Numbers 9:1

In the first month of the second year after Israel had come out of the land of Egypt, the LORD spoke to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai:

Study Bible

In the first month
The phrase "in the first month" refers to the month of Nisan (or Abib), which is significant in the Hebrew calendar as it marks the beginning of the religious year. This month is historically and spiritually important because it commemorates the Exodus from Egypt, a foundational event in Israel's history. The Hebrew root for "first" (רִאשׁוֹן, rishon) emphasizes primacy and precedence, indicating the importance of this time in God's redemptive plan.

of the second year
This phrase situates the narrative in a specific time frame, the second year after the Exodus. It highlights the ongoing journey of the Israelites and their transition from slavery to becoming a covenant community. The second year marks a period of learning and establishing identity as God's chosen people, emphasizing growth and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt
This phrase recalls the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, a central theme in the Old Testament. The Hebrew term for "come out" (יָצָא, yatsa) conveys the idea of departure and liberation, underscoring God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. This historical context serves as a constant reminder of God's salvation and the call to live in obedience to Him.

the LORD spoke to Moses
Here, "the LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His personal relationship with Israel. The act of speaking to Moses signifies divine communication and guidance, reinforcing Moses' role as God's chosen leader and mediator. This divine interaction underscores the importance of revelation and obedience in the life of the covenant community.

in the Wilderness of Sinai
The "Wilderness of Sinai" is a significant location in Israel's journey, where they received the Law and entered into a covenant with God. The wilderness represents both a place of testing and divine encounter, where God shapes His people through trials and instruction. The Hebrew word for "wilderness" (מִדְבָּר, midbar) can also imply a place of order and arrangement, suggesting that even in desolation, God is present and purposeful in His dealings with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will to His people.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness.

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, recently delivered from slavery in Egypt, now journeying through the wilderness.

4. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where God communicates with Moses, a place of testing and revelation for the Israelites.

5. The First Month of the Second Year
A specific time marker indicating the period after the Exodus, highlighting the ongoing journey and development of Israel as a nation.

Teaching Points

God's Timing and Order
God's instructions come at specific times, emphasizing His order and purpose. Believers should seek to understand and align with God's timing in their lives.

The Importance of Remembrance
The reference to the first month after the Exodus serves as a reminder of God's deliverance. Christians are called to remember and celebrate God's past faithfulness in their lives.

Leadership and Obedience
Moses' role as a mediator between God and Israel highlights the importance of godly leadership and obedience to God's commands. Believers are encouraged to respect and pray for their leaders.

Wilderness as a Place of Revelation
The wilderness is not just a place of trial but also of divine revelation. In difficult times, Christians should be open to hearing God's voice and receiving His guidance.

Community and Covenant
The communal aspect of Israel's journey underscores the importance of community and covenant relationships among believers. Christians are called to support and journey together in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the timing of God's communication in Numbers 9:1 reflect His order and purpose, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

2. In what ways can we, like the Israelites, remember and celebrate God's deliverance in our personal and communal faith journeys?

3. What lessons can we learn from Moses' leadership in the wilderness that apply to our roles in our families, churches, and communities?

4. How can we view our own "wilderness" experiences as opportunities for divine revelation and growth in our relationship with God?

5. How does the concept of community and covenant in Israel's journey challenge us to deepen our relationships within the body of Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The institution of the Passover, which is directly related to the timing mentioned in Numbers 9:1, as it marks the beginning of Israel's deliverance from Egypt.

Leviticus 23
Details the appointed feasts of the LORD, including Passover, which is relevant to the timing and context of Numbers 9:1.

Hebrews 3-4
Discusses the spiritual significance of the wilderness journey and the rest that God promises, connecting the physical journey of Israel to spiritual truths for believers.