Numbers 5:23

And the priest shall write these curses on a scroll and wash them off into the bitter water.

Study Bible

The priest
In ancient Israel, the priest held a significant role as a mediator between God and the people. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," signifies one who is set apart for sacred duties. The priest's involvement in this ritual underscores the seriousness of the matter and the divine authority behind the proceedings. The priest's actions are not merely ceremonial but are imbued with spiritual significance, reflecting the holiness and justice of God.

is to write
The act of writing in ancient times was a deliberate and solemn task, often reserved for important decrees and records. The Hebrew verb "katab" implies a formal recording, indicating that these curses are not to be taken lightly. Writing them down signifies a binding declaration, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the permanence of the words once inscribed.

these curses
The term "curses" here refers to the specific consequences outlined in the preceding verses for a woman accused of infidelity. In Hebrew, "alah" denotes an oath or imprecation, invoking divine judgment. This reflects the covenantal nature of Israel's relationship with God, where blessings and curses were part of the covenant stipulations. The curses serve as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for purity within the community.

on a scroll
Scrolls were the primary medium for writing in the ancient Near East, made from papyrus or parchment. The use of a scroll signifies the official and enduring nature of the record. In a broader biblical context, scrolls often contain God's laws and revelations, highlighting the sacredness of the document and the divine authority behind the words inscribed.

and wash them off
The act of washing off the curses from the scroll is symbolic, representing the removal or transfer of the written words into the water. This action signifies the transition from written decree to enacted ritual, where the words take on a tangible form. It also reflects the concept of purification, as water is often used in the Bible for cleansing and renewal.

into the bitter water
The "bitter water" is a crucial element of the ritual, symbolizing the potential consequences of sin. The Hebrew word "mar" for bitter conveys a sense of distress and hardship. This water, infused with the curses, becomes a test of truth and faithfulness. In the broader biblical narrative, bitterness often represents the consequences of disobedience, serving as a warning and a call to repentance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
A representative of God who performs the ritual. In this context, the priest acts as a mediator between God and the people, executing the law as given to Moses.

2. The Woman
The subject of the ritual, suspected of infidelity. This passage is part of a larger section dealing with laws concerning purity and faithfulness in marriage.

3. The Bitter Water
A concoction used in the ritual to determine the guilt or innocence of the woman. It symbolizes the judgment of God.

4. The Scroll
The medium on which the curses are written. It represents the written law and the seriousness of the covenant between God and His people.

5. The Curses
Specific consequences outlined for unfaithfulness. They serve as a deterrent and a means of divine justice.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
This passage underscores the gravity of sin, particularly in the context of marriage. It reminds us that God takes faithfulness seriously.

The Role of the Law
The law serves as a guide to holiness and a means to maintain community purity. It points to the need for a mediator, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

God's Justice and Mercy
While the ritual seems harsh, it reflects God's justice. However, it also points to the need for mercy, which is fully realized in the New Testament through Jesus.

The Power of Words
The written curses remind us of the power of words and the importance of speaking truth and life, rather than curses and death.

Faithfulness in Relationships
This passage calls us to examine our own relationships and strive for faithfulness, reflecting God's covenant love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Numbers 5:23 reflect the need for a mediator between God and humanity, and how is this fulfilled in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the ritual of the bitter water highlight the seriousness of sin, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with God?

3. How do the curses written on the scroll in Numbers 5:23 compare to the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28, and what does this teach us about the covenant relationship with God?

4. Reflect on the power of words as seen in this passage. How can we use our words to build up rather than tear down in our communities and relationships?

5. Considering the themes of justice and mercy in Numbers 5:23, how can we balance these attributes in our interactions with others, especially when dealing with issues of sin and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, similar to the curses written in Numbers 5:23. It emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance highlights the importance of purity and faithfulness, echoing the themes of confession and divine judgment found in Numbers 5.

John 8:1-11
The account of the woman caught in adultery shows Jesus' approach to sin and judgment, offering grace and forgiveness, which contrasts with the Old Testament law.