Old Testament

Numbers 30:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Numbers 30:5, the scripture addresses the authority of a father over his daughter’s vows.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

But if her father forbids her on the day he hears about it, none of her vows or the bonds with which she has bound her soul will stand. The LORD will forgive her, because her father disallowed her.

KJVKing James Version

But if her father disallow her in the day that he heareth; not any of her vows, or of her bonds wherewith she hath bound her soul, shall stand: and the LORD shall forgive her, because her father disallowed her.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 30:5, the scripture addresses the authority of a father over his daughter’s vows. If a daughter makes a vow and her father hears about it, he has the right to disallow it on that same day. If he does so, the vow does not count, and God will forgive her for making it. This reflects the importance of family authority and the responsibility of parents to guide their children. The passage emphasizes that vows made in haste or without proper consideration can be revoked, especially when they conflict with family values or wisdom. It highlights the protective role of a father in ensuring that his daughter does not bind herself to something that may not be in her best interest. This principle can be seen as a reminder of the importance of communication and guidance within families, especially regarding commitments and promises.

Key themes

Related topics

authority, family, commitment

How to apply Numbers 30:5 to your life

This verse encourages open communication within families about commitments and decisions. Parents should guide their children in making wise choices, while children should feel free to discuss their intentions. This fosters a supportive environment where decisions are made thoughtfully and with consideration of family values.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 30:5 mean?

Numbers 30:5 explains that a father has the authority to disallow his daughter's vows on the day he hears about them. If he does so, the vows do not count, and God will forgive her for making them.

What is the significance of a father disallowing vows in Numbers 30:5?

The significance lies in the father's protective role over his daughter, ensuring that her commitments align with family values and wisdom. It emphasizes the importance of parental guidance in decision-making.

What happens if a father disallows his daughter's vow according to Numbers 30:5?

If a father disallows his daughter's vow, it becomes void, and she is forgiven by God for making it. This reflects the authority of the father in guiding his daughter's commitments.

How does Numbers 30:5 relate to family communication?

Numbers 30:5 highlights the need for open communication within families regarding commitments. It encourages parents and children to discuss decisions to ensure they are made thoughtfully.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

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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