Numbers 6:20 – “The priest shall then wave these before the Lord as a wave offering; they are holy and belong to the priest, together with the breast that was waved and the thigh that was presented. After that, the Nazirite may drink wine.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 6:20 describes the final ritual in completing a Nazirite’s vow. After the Nazirite has shaved their head and presented the required offerings, the priest takes the boiled shoulder of the ram, along with the unleavened bread and other portions, and waves them before the Lord as a wave offering. This action symbolizes presenting these items directly to God, acknowledging His provision and blessing. The portions are considered holy and belong to the priest, representing the priest’s share of the sacrifices, a common practice in Israelite worship.
After these offerings are made, the Nazirite is permitted to drink wine again, marking the end of their period of abstinence and special dedication. This moment is significant because it symbolizes a return to normal life after a season of intense focus on God. The Nazirite’s vow, which involved abstaining from certain things to be set apart for God, is now fulfilled, and they can resume regular activities. The ritual acts of waving and presenting offerings are a final acknowledgment of God’s involvement in the Nazirite’s dedication.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, the Nazirite vow was a unique way for individuals to set themselves apart for God, often for a specific period. This vow included abstaining from wine, avoiding contact with dead bodies, and not cutting one’s hair. At the end of the vow, the Nazirite underwent a series of rituals, including sacrifices and the shaving of their head, to signify the conclusion of their commitment.
The wave offering was a distinct part of the sacrificial system where certain portions of the sacrifice were symbolically lifted and waved before the Lord. This act signified that the offering was given to God first, and the portions returned to the priest were considered holy. The priest’s involvement underscored the communal aspect of the sacrifice, with the offerings benefiting both God’s service and those who served in the temple.
The allowance for the Nazirite to drink wine again marked a return to normal life, symbolizing that the special period of dedication was successfully completed and accepted by God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 6:20 highlights the completion of a vow and the joy that comes with fulfilling a commitment to God. The act of waving the offerings before the Lord represents an acknowledgment that all acts of dedication are ultimately directed toward God. The sharing of the offerings with the priest underscores the idea that worship benefits the entire community, not just the individual making the offering.
This verse also teaches about the rhythm of dedication and normalcy in the Christian life. While there are seasons of special focus and sacrifice, God also values our return to regular life, lived out with faithfulness. The permission for the Nazirite to drink wine again illustrates that God’s blessings include joy, celebration, and the enjoyment of His gifts.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 6:20 uses descriptive actions like “wave” to illustrate the dynamic nature of the worship experience. The waving of the offering is a vivid gesture, symbolizing the connection between God and the worshipper. It’s not just a ritual act but a meaningful conclusion that recognizes God’s role in the Nazirite’s journey.
The verse’s structure moves from the specific actions of the priest to the release of the Nazirite back into everyday life. This transition is significant because it emphasizes that dedication to God is not only about the act of separation but also about the reintegration into the community, now enriched by the experience of dedicated worship.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 7:30-34 – Describes the wave offering and the portions given to the priests, highlighting the communal and sacrificial aspects of worship.
- Exodus 29:27 – The wave offering is a part of the consecration of priests, showing its significance in dedicating both people and offerings to God.
- Romans 12:1 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship,” drawing a parallel to the idea of dedication and offering our lives to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 6:20 serves as a reminder of the importance of fulfilling our commitments to God and the joy that comes with completing a season of dedication. It teaches us that while there are times for intense focus and sacrifice, there is also a time to return to normal life, carrying the lessons and blessings from those special times with us. The act of waving the offerings before the Lord encourages us to acknowledge God in all that we do, recognizing that our acts of worship are directed toward Him.
This verse also highlights the value of community in worship. Just as the priest shared in the offerings, our acts of dedication should benefit not only ourselves but also those around us. It reminds us that our spiritual journey is not just about personal growth but also about contributing to the community of faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Numbers 6:20 reflects God’s love and delight in His people’s dedication. God not only accepts the Nazirite’s commitment but also provides a way for them to celebrate the completion of their vow. Allowing the Nazirite to drink wine again symbolizes God’s joy in seeing His people fulfill their promises and then enjoy the good things He provides. It shows that God values both our dedication and our enjoyment of His blessings.
The sharing of the offerings with the priest also illustrates God’s provision for those who serve Him, showing His care for every aspect of His people’s lives. God’s love is evident in the way He orchestrates these rituals, ensuring that everyone—worshipper, priest, and community—is blessed by the act of dedication.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate fulfillment of all vows and sacrifices described in the Old Testament. While the Nazirite’s wave offering was a way to acknowledge God’s presence and provision, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was the final, perfect offering that brings us into eternal fellowship with God. In Hebrews 7:27, we read, “Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day… He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.”
Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection make it possible for us to live in continuous fellowship with God, no longer needing to present wave offerings or other sacrifices. His offering was complete and final, granting us access to God and allowing us to live in the joy and freedom of His grace. Through Christ, we are invited to celebrate our relationship with God every day, just as the Nazirite celebrated the completion of their vow.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are some ways you can acknowledge God in your daily life, similar to the Nazirite’s wave offering?
- How does completing a spiritual commitment bring you joy, and how can you celebrate those moments with God?
- In what ways can your acts of dedication and worship benefit your community and those around you?
- How does Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice change the way you think about offerings and dedication to God?
- What does it mean for you to return to “normal” life after a season of dedication, and how can you carry the lessons learned into your daily walk?
This verse encourages us to fulfill our commitments to God, celebrate His faithfulness, and enjoy the blessings of a life lived in dedication to Him. May we seek to honor God in all we do, recognizing His presence in every part of our spiritual journey.