Old Testament
Numbers 17:13
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"Anyone who even comes near the LORD's Tabernacle dies! Are we all going to be wiped out?"
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Whosoever cometh any thing near unto the tabernacle of the LORD shall die: shall we be consumed with dying?
What Numbers 17:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people express their fear of approaching the LORD's Tabernacle, which symbolizes God's presence among them. They are acutely aware of the strict boundaries set by God regarding who can come near the Tabernacle. The statement reflects their anxiety about the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of God's holiness. The phrase 'shall we be consumed with dying?' indicates their concern that if they continue to approach God without proper reverence and adherence to His commands, they might face dire consequences. This highlights the importance of understanding God's holiness and the need for respect and caution when approaching Him. The fear of death serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and the necessity of following God's instructions to maintain a relationship with Him.
How to apply Numbers 17:13 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of approaching God with reverence and understanding the seriousness of our relationship with Him. It encourages us to respect God's commands and recognize the boundaries He has set for our spiritual lives. In our worship and daily lives, we should seek to honor God and be mindful of His holiness.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Aaron's Staff Buds (Numbers 17:1–13)
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Moses
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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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 17:13 mean?
Numbers 17:13 reflects the people's fear of approaching the LORD's Tabernacle, emphasizing the strict boundaries God set regarding His holiness. They express concern that their disobedience could lead to dire consequences, highlighting the seriousness of their relationship with God.
What is the significance of the Tabernacle in Numbers 17:13?
The Tabernacle represents God's presence among the Israelites, and the verse underscores the importance of approaching it with reverence. It serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for proper conduct when coming near Him.
What does 'shall we be consumed with dying?' mean in Numbers 17:13?
The phrase 'shall we be consumed with dying?' indicates the people's anxiety about facing death if they approach God without proper respect. It highlights their fear of the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of God's commands.
How can we apply the message of Numbers 17:13 today?
We can apply the message of Numbers 17:13 by approaching God with reverence and respect in our worship and daily lives. It encourages us to recognize the importance of following God's commands and understanding the boundaries He has set.
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