Numbers 9:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the first month of the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying,

And the LORD {H3068} spake {H1696} unto Moses {H4872} in the wilderness {H4057} of Sinai {H5514}, in the first {H7223} month {H2320} of the second {H8145} year {H8141} after they were come out {H3318} of the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}, saying {H559},

ADONAI spoke to Moshe in the Sinai Desert in the first month of the second year after they had left the land of Egypt; he said,

In the first month of the second year after Israel had come out of the land of Egypt, the LORD spoke to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai:

And Jehovah spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the first month of the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying,

Commentary

Numbers 9:1 marks a precise moment in the biblical narrative, setting the stage for crucial instructions regarding the Passover observance. This verse immediately follows the completion of the Tabernacle and the consecration of the Levites, establishing a new chronological starting point for God's directives to Israel.

Context

This verse provides a specific timestamp: "in the first month of the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt." This means it occurs almost exactly one year after the original Exodus event and the institution of the first Passover. The Israelites are still encamped in the wilderness of Sinai, a pivotal location where they received the Law (Exodus 20) and constructed the Tabernacle (Exodus 25-40). The meticulous dating highlights the structured and orderly nature of God's dealings with His people, emphasizing that divine commands are given at specific, appointed times.

Key Themes

  • Divine Authority and Communication: The phrase "And the LORD spake unto Moses" underscores God's direct and authoritative communication with His chosen leader. This highlights God's active involvement in guiding and directing His people through the wilderness journey.
  • Precise Chronology and Divine Order: The exact dating ("first month of the second year") is significant. It emphasizes God's meticulous planning and the importance of timing in His divine calendar. This precision sets the stage for the command to observe the Passover for the second time, reinforcing its perpetual significance.
  • Preparation for Future Journey: The instructions that follow this verse (the command for the second Passover) are crucial for preparing the Israelites for their impending departure from Sinai and their continued journey towards the Promised Land. It demonstrates God's continuous provision for their spiritual and physical needs.

Practical Application

Numbers 9:1 reminds us that God is a God of order and purpose. Just as He gave precise instructions to Moses for the Israelites' journey and worship, He continues to guide believers today. This verse encourages us to recognize God's timing in our lives, trusting that His commands and guidance are always for our good. It also underscores the importance of remembering and observing spiritual milestones, much like the Passover was to be a perpetual ordinance for Israel, reminding them of God's great deliverance.

Reflection

This opening verse to Numbers chapter 9 serves as more than just a historical marker; it is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. It sets the stage for a critical reminder about obedience to divine ordinances, even as the Israelites prepared for new phases of their journey. The wilderness of Sinai, a place of profound encounter, continues to be the backdrop for God's unfolding plan, preparing His people for what lies ahead.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tabernacle of the congregation, on the first [day] of the second month, in the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying,

  • Exodus 40:2 (3 votes)

    On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.