Old Testament
Numbers 6:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The priest will then wave them as a wave offering before the LORD. This is holy for the priest, along with the wave breast and the heave shoulder. After this, the Nazirite may drink wine.
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And the priest shall wave them for a wave offering before the LORD: this is holy for the priest, with the wave breast and heave shoulder: and after that the Nazarite may drink wine.
What Numbers 6:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the priest performs a ceremonial act by waving specific offerings before God. These offerings include the wave breast and the heave shoulder, which are considered holy and set apart for the priest's use. This ritual signifies the completion of the Nazirite vow, a period of dedication to God. After the offerings are presented, the Nazirite is allowed to return to normal life, which includes drinking wine, something they abstained from during their vow. This moment marks a transition from a state of separation back to everyday life, emphasizing the importance of rituals in maintaining a relationship with God and the community.
How to apply Numbers 6:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of rituals and ceremonies in our spiritual lives. Just as the Nazirite completed their vow with a wave offering, we too can celebrate milestones in our faith journey. Engaging in meaningful practices can help us reconnect with our commitments and community.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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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 6:20 mean?
Numbers 6:20 describes a ritual where the priest waves specific offerings before God, marking the end of a Nazirite's vow. This act signifies the transition back to normal life, allowing the Nazirite to drink wine after a period of abstinence.
What is the significance of the wave offering in Numbers 6:20?
The wave offering in Numbers 6:20 symbolizes the priest's role in presenting holy gifts to God. It highlights the importance of rituals in expressing devotion and the completion of the Nazirite vow.
What is a Nazirite vow as mentioned in Numbers 6:20?
A Nazirite vow is a commitment to dedicate oneself to God, often involving abstaining from wine and other restrictions. Numbers 6:20 indicates the conclusion of this vow through a ceremonial offering.
Why can the Nazirite drink wine after the offering in Numbers 6:20?
After the wave offering is presented by the priest, the Nazirite is allowed to drink wine, signifying the end of their period of separation and dedication to God.
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