What is the meaning of Numbers 6:20? The priest shall then wave them as a wave offering before the LORD • The priest lifts the elements (shoulder, unleavened cake, wafer) and moves them back and forth—an act of visibly presenting them to the God who sees (Exodus 29:24; Leviticus 7:30). • Though waved toward heaven, the items remain on earth, picturing the union of divine ownership and earthly stewardship—fulfilled in Christ, our High Priest who entered heaven for us (Hebrews 9:24). • The ceremony signals that the Nazirite’s dedication period has reached its climax; the vow has produced tangible worship. This is a holy portion for the priest • Once presented, the items are declared “holy,” set apart for priestly use, not common consumption (Leviticus 7:31–34). • God provides for those who serve at the altar; the principle carries forward to gospel ministry (Deuteronomy 18:1–5; 1 Corinthians 9:13). • Holiness here is not abstract—it is concrete provision, reminding us that God’s servants rely on offerings sanctified for their support. In addition to the breast of the wave offering and the thigh that was presented • The priest receives multiple portions: – The waved shoulder/cake/wafer of the Nazirite ceremony. – The regular “breast” and “thigh” allotted from fellowship offerings (Exodus 29:27–28). • The layering of gifts underscores God’s consistent generosity; every worshipper’s obedience results in priestly sustenance. • Israel later faltered by despising these portions (1 Samuel 2:13–17). Numbers 6 safeguards both worship and priestly livelihood. After that, the Nazirite may drink wine • Wine had been banned for the duration of the vow (Numbers 6:3–4). Once the final offering is waved and accepted, normal life resumes. • The sequence matters: worship first, privileges second. Obedience opens the door to rightful enjoyment of God’s gifts (Psalm 104:14–15; John 2:1–10). • The completed vow foreshadows believers who, after consecration, share in the joy of restored fellowship through Christ (Luke 22:18; Acts 2:46). Summary Numbers 6:20 pictures the joyful closure of a Nazirite’s season of special devotion. The priest’s wave offering publicly acknowledges God’s receipt of the Nazirite’s gifts, sets apart holy portions for priestly support, and reaffirms the ongoing system of provision built into Israel’s worship. Only after this act does the Nazirite return to normal pleasures—proof that wholehearted dedication to the LORD brings both spiritual fulfillment and restored enjoyment of His good gifts. |
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