King James Version

What Does Numbers 15:37 Mean?

Numbers 15:37 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, — study this verse from Numbers chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Numbers 15:37 · KJV


Context

35

And the LORD said unto Moses, The man shall be surely put to death: all the congregation shall stone him with stones without the camp.

36

And all the congregation brought him without the camp, and stoned him with stones, and he died; as the LORD commanded Moses.

37

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

38

Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders a ribband of blue:

39

And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God commanded Israel to make fringes on their garments—visual reminders of all His commandments. This followed the Sabbath-breaker's execution, providing positive instruction after negative example. The fringes transformed everyday clothing into constant prompts for obedience, demonstrating that holiness must pervade all of life, not merely religious moments.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

These tassels (tzitzit in Hebrew) became distinctive marks of Jewish identity, worn by faithful Israelites throughout their history. Jesus wore them (Matthew 9:20), as did Pharisees who made theirs ostentatiously large (Matthew 23:5). The practice continues in observant Judaism today.

Reflection Questions

  1. What visual or physical reminders help you remember God's commands throughout daily life?
  2. How can you make holiness a constant awareness rather than occasional concern?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
לֵּאמֹֽר׃1 of 5

saying

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5

And the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מֹשֶׁ֥ה4 of 5

unto Moses

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

לֵּאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

saying

H559

to say (used with great latitude)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 15:37 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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