Numbers 5:25

The priest shall take from her hand the grain offering for jealousy, wave it before the LORD, and bring it to the altar.

Study Bible

The priest
In ancient Israel, the priest served 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 role in this context underscores the seriousness of the ritual and the need for divine intervention in matters of marital fidelity. The priest's involvement highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance and justice in personal and communal disputes.

is to take
The act of taking the offering signifies the priest's active role in the ritual. It is a deliberate action that initiates the process of seeking divine judgment. This action reflects the priest's responsibility to uphold God's law and ensure that the ritual is conducted according to divine instructions.

the grain offering for jealousy
This specific offering, known in Hebrew as "minchah," is unique to the situation described in Numbers 5. It is a tangible expression of the husband's suspicion and the community's desire for truth. The grain offering, made of barley, is humble and unadorned, symbolizing the gravity and solemnity of the situation. It serves as a physical representation of the emotional and spiritual turmoil caused by jealousy.

from the woman
The woman's involvement in the offering process is crucial. It signifies her participation in the ritual and her submission to the divine judgment that will follow. This phrase highlights the personal nature of the ritual, as it directly affects her life and reputation. It also underscores the communal aspect, as her actions and the outcome of the ritual have implications for the entire community.

present the offering before the LORD
Presenting the offering before the LORD emphasizes the sacredness of the ritual. It is an act of worship and submission to God's authority. The Hebrew word "panim," meaning "before," suggests a face-to-face encounter with the divine. This phrase reminds us that God is the ultimate judge, and His presence is central to the resolution of the matter.

and bring it to the altar
The altar is a place of sacrifice and divine encounter. Bringing the offering to the altar signifies the culmination of the ritual process. It is here that the offering is transformed from a physical object into a spiritual plea for justice. The altar represents God's willingness to engage with His people and provide guidance and resolution in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
A mediator between God and the people, responsible for performing the rituals and offerings as prescribed by the Law.

2. The Woman
The subject of the jealousy offering, suspected of unfaithfulness, and undergoing a ritual to determine her innocence or guilt.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, before whom the offering is presented, signifying His role as the ultimate judge.

4. The Altar
The sacred place where offerings are made, symbolizing God's presence and the place of atonement and judgment.

5. The Grain Offering for Jealousy
A specific offering made in cases of suspected marital unfaithfulness, serving as a test of fidelity.

Teaching Points

God's Holiness and Justice
The ritual underscores God's holiness and the seriousness of sin, particularly in the covenant of marriage.

The Role of the Priest
The priest acts as an intermediary, highlighting the need for spiritual leadership and guidance in matters of sin and reconciliation.

The Importance of Faithfulness
The jealousy offering serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness in relationships, reflecting God's faithfulness to His people.

God as the Ultimate Judge
The ritual emphasizes that God is the ultimate judge who discerns truth and administers justice, encouraging believers to trust in His righteous judgment.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents a place of meeting with God, where sin is addressed, and reconciliation is sought, pointing to the need for repentance and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priest in Numbers 5:25 reflect the need for spiritual leadership in addressing sin within the community?

2. In what ways does the jealousy offering highlight the seriousness of marital fidelity, and how can this be applied to modern Christian marriages?

3. How does the concept of God as the ultimate judge in Numbers 5:25 provide comfort or challenge to believers today?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the ritual in Numbers 5 and the account of the woman caught in adultery in John 8, and what do these teach us about grace and justice?

5. How can the symbolism of the altar in Numbers 5:25 inspire believers to seek reconciliation and restoration in their own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2
Discusses grain offerings, providing context for the type of offering used in the jealousy ritual.

Proverbs 6:34
Speaks about jealousy as a powerful emotion, highlighting the seriousness of the situation addressed in Numbers 5.

1 Corinthians 4:5
Relates to God's role as the ultimate judge who brings to light what is hidden, similar to the purpose of the jealousy offering.

John 8:1-11
The account of the woman caught in adultery, illustrating Jesus' approach to sin and judgment, contrasting with the Old Testament law.