King James Version
What Does Numbers 17:11 Mean?
“And Moses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he.”
Numbers 17:11 · KJV
Context
9
And Moses brought out all the rods from before the LORD unto all the children of Israel: and they looked, and took every man his rod.
10
And the LORD said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's rod again before the testimony, to be kept for a token against the rebels ; and thou shalt quite take away their murmurings from me, that they die not. rebels: Heb. children of rebellion
11
And Moses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he.
12
And the children of Israel spake unto Moses, saying, Behold, we die, we perish, we all perish.
13
Whosoever cometh any thing near unto the tabernacle of the LORD shall die: shall we be consumed with dying?
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryMoses did so: as the LORD commanded him, so did he—This formulaic conclusion (כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּה יְהוָה... כֵּן עָשָׂה ka'asher tzivah YHWH... ken asah) emphasizes Moses' complete obedience in displaying Aaron's miraculously budded rod before the ark (17:10). The repetitive structure underscores that faithful leadership manifests in meticulous execution of divine instructions, not creative improvisation.
Moses' consistent obedience established leadership credibility—the people's challenge to Aaron's priesthood (16:3,41) was answered not by argument but by supernatural confirmation followed by careful compliance with God's memorial instructions. This pattern anticipates Jesus' perfect obedience to the Father's will (John 5:19, 'the Son can do nothing of Himself').
Moses' consistent obedience established leadership credibility—the people's challenge to Aaron's priesthood (16:3,41) was answered not by argument but by supernatural confirmation followed by careful compliance with God's memorial instructions. This pattern anticipates Jesus' perfect obedience to the Father's will (John 5:19, 'the Son can do nothing of Himself').
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The budded rod miracle (17:1-10) ended the Aaronic priesthood controversy by divine fiat rather than human persuasion. Moses' immediate, complete obedience to preserve the rod as testimony (17:10) ensured future generations would remember God's chosen priestly line.
Reflection Questions
- How does Moses' formula obedience ('as the LORD commanded... so did he') challenge leadership models prioritizing innovation over faithfulness?
- What 'memorial objects' has God used in your journey to remind you of His past confirmation and calling?
- Why does God often answer challenges to spiritual authority with miraculous confirmation rather than logical argument?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsכַּֽאֲשֶׁ֨ר3 of 8
H834who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְהוָ֛ה5 of 8
“so as the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֹת֖וֹ6 of 8
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כֵּ֥ן7 of 8
H3651properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
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 17:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.