Old Testament
Numbers 9:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes the importance of participating in the Passover celebration for those who are clean and not traveling.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
But anyone who is clean and not on a journey and still fails to celebrate the Passover — that soul must be cut off from his people. Because he did not present the LORD's offering at its appointed time, that man shall bear his sin.
But the man that is clean, and is not in a journey, and forbeareth to keep the passover, even the same soul shall be cut off from among his people: because he brought not the offering of the LORD in his appointed season, that man shall bear his sin.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of participating in the Passover celebration for those who are clean and not traveling. It indicates that failing to observe this significant religious duty results in being cut off from the community. The Passover was a crucial event in Israel's history, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt. The verse highlights the seriousness of neglecting one's responsibilities to God, particularly in offering sacrifices at the right time. The phrase 'bear his sin' suggests that there are consequences for not adhering to God's commands, reinforcing the idea that faithfulness to religious practices is essential for maintaining one's standing within the community. This reflects a broader theme of accountability and the need for individuals to uphold their commitments to God and their community. Explore related atonement.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 9:13 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of fulfilling our commitments to God and participating in communal worship. It encourages us to prioritize our spiritual responsibilities and not take our relationship with God lightly. Regularly engaging in faith practices strengthens our connection to God and our community.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 9:13 mean?
Numbers 9:13 emphasizes the importance of observing the Passover for those who are clean and not traveling. It states that failing to celebrate this significant event results in being cut off from the community, highlighting the seriousness of neglecting religious duties.
What is the significance of the Passover in Numbers 9:13?
The Passover commemorates Israel's deliverance from Egypt and is a vital religious observance. In Numbers 9:13, the verse underscores the obligation to participate in this celebration, reflecting the importance of maintaining one's relationship with God and the community.
What does 'bear his sin' mean in Numbers 9:13?
In Numbers 9:13, 'bear his sin' indicates that there are consequences for failing to fulfill religious obligations. It suggests that neglecting to observe the Passover results in accountability for one's actions and a separation from the community.
Why is community participation important in Numbers 9:13?
Community participation is crucial in Numbers 9:13 because it reinforces the collective identity and faith of the people. The verse illustrates that individual responsibilities to God also affect one's standing within the community.

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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