Numbers 5:17

Then he is to take some holy water in a clay jar and put some of the dust from the tabernacle floor into the water.

Study Bible

Then he is to take
This phrase indicates a specific action commanded by God, emphasizing obedience and precision in following divine instructions. The Hebrew root for "take" is "laqach," which often implies receiving or acquiring with intention. This action is not arbitrary but is a deliberate step in a ritual that underscores the seriousness of the proceedings.

some holy water
The term "holy water" refers to water that has been set apart for sacred use. In the Hebrew context, "holy" (qodesh) signifies something consecrated or dedicated to God. This water is not ordinary; it is sanctified, symbolizing purity and the presence of God. The use of holy water in this ritual highlights the need for divine intervention and purification.

in a clay jar
The use of a "clay jar" is significant, as clay vessels were common in ancient Israel for everyday use. The Hebrew word for "clay" is "cheres," which can also mean earthenware. This choice of material reflects the humble and earthly nature of humanity, reminding us of our creation from dust and our dependence on God. The fragility of clay jars can symbolize the vulnerability of human life and the need for divine protection.

and put some dust
Dust, or "aphar" in Hebrew, is a powerful symbol in the Bible, often representing mortality and humility. In Genesis, humans are formed from dust, and to dust, they return. The inclusion of dust in this ritual serves as a reminder of human frailty and the need for God's mercy and justice. It also connects the ritual to the physical space of the tabernacle, grounding the spiritual act in the tangible world.

from the tabernacle floor
The "tabernacle floor" is a sacred space, the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The Hebrew term for "tabernacle" is "mishkan," meaning dwelling or habitation. Dust from this holy ground carries the weight of divine presence and authority. By using dust from the tabernacle, the ritual is imbued with the sanctity and seriousness of God's covenant with Israel.

into the water
The act of putting dust into the water signifies a transformation, creating a mixture that is central to the ritual. Water, often a symbol of life and cleansing, combined with dust from the holy ground, becomes a medium through which God's judgment and truth are sought. This mixture represents the intersection of the divine and the earthly, a tangible expression of seeking God's will and justice in human affairs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest
The priest is the central figure in this ritual, acting as a mediator between God and the people. He performs the ceremony involving holy water and dust.

2. Tabernacle
The tabernacle is the dwelling place of God among the Israelites, a sacred space where the ritual takes place. The dust from its floor is used in the ceremony, signifying holiness and divine presence.

3. Holy Water
This is water set apart for sacred use, symbolizing purification and the presence of God. It is used in the ritual to test the faithfulness of a wife accused of adultery.

4. Clay Jar
The clay jar is a common, humble vessel, symbolizing humanity and the earthly nature of the ritual. It holds the holy water mixed with dust.

5. Dust from the Tabernacle Floor
The dust signifies the holiness of the tabernacle and is used to create a tangible connection to God's presence in the ritual.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Purity
The use of holy water and dust from the tabernacle underscores the importance of holiness and purity in our relationship with God. Believers are called to live lives set apart for God's purposes.

God's Presence in Rituals
The ritual in Numbers 5 highlights the significance of God's presence in religious practices. It reminds us that our worship and rituals should be centered on God's holiness and truth.

Judgment and Mercy
While the ritual involves judgment, it also points to the need for mercy and grace. As Christians, we are called to balance justice with compassion, following the example of Christ.

Symbolism of Earthly Vessels
The clay jar represents our human frailty and the need for God's strength. We are reminded that God uses ordinary people to accomplish His divine purposes.

Faithfulness and Accountability
The ritual serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness in relationships and accountability before God. It challenges us to examine our own lives for integrity and truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of holy water and dust in Numbers 5:17 reflect the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:1-11 relate to the ritual described in Numbers 5, and what does it teach us about judgment and mercy?

3. How can the symbolism of the clay jar in Numbers 5:17 inspire us to embrace our human limitations while relying on God's strength?

4. What lessons can we learn from the ritual in Numbers 5 about the importance of faithfulness and accountability in our relationships with others and with God?

5. How does the concept of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, as described in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, connect to the themes of holiness and purity in Numbers 5:17?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 8:1-11
This passage recounts the account of the woman caught in adultery, where Jesus demonstrates mercy and challenges the accusers. It connects to the theme of judgment and mercy found in Numbers 5.

Psalm 51:7
This verse speaks of purification and cleansing, echoing the symbolic use of holy water in Numbers 5 for spiritual purification.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
This passage reminds believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, connecting to the idea of holiness and purity associated with the tabernacle.