King James Version

What Does Numbers 5:1 Mean?

Numbers 5:1 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”

Numbers 5:1 · KJV

Context

1

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2

Command the children of Israel, that they put out of the camp every leper, and every one that hath an issue, and whosoever is defiled by the dead:

3

Both male and female shall ye put out, without the camp shall ye put them; that they defile not their camps, in the midst whereof I dwell.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The LORD speaking to Moses reaffirms prophetic authority as the channel for divine law. Each new section in Numbers begins with this formula, establishing that Israel's laws originated not from human wisdom but divine revelation. The Hebrew vaydabber (and He spoke) indicates continued communication—God did not give the law once and fall silent, but continuously instructed His people. This models ongoing revelation that culminated in Christ, through whom God has spoken finally (Hebrews 1:1-2).

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Historical & Cultural Context

The laws in Numbers 5 address ritual purity necessary for maintaining God's presence among His people in the camp. These regulations date to approximately 1445 BC during Israel's second year in the wilderness. The emphasis on purity intensified because God dwelled visibly among them in the tabernacle.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's continuous revelation to Moses comfort us that He still speaks through Scripture?
  2. What difference does it make that biblical laws come from God, not human invention?
  3. How has God's final revelation in Christ surpassed even Mosaic revelation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5

“spake”

H1696

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

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 5:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

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