Numbers 6:22

Translations

King James Version (KJV)

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,

American King James Version (AKJV)

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,

American Standard Version (ASV)

And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying,

Basic English Translation (BBE)

And the Lord said to Moses,

Webster's Revision

And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,

World English Bible

Yahweh spoke to Moses, saying,

English Revised Version (ERV)

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Barnes's Numbers 6:22 Bible Commentary

The priestly blessing (compare Ecclus. 36:17) is appointed as a solemn form to be used by the priests exclusively, and in this function their office as it were culminates (compare Leviticus 9:22 note). God Himself provides a formula, through which from time to time, as His people by obedience place themselves in true and right relationship to Him, the authorised mediators may pronounce and communicate His special blessing to them. It was a Jewish tradition that this blessing was given at the close of the daily sacrifice.

The structure of the blessing is remarkable. It is rhythmical, consists of three distinct parts, and mounts by gradual stages to that peace which forms the last and most consummate gift which God can give His people.

From a Christian point of view, and comparing the counterpart benediction of 2 Corinthians 13:14, it is impossible not to see shadowed forth the doctrine of the Holy Trinity (compare Isaiah 6:3; Matthew 28:19). And the three several sets of terms correspond fittingly to the office of the Three Persons in Their gracious work for the redemption of man.