“Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If any man of you or of your posterity shall be unclean by reason of a dead body, or be in a journey afar off, yet he shall keep the passover unto the LORD.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible, which recounts the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is instructed to speak to the children of Israel regarding the observance of the Passover.
The Passover: The Passover was a significant annual festival observed by the Israelites to commemorate their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It was instituted in Exodus 12, and its observance involved sacrificing a lamb and applying its blood to the doorposts of the houses, as a sign for the Lord to pass over and spare the firstborn of the Israelites.
The Requirement for Keeping Passover: In Numbers 9:10, the Lord addresses the issue of ceremonial uncleanness or being on a journey during the time of the Passover. According to the Law of Moses, touching a dead body would render a person ceremonially unclean (Numbers 19:11-13). Additionally, if someone was on a journey far away and couldn’t physically be present at the designated place of worship, they would also be unable to observe the Passover.
Exception for Uncleanness or a Journey: Despite the general requirement to be ceremonially clean and present for the Passover, Numbers 9:10 provides an exception for those who are unclean due to contact with a dead body or are on a journey far away. In such cases, they are still commanded to keep the Passover to the Lord. This exception ensured that no individual or their descendants would be excluded from participating in this important celebration, even in such circumstances.
Spiritual Significance: The Passover holds rich symbolism and spiritual significance. It not only served as a memorial of God’s deliverance from Egypt but also foreshadowed the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. As Christians, we see Jesus as the perfect Passover Lamb whose blood was shed for our redemption from sin and death (1 Corinthians 5:7). Therefore, the observance of the Passover points us to Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross and our salvation through faith in Him.
Application: While the specific context of Numbers 9:10 pertains to the Israelites and their observance of the Passover, we can draw some general principles from this verse. Firstly, it emphasizes God’s desire for inclusivity and His provision for those who might be hindered from fulfilling a religious obligation due to exceptional circumstances. Secondly, it highlights the importance of honoring and commemorating significant events in our spiritual journey.
In conclusion, Numbers 9:10 underscores the exception made for those who were ceremonially unclean or on a journey far away, allowing them to still observe the Passover. This verse demonstrates God’s consideration for various situations and His desire for all individuals to participate in the commemoration of their deliverance. As Christians, we can also reflect on the spiritual significance of the Passover and its connection to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who brings ultimate redemption.
