Neither must the children of Israel hencefoorth come nigh the Tabernacle of the Congregation, lest they beare sinne, and die. Numbers 18:22 (KJV)
The book of Numbers records the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt and contains a wide range of laws, commandments, and instructions given by God to Moses for the organization and worship of the Israelite community. In chapter 18 God outlines the duties and responsibilities of the Levites, the priestly tribe, and specifies the portion of offerings they were to receive.
Numbers 18:22 gives a clear directive concerning the people’s access to the tabernacle of the congregation. The verse states, “The children of Israel shall not go near the holy thing, lest they die,” and in the KJV rendering adds, “lest they bear sin, and die.” The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God’s presence, housing the Ark of the Covenant and serving as the central location for worship and sacrifice.
The restriction is rooted in the holiness of God and the sinful nature of the people. Approaching the holy presence without proper atonement or purification would result in death, so God established boundaries to protect the Israelites from the fatal consequences of their sinfulness.
The Levites were consecrated as intermediaries between the people and God. Their role was to minister in the tabernacle on behalf of the nation, offering sacrifices and performing the rituals necessary to maintain the sanctity of the holy space.
This verse serves as a reminder of God’s absolute holiness and the need for reverence when approaching Him. It highlights the importance of recognizing our own sinfulness and the necessity of forgiveness and purification before we can draw near to the divine.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as the ultimate high priest and perfect sacrifice. Through His death on the cross, He provides a way for all people to enter God’s presence. Hebrews 10:19‑22 declares, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus… let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings.”
While the specific tabernacle regulations are not directly applicable today, the underlying principles of reverence, obedience, and holiness remain timeless. Believers are called to respect the boundaries God sets, to follow the instructions of Scripture, and to worship with humility and deep respect for His holiness.
In summary, Numbers 18:22 emphasizes the holiness of God, the need for purification, and the role of Christ as the mediator who grants us safe access to God’s presence. As we worship and serve, let us do so with humility, obedience, and a profound respect for the divine holiness.
