Old Testament

Numbers 30:2

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

When a man makes a vow to the LORD or swears an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he must not break his word. He must do everything he promised.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.

What Numbers 30:2 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes the importance of keeping promises made to God. When a person makes a vow or an oath, they are entering into a serious commitment that should not be taken lightly. The act of vowing is a way to bind oneself to a promise, and breaking that promise is seen as a failure to honor one's word. This teaching highlights the value of integrity and faithfulness in one's commitments, especially in a spiritual context. It serves as a reminder that our words carry weight and that we should be careful about what we promise. The expectation is clear: if you say you will do something, you must follow through. This principle applies not only to vows made to God but also to commitments made in everyday life, reinforcing the idea that honesty and reliability are essential virtues.

How to apply Numbers 30:2 to your life

In daily life, be mindful of the promises you make, whether to God or others. Strive to follow through on your commitments, as this builds trust and reflects your character. Consider the weight of your words before making vows.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Daniel

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Bethel

Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 30:2

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Numbers 30:2

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 30:2 mean?

Numbers 30:2 emphasizes the importance of keeping vows made to God. It teaches that when someone makes a promise or an oath, they are expected to fulfill it without breaking their word.

What is the significance of vows in Numbers 30:2?

The significance of vows in Numbers 30:2 lies in the commitment they represent. Making a vow is a serious act that binds a person to their promise, highlighting the value of integrity and faithfulness.

How does Numbers 30:2 apply to everyday life?

Numbers 30:2 applies to everyday life by reminding us to be mindful of the promises we make. It encourages us to follow through on our commitments, fostering trust and reliability in our relationships.

Why is it important not to break vows according to Numbers 30:2?

It is important not to break vows according to Numbers 30:2 because doing so reflects a lack of integrity and dishonors one's commitments. Keeping promises is essential for building trust and maintaining honor in relationships.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.