the shadow of the Old Testament ritual with the reality of His saving work. Our obedience as New Covenant believers is no longer primarily a legalistic adherence to external commands, but a Spirit-empowered response of gratitude and love, flowing from our identification with Christ's death and resurrection. We remember His sacrifice through the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) and live lives transformed by His grace, presenting ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1-2), demonstrating our faithfulness to the One who perfectly fulfilled all that the Law and the Prophets foreshadowed.