Old Testament
Numbers 15:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 15:26, God assures the Israelites that if they sin unintentionally, they will be forgiven.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The whole community of Israel will be forgiven, including any foreigners living among them, since the entire people sinned unintentionally.
And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and the stranger that sojourneth among them; seeing all the people were in ignorance.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 15:26, God assures the Israelites that if they sin unintentionally, they will be forgiven. This verse emphasizes God's mercy and the importance of community. It highlights that both Israelites and foreigners living among them are included in this forgiveness, showing that God's grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries. The concept of unintentional sin suggests that not all wrongdoing is deliberate, and God understands human frailty. This passage reassures the community that they are not beyond redemption, even when they fail to uphold God's laws. It reflects the idea that God desires a relationship with His people, and forgiveness is available to all who seek it, regardless of their background. This inclusivity reinforces the notion that everyone is part of God's family, and His compassion is vast. The verse encourages believers to recognize their shortcomings and seek forgiveness, fostering a spirit of unity and understanding within the community.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 15:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our mistakes and seek forgiveness, both from God and from others. It reminds us that everyone makes unintentional errors and that we should extend grace to ourselves and those around us. Embracing this principle fosters a supportive community where individuals can grow and learn together.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 15:26 mean?
Numbers 15:26 means that God offers forgiveness to the entire community of Israel, including foreigners, for unintentional sins. It highlights God's mercy and the idea that mistakes made without intent can be forgiven.
What is the significance of unintentional sin in Numbers 15:26?
Unintentional sin in Numbers 15:26 signifies that not all wrongdoing is deliberate, and God understands human frailty. This concept reassures the community that they can still receive forgiveness even when they fail to follow God's laws.
Who is included in the forgiveness mentioned in Numbers 15:26?
The forgiveness mentioned in Numbers 15:26 includes both the Israelites and any foreigners living among them. This shows that God's grace extends beyond ethnic boundaries and is available to all.
What themes are present in Numbers 15:26?
The themes present in Numbers 15:26 include forgiveness, community, inclusivity, unintentional sin, God's mercy, redemption, and grace. These themes emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting one another.

The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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