Numbers 17:2

"Speak to the Israelites and take from them twelve staffs, one from the leader of each tribe. Write each man's name on his staff,

Study Bible

Speak to the Israelites
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of communication between God and His chosen people, the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "speak" is "דבר" (dabar), which implies not just casual conversation but a formal declaration or command. Historically, this reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where divine instructions were central to their identity and governance. It underscores the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the people, highlighting the importance of obedience and attentiveness to God's word.

and take from them
The instruction to "take" suggests an action that requires participation and cooperation from the Israelites. The Hebrew word "לקח" (laqach) means to take, receive, or acquire, often implying a purposeful and deliberate action. This reflects the communal aspect of the Israelites' relationship with God, where each tribe is involved in the unfolding of God's plan. It also sets the stage for a collective demonstration of God's authority and the validation of His chosen leaders.

twelve staffs
The number twelve is significant in biblical terms, representing completeness and the twelve tribes of Israel. The "staff" (Hebrew: "מטה" - matteh) is a symbol of authority and leadership, often used by shepherds and leaders. In the context of Numbers 17, the staffs represent the leaders of each tribe, and their selection is a precursor to God's demonstration of His chosen priesthood. This act serves as a tangible reminder of God's order and structure within the community.

one from the leader of each tribe
This phrase emphasizes the representative nature of the staffs, each belonging to a leader of one of the twelve tribes. The Hebrew word for "leader" is "נשיא" (nasi), which denotes a prince or chief, someone with authority and responsibility. This highlights the organized structure of Israelite society and the importance of leadership in maintaining order and obedience to God's commands. It also foreshadows the divine selection of Aaron's line for the priesthood, reinforcing the theme of God-ordained leadership.

Write each man’s name on his staff
The act of writing each leader's name on his staff personalizes the process and ensures clarity in identifying the chosen leader. The Hebrew verb "כתב" (katav) means to inscribe or record, indicating a permanent and official act. This serves as a reminder that God knows each individual by name and has a specific role and purpose for them. It also underscores the transparency and fairness of the process, as each tribe is equally represented and identified before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to guide His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He is the one instructed by God to collect the staffs.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, consisting of twelve tribes, each represented by a leader. They are the audience of God's command through Moses.

3. The Twelve Tribes
Each tribe of Israel is represented by a leader who provides a staff with his name on it. This event is a test to confirm God's chosen leader.

4. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the high priest. His staff is among those collected and will later be the one that buds, signifying God's choice.

5. The Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God meets with Moses and where the staffs are placed before the LORD as a test of divine selection.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Leadership
God establishes His chosen leaders through clear signs. Just as Aaron's staff budded, God confirms His chosen leaders in our lives through His Word and Spirit.

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' obedience in following God's instructions is a model for us. We are called to trust and obey God's directions, even when the purpose is not immediately clear.

God's Sovereignty in Selection
The budding of Aaron's staff is a reminder that God is sovereign in His choices. We must trust His wisdom in appointing leaders and roles within the church and community.

Unity Among Believers
The event with the staffs was meant to quell disputes among the tribes. In the church, we should strive for unity, recognizing and respecting God's appointments.

Faith in God's Provision
Just as God provided a clear sign of His choice, we can trust that He will provide guidance and confirmation in our lives when we seek His will earnestly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of the budding staff in Numbers 17:2 demonstrate God's authority and choice in leadership? Reflect on a time when you have seen God's guidance in leadership decisions.

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Moses' actions to our daily walk with God?

3. How does the account of Aaron's staff relate to the concept of priesthood in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews?

4. What steps can we take to promote unity within our church or community, especially when disputes arise over leadership or roles?

5. How can we discern God's will and confirmation in our personal decisions, similar to how God confirmed His choice of Aaron through the budding staff?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4:2-4
The staff of Moses is used as a sign of God's power and authority, similar to how the staffs in Numbers 17 are used to demonstrate God's chosen leader.

Hebrews 9:4
This verse references Aaron's staff that budded, which is kept in the Ark of the Covenant as a testimony to God's selection of Aaron and his descendants for the priesthood.

Psalm 110:4
This Psalm speaks of the eternal priesthood, which can be connected to the divine selection of Aaron's line, as demonstrated by the budding staff.