King James Version

What Does Numbers 17:7 Mean?

Numbers 17:7 in the King James Version says “And Moses laid up the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Moses laid up the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness.”

Numbers 17:7 · KJV

Context

5

And it shall come to pass, that the man's rod, whom I shall choose, shall blossom: and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you.

6

And Moses spake unto the children of Israel, and every one of their princes gave him a rod apiece, for each prince one , according to their fathers' houses, even twelve rods: and the rod of Aaron was among their rods. a rod: Heb. a rod for one prince, a rod for one prince

7

And Moses laid up the rods before the LORD in the tabernacle of witness.

8

And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.

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.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Aaron's rod alone had budded, brought forth blossoms, and yielded almonds—three stages of fruit from a dead stick overnight. This miraculous abundance demonstrated that God's chosen servant would be extraordinarily fruitful. The progression from bud to blossom to fruit symbolized complete, mature ministry flowing from divine election rather than human striving.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Almond trees were first to bloom in spring, their name in Hebrew (shaqed) meaning 'awakening' or 'watching.' The almond symbolized watchfulness and prompt fulfillment of God's word (Jeremiah 1:11-12). Aaron's rod bearing almonds signified that his priesthood would faithfully watch over and fulfill God's purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. What fruit in your life demonstrates God's calling and empowerment?
  2. How can you distinguish between forced human effort and organic spiritual fruitfulness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיַּנַּ֥ח1 of 8

“laid up”

H3240

to deposit; by implication, to allow to stay

מֹשֶׁ֛ה2 of 8

“And Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

אֶת3 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַמַּטֹּ֖ת4 of 8

“the rods”

H4294

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

לִפְנֵ֣י5 of 8

“before”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

יְהוָ֑ה6 of 8

“the LORD”

H3068

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

בְּאֹ֖הֶל7 of 8

“in the tabernacle”

H168

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

הָֽעֵדֻֽת׃8 of 8

“of witness”

H5715

testimony

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 17:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 17:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Acts 7:44Exodus 38:21Numbers 18:2

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