What role does the priest play in Numbers 6:20, and why is it significant? Numbers 6:20—The Verse “ ‘The priest is to wave them as a wave offering before the LORD. They are holy for the priest, together with the breast of the presentation offering and the thigh of the contribution offering. After that, the Nazirite may drink wine.’ ” What the Priest Actually Does • Receives the boiled shoulder, unleavened cake, and wafer that have been placed in the Nazirite’s hands (v. 19). • Waves (lifts and moves) these portions “before the LORD,” publicly acknowledging God’s ownership. • Claims the waved items as “holy for the priest,” receiving them as his God-assigned portion. • Signals by this act that the Nazirite’s consecration period is officially complete. Why the Act Matters • Mediator of Acceptance – By waving the offering, the priest presents the Nazirite’s devotion to God, affirming divine acceptance (cf. Leviticus 7:30). • Transfer of Holiness – What touches the altar becomes holy (Exodus 29:37). When the priest receives the waved pieces, that holiness is shared with him, underscoring his sanctified office (Numbers 18:8–9). • Completion of Vow – Only after the priest’s action may the Nazirite “drink wine” again, demonstrating that priestly ministry marks the transition from special vow back to ordinary life. • Provision for God’s Servant – The holy portions feed the priest, illustrating God’s care for those who serve at the altar (Deuteronomy 18:1–2; 1 Corinthians 9:13). • Foreshadowing a Greater Priest – The mediating pattern anticipates Christ, “who offered Himself once for all” (Hebrews 7:27). Just as the priest finalized the Nazirite’s vow, Jesus consummates every believer’s dedication to God. Spiritual Parallels in the Wider Canon • Wave offerings elsewhere (Exodus 29:24–25) show identical priestly mediation. • The priest’s holy portion echoes the peace offering, where parts are eaten in fellowship with God (Leviticus 7:31–34). • Believers are now a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), called to present spiritual sacrifices, yet still rely on the once-for-all High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16). Takeaways for Believers Today • God welcomes consecrated devotion but ordains priestly mediation for acceptance—ultimately fulfilled in Christ. • Holiness is transferable through God’s appointed means; proximity to His service changes lives. • Completion of commitments should be marked by thankful worship and recognition of God’s provision for His servants. |
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