Numbers 6:27

So they shall put My name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."

Study Bible

So they shall put
The phrase "So they shall put" indicates an action of placing or setting something upon another. In the Hebrew context, the word used here is "שָׂמוּ" (samu), which means to place, set, or appoint. This action is not merely physical but carries a spiritual and authoritative connotation. It signifies a deliberate and divine act of conferring something sacred. In the context of the priestly blessing, it is an act of imparting God's presence and favor upon the people. This reflects the role of the priests as mediators between God and Israel, emphasizing the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding and blessing the community.

My name
The phrase "My name" refers to the divine name of God, often represented in Hebrew as "יהוה" (YHWH), the Tetragrammaton. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a name was more than a label; it represented the essence and character of a person. Thus, God's name embodies His nature, authority, and presence. To put God's name on the Israelites is to invoke His power, protection, and identity over them. It signifies a covenant relationship where God claims the Israelites as His own, promising to be their God and they His people. This act of placing God's name is a profound declaration of His commitment and blessing.

on the Israelites
The term "on the Israelites" specifies the recipients of this divine action. The Israelites, or "בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Bnei Yisrael) in Hebrew, are the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel. They are the chosen people through whom God intended to reveal His will and purpose to the world. This designation as the people of God carries both privilege and responsibility. It underscores their unique identity and mission as a nation set apart to reflect God's holiness and to be a light to the nations. The placing of God's name upon them is a reaffirmation of their special status and calling.

and I will bless them
The phrase "and I will bless them" is a divine promise of favor and prosperity. The Hebrew word for bless, "בָּרַךְ" (barak), conveys the idea of endowing with power for success, prosperity, and longevity. God's blessing is comprehensive, encompassing spiritual, physical, and material well-being. It is an assurance of His presence, guidance, and provision. This promise is not conditional on the Israelites' actions but is an expression of God's grace and faithfulness. It highlights the benevolent nature of God, who desires to bless His people abundantly. The blessing is both a present reality and a future hope, rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were set apart to be a holy nation.

2. Aaron and His Sons
The priests who were given the responsibility to bless the Israelites with the priestly blessing, which includes invoking God's name upon them.

3. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people during their journey in the wilderness, where the priestly blessings were often pronounced.

4. The Priestly Blessing
A specific blessing given by God to be spoken by the priests over the people, found in Numbers 6:24-26, culminating in verse 27.

5. Yahweh (The LORD)
The covenant name of God, representing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

Teaching Points

The Power of God's Name
God's name represents His character, authority, and presence. When His name is placed upon His people, it signifies His ownership and blessing.

The Role of Priestly Intercession
The priests acted as mediators between God and the people, highlighting the importance of intercession and the role of spiritual leaders in blessing others.

The Assurance of God's Blessing
God's promise to bless His people when His name is invoked assures believers of His faithfulness and the certainty of His blessings.

Identity and Belonging
Being marked by God's name gives believers a sense of identity and belonging, reminding them of their covenant relationship with Him.

Living Under God's Blessing
As recipients of God's name and blessing, believers are called to live in a way that reflects His character and brings glory to His name.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God's name being placed upon the Israelites enhance our understanding of His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, experience the blessing of having God's name upon us?

3. How does the role of the priests in Numbers 6:27 relate to the role of Jesus as our High Priest in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out our identity as people who bear God's name in our daily lives?

5. How can understanding the significance of God's name in the Old Testament deepen our appreciation for the name of Jesus in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:24
This verse speaks of God blessing the places where His name is remembered, connecting to the idea of God's name being placed upon the Israelites.

Deuteronomy 28:10
This passage describes how all the peoples of the earth will see that the Israelites are called by the name of the LORD, reinforcing the significance of God's name upon them.

John 17:11
Jesus prays for His disciples, asking the Father to protect them by the power of His name, showing the continuity of God's name as a source of blessing and protection.

Revelation 22:4
In the New Jerusalem, God's name will be on the foreheads of His servants, symbolizing eternal blessing and belonging to God.