Old Testament
Numbers 9:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Tell the Israelites: 'If any of you or your descendants become unclean from contact with a dead body, or are away on a long journey, you may still celebrate the Passover to the LORD.
Compare translations
Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If any man of you or of your posterity shall be unclean by reason of a dead body, or be in a journey afar off, yet he shall keep the passover unto the LORD.
What Numbers 9:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God provides instructions to the Israelites regarding the observance of the Passover. It acknowledges that some individuals may become ceremonially unclean due to contact with a dead body or may be away on a long journey. Despite these circumstances, they are still permitted to celebrate the Passover. This reflects God's understanding of human situations and His desire for all to participate in this important religious observance. The Passover is a significant event that commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, and God ensures that those who are unable to participate due to external factors are still given the opportunity to honor this tradition. This inclusivity emphasizes the importance of the Passover and God's grace in allowing His people to maintain their connection to Him, even when faced with challenges.
How to apply Numbers 9:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to find ways to engage in our faith, even when life presents obstacles. Whether due to personal struggles or external circumstances, we can seek to honor our commitments to God and community, ensuring that we remain connected to our spiritual practices.
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.

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 PlansAsk AI about Numbers 9:10
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 9:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 9:10 say about Passover for the unclean?
Numbers 9:10 states that if any Israelite or their descendants become unclean due to contact with a dead body or are away on a long journey, they are still allowed to celebrate the Passover. This provision shows God's understanding of human circumstances and His desire for everyone to participate in this important religious observance.
Why is Passover significant in Numbers 9:10?
Passover is significant as it commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Numbers 9:10 emphasizes that despite being unclean or away, individuals can still honor this tradition, highlighting the importance of the Passover in maintaining a connection with God and the community.
How does Numbers 9:10 reflect God's grace?
Numbers 9:10 reflects God's grace by allowing those who are unclean or away on a journey to still participate in the Passover. This inclusivity demonstrates God's understanding of human limitations and His desire for all to engage in worship, reinforcing the idea that faith can be practiced despite life's challenges.
What can we learn from Numbers 9:10 about worship?
From Numbers 9:10, we learn that worship should be inclusive and adaptable to individual circumstances. It encourages believers to find ways to engage in their faith, even when faced with obstacles, reminding us that maintaining our spiritual practices is important for our relationship with God and community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.