Numbers 9

Tyndale Open Study Notes

Verse 1

9:1-14 A year after Israel’s exodus from Egypt, the time came for Israel to celebrate their second Passover in the wilderness of Sinai. Those unable to celebrate it on time were given permission to do so a month later.

Verse 2

9:2-3 The Hebrews were told to celebrate the Passover at the prescribed time (see Exod 12:6). • at twilight: The Hebrew day begins at sundown.

Verse 4

9:4-7 When it was time to celebrate the Passover, some men were prevented by the restrictions of Lev 7:20-21. Their objection arose from a desire to keep the regulation in a case where there seemed to be no good way for them to do so.

Verse 8

9:8 Moses agreed to inquire of the Lord regarding this difficult case (cp. 7:89).

Verse 9

9:9-14 God’s response to the quandary was to allow a makeup ceremony one month later for two special cases (see also 2 Chr 30), but with this provision he warned that the Israelites must not neglect the Passover and must celebrate it according to the regulations.

Verse 12

9:12 The bones of the Passover lamb were not to be broken (see Exod 12:46; Ps 34:20; John 19:32-36; cp. John 1:29; 1 Cor 5:7). The apostle John made reference to this instruction when reporting that Jesus’ legs were not broken on the cross (John 19:36).

Verse 13

9:13 If they ignored the required Passover, they must be cut off from the community. It is not clear whether this refers to the death penalty or banishment (see study note on Lev 7:20-21).

Verse 14

9:14 Foreigners who lived among the Hebrews and wanted to celebrate the Passover could do so by following the same laws, but circumcision was required for males who desired to eat the Passover meal (see also Exod 12:48-49).

Verse 15

9:15-23 This passage parallels Exod 40:17, 34-38 and provides additional details about God’s use of the pillar of cloud and fire to lead his people (see also Exod 13:21-22). The Lord faithfully and unmistakably guided his people in the wilderness.

Verse 19

9:19-23 The fiery cloud, witnessed even by Israel’s enemies (14:14), was a clear symbol of God’s glorious presence and the means by which he directed their movement.