Numbers 27:23

And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses.

And he laid {H5564} his hands {H3027} upon him, and gave him a charge {H6680}, as the LORD {H3068} commanded {H1696} by the hand {H3027} of Moses {H4872}.

laid his hands on him, and commissioned him, as ADONAI had said through Moshe.

and laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD had instructed through Moses.

and he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as Jehovah spake by Moses.

Commentary

Numbers 27:23 records the fulfillment of God's command regarding the succession of leadership from Moses to Joshua. This verse marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating the formal transfer of authority and divine approval for the next leader.

Context

This verse concludes the narrative initiated when Moses, recognizing his impending death and the need for continued leadership for the Israelites, requested the LORD to appoint a successor (Numbers 27:15-17). The LORD chose Joshua, identifying him as "a man in whom is the spirit" (Numbers 27:18). Moses was commanded to publicly commission Joshua before Eleazar the priest and the entire congregation, imparting some of his honor to him. Verse 23 confirms that Moses faithfully carried out every detail of this divine instruction, ensuring a seamless and divinely sanctioned transition of leadership.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment and Succession: The passage underscores that leadership in God's people is not merely a human choice but a divine mandate. God Himself selected Joshua, emphasizing His ongoing guidance and provision for Israel.
  • Laying on of Hands: Moses's act of laying hands on Joshua was a symbolic gesture of impartation of authority, blessing, and spiritual endowment. It signified the transfer of leadership and the empowering of Joshua for his immense task. This practice has parallels in later biblical traditions for ordination and commissioning (e.g., Acts 6:6, 1 Timothy 4:14).
  • Obedience to God's Command: The phrase "as the LORD commanded by the hand of Moses" highlights Moses's unwavering obedience to God's specific instructions. This reinforces the principle that effective leadership and divine blessing flow from adherence to God's will.
  • Continuity of God's Plan: Even with the passing of a great leader like Moses, God's plan for His people continued uninterrupted. Joshua's commissioning ensured the continuity of guidance and the fulfillment of the journey to the Promised Land.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "laid his hands upon him" is samak yadav al (במך Χ™Χ“Χ™Χ• גל), which literally means "to lean his hands upon." This gesture often conveyed the act of leaning, supporting, or imparting. In the context of leadership and blessing, it signifies the transfer of authority, responsibility, and spiritual anointing. The "charge" given to Joshua (Hebrew: yatsav, "to set, appoint, command") was a formal commissioning, outlining his duties and responsibilities as the new leader.

Significance and Application

Numbers 27:23 offers timeless lessons on leadership, transition, and divine faithfulness. It teaches us that God is actively involved in raising up and equipping leaders for His purposes, even when previous leaders step down or pass on. For believers today, this verse emphasizes the importance of:

  • Seeking God's Will in Leadership: Whether in the church, family, or community, the principle of divine appointment reminds us to seek God's guidance in choosing and affirming leaders.
  • Honoring Transitions: Healthy transitions of leadership are crucial for the continuity of any organization, especially spiritual ones. This verse provides a model for orderly, public, and divinely sanctioned succession.
  • Equipping and Empowering Successors: Moses didn't just name Joshua; he publicly commissioned him, giving him a "charge" and imparting authority. This speaks to the responsibility of current leaders to mentor and empower those who will follow them.
  • Trusting God's Providence: Even in moments of significant change, like the departure of a foundational leader, God remains sovereign and faithful to His promises, ensuring His work continues through new instruments (Joshua 1:5).
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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 3:28 (3 votes)

    But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.

  • Numbers 27:19 (3 votes)

    And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight.

  • Deuteronomy 31:7 (2 votes)

    And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.

  • Deuteronomy 31:8 (2 votes)

    And the LORD, he [it is] that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.