Old Testament
Numbers 15:17
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The LORD spoke to Moses and said,
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And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
What Numbers 15:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 15:17, God communicates directly with Moses, emphasizing the importance of following His commands. This verse sets the stage for the instructions that follow regarding offerings and sacrifices. It highlights the relationship between God and His people, where God provides guidance and Moses acts as the mediator. The act of speaking signifies a personal connection, showing that God is actively involved in the lives of the Israelites. This moment underscores the significance of obedience to God's laws and the rituals that are to be established. The instructions that follow in this chapter will detail how the Israelites are to worship and maintain their covenant with God, reinforcing the idea that their actions are a reflection of their faith and commitment to Him. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the divine authority and the necessity of adhering to God's directives in all aspects of life.
How to apply Numbers 15:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek God's guidance in our lives. Just as Moses received direct instructions from God, we too can look for divine direction through prayer and scripture. Following God's commands helps us stay aligned with His will.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
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Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Numbers 15:17
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 15:17 mean?
Numbers 15:17 shows God speaking directly to Moses, highlighting the importance of following His commands. It emphasizes the relationship between God and His people, where God provides guidance and Moses acts as a mediator.
What instructions follow Numbers 15:17?
Following Numbers 15:17, God provides detailed instructions regarding offerings and sacrifices that the Israelites are to follow. These guidelines reinforce their covenant with God and their commitment to worship.
How can we apply the message of Numbers 15:17 today?
We can apply the message of Numbers 15:17 by seeking God's guidance in our lives through prayer and scripture. Following God's commands helps us align with His will and maintain a strong relationship with Him.
What themes are present in Numbers 15:17?
The themes present in Numbers 15:17 include divine communication, obedience, covenant, worship, guidance, and leadership. These themes highlight the importance of following God's directives in our lives.
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