King James Version

What Does Numbers 6:23 Mean?

Numbers 6:23 in the King James Version says “Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them,” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them,”

Numbers 6:23 · KJV

Context

21

This is the law of the Nazarite who hath vowed, and of his offering unto the LORD for his separation, beside that that his hand shall get: according to the vow which he vowed, so he must do after the law of his separation.

22

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

23

Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them,

24

The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

25

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

Read Numbers 6 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse introduces the Aaronic benediction, commanding Aaron and his sons to pronounce blessing upon Israel. The Hebrew verb 'barak' (בָּרַךְ, 'bless') signifies more than mere well-wishing—it conveys empowerment, enrichment, and divine favor actively bestowed. God Himself prescribes the precise words and manner of blessing, demonstrating that true blessing flows from divine authority, not human invention. The phrase 'On this wise' establishes the exact formula that follows in verses 24-26, emphasizing liturgical precision in worship. This divine authorization transforms priestly words into channels of God's actual blessing—the priests speak, but God blesses. The benediction's threefold structure (verses 24-26) corresponds to the Trinity and represents complete, comprehensive blessing. This verse establishes the principle that God mediates blessing through appointed representatives, foreshadowing Christ our High Priest who blesses all who come to the Father through Him (Hebrews 7:25).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Numbers 6:23 appears within the wilderness period legislation, following instructions about Nazirite vows and preceding the tribal offerings at the tabernacle's dedication (approximately 1446-1406 BC). The Aaronic priesthood had recently been established following the Exodus and Sinai covenant. Ancient Near Eastern cultures widely practiced priestly blessings, but Israel's benediction was unique in being divinely prescribed word-for-word rather than left to human creativity. The blessing was pronounced regularly in tabernacle and later temple worship, becoming central to Jewish liturgy. Evidence from the Ketef Hinnom archaeological discovery (7th century BC) shows the Aaronic benediction inscribed on silver amulets, demonstrating its early and widespread use in Israel. The blessing continued in synagogue worship and remains central to Jewish liturgy today.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's prescription of exact blessing words demonstrate the importance of biblical fidelity in worship?
  2. What does the priestly role as channel (not source) of blessing teach about Christian ministry today?
  3. How does the Aaronic benediction's threefold structure reflect Trinitarian theology?
  4. In what ways does this passage anticipate Christ's high priestly ministry of blessing His people?
  5. How should we balance liturgical precision with authentic, heartfelt worship in our churches?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
דַּבֵּ֤ר1 of 13

“Speak”

H1696

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

אֶֽל2 of 13
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אַהֲרֹן֙3 of 13

“unto Aaron”

H175

aharon, the brother of moses

וְאֶל4 of 13
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

בְּנֵ֣י5 of 13

“and unto his sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אָמ֖וֹר6 of 13

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

כֹּ֥ה7 of 13

“On this wise”

H3541

properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now

תְבָֽרְכ֖וּ8 of 13

“ye shall bless”

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֶת9 of 13
H853

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

בְּנֵ֣י10 of 13

“and unto his sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל11 of 13

“of Israel”

H3478

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

אָמ֖וֹר12 of 13

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

לָהֶֽם׃13 of 13
H0

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 6:23 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 6:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 23:13Deuteronomy 21:5Hebrews 7:1Genesis 48:202 Corinthians 13:14Luke 24:50-51

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 6 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 6 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes