King James Version

What Does Numbers 5:10 Mean?

Numbers 5:10 in the King James Version says “And every man's hallowed things shall be his: whatsoever any man giveth the priest, it shall be his. — study this verse from Numbers chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And every man's hallowed things shall be his: whatsoever any man giveth the priest, it shall be his.

Numbers 5:10 · KJV


Context

8

But if the man have no kinsman to recompense the trespass unto, let the trespass be recompensed unto the LORD, even to the priest; beside the ram of the atonement, whereby an atonement shall be made for him.

9

And every offering of all the holy things of the children of Israel, which they bring unto the priest, shall be his. offering: or, heave offering

10

And every man's hallowed things shall be his: whatsoever any man giveth the priest, it shall be his.

11

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

12

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man's wife go aside, and commit a trespass against him,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The phrase 'every man's hallowed things shall be his' clarifies ownership rights within the sacrificial system. What a worshiper sanctified (set apart as holy) belonged to him to offer, though it ultimately went to the priest or altar. The Hebrew kodesh (hallowed/holy) indicates separation unto God. This teaches that dedication to God does not erase stewardship responsibility—we remain accountable for how we use what we have consecrated. It also establishes that priests could not coerce offerings; gifts must be voluntary.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This law protected against priestly abuse where religious leaders might claim anything they desired as sanctified to God. Jesus later condemned Pharisees who used the 'Corban' principle to avoid supporting parents (Mark 7:11-13), showing that dedication to God must not violate other scriptural obligations. True hallowing serves God's purposes, not human manipulation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How can religious language be misused to avoid legitimate obligations?
  2. What does it mean to truly consecrate something to God versus using dedication as a pretext?
  3. How do we maintain voluntary, joyful giving while supporting ministry needs?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
אִ֛ישׁ1 of 11

And every man's

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

אֶת2 of 11
H853

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

קֳדָשָׁ֖יו3 of 11

hallowed things

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

ל֣וֹ4 of 11
H0
יִֽהְי֑וּ5 of 11
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

אִ֛ישׁ6 of 11

And every man's

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

אֲשֶׁר7 of 11
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

יִתֵּ֥ן8 of 11

giveth

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לַכֹּהֵ֖ן9 of 11

the priest

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

ל֥וֹ10 of 11
H0
יִֽהְיֶֽה׃11 of 11
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)


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 5:10 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 5:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study