Numbers 9:11

Such people are to observe it at twilight on the fourteenth day of the second month. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs;

Study Bible

They are to observe it
This phrase refers to the observance of the Passover, a pivotal event in Israelite history. The Hebrew root for "observe" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to do, make, or perform. This indicates an active participation and a faithful adherence to God's commandments. The Passover was not merely a ritual but a profound act of remembrance and obedience, symbolizing God's deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage. It underscores the importance of obedience in the life of a believer, reflecting a heart aligned with God's will.

on the fourteenth day
The specific timing of the Passover is significant. The fourteenth day of the month was divinely appointed, emphasizing God's sovereignty and order. In the Hebrew calendar, this day marks the full moon, symbolizing completeness and fulfillment. It serves as a reminder that God's timing is perfect, and His plans are meticulously orchestrated. For believers, it is a call to trust in God's timing and His divine plan for our lives.

of the second month
The second month, Iyar, is mentioned here as a provision for those who were unable to celebrate the Passover in the first month due to ceremonial uncleanness or being on a distant journey (Numbers 9:10). This demonstrates God's grace and understanding of human circumstances. It highlights the flexibility within God's law to accommodate genuine needs, reflecting His compassion and desire for all to participate in His redemptive acts.

at twilight
Twilight, or "בֵּין הָעַרְבָּיִם" (bein ha'arbayim) in Hebrew, refers to the time between sunset and darkness. This time of day is symbolic of transition and change, representing the shift from slavery to freedom for the Israelites. It is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God's deliverance. For Christians, it echoes the transition from the old life of sin to the new life in Christ, a call to embrace the freedom found in Him.

They are to eat the lamb
The lamb is central to the Passover meal, symbolizing the sacrifice necessary for redemption. The Hebrew word for lamb, "שֶׂה" (seh), points to the innocence and purity of the sacrifice. This foreshadows Christ, the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Eating the lamb signifies internalizing the sacrifice, a call for believers to fully embrace and partake in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

with unleavened bread
Unleavened bread, or "מַצָּה" (matzah), is bread made without yeast, symbolizing purity and the haste of the Israelites' departure from Egypt. Leaven often represents sin in Scripture, so unleavened bread signifies a life free from sin and corruption. For Christians, it is a call to live a life of holiness and separation from the world, reflecting the purity and righteousness of Christ.

and bitter herbs
Bitter herbs, or "מְרֹרִים" (merorim), are a reminder of the bitterness of slavery in Egypt. They serve as a tangible reminder of the suffering and hardship endured by the Israelites. For believers, it is a call to remember the bitterness of sin and the cost of redemption. It encourages a heart of gratitude for the deliverance and freedom found in Christ, urging us to never forget the price paid for our salvation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt and are now in the wilderness, receiving instructions on how to live as a covenant community.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives and communicates God's laws and instructions to the people.

3. The Passover
A significant event and feast commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery in Egypt, marked by the sacrifice of a lamb and the eating of unleavened bread and bitter herbs.

4. The Second Month
Refers to the month of Iyar in the Hebrew calendar, which is the time specified for those who were unable to observe the Passover in the first month (Nisan).

5. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for All
The allowance for a second Passover in the second month demonstrates God's grace and provision for those who, due to circumstances beyond their control, could not participate in the first observance. This reflects God's understanding and accommodation of human limitations.

The Importance of Remembrance
Observing the Passover was crucial for the Israelites to remember God's deliverance. Similarly, Christians are called to remember Christ's sacrifice, which is our ultimate deliverance from sin.

Symbolism of the Elements
The lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs each hold deep symbolic meaning. The lamb represents sacrifice, the unleavened bread signifies purity and haste, and the bitter herbs remind of the bitterness of slavery. These elements encourage reflection on the cost of redemption and the call to holiness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The detailed instructions for observing the Passover highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. This obedience is a demonstration of faith and reverence for God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision for a second Passover in Numbers 9:11 reflect God's character and His understanding of human circumstances?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the Passover elements (lamb, unleavened bread, bitter herbs) deepen our understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

3. How does the observance of the Passover in the second month relate to the concept of grace and second chances in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the principle of remembrance into our daily lives to honor Christ's sacrifice?

5. How can we apply the lesson of obedience from the Passover instructions to our own walk with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the original instructions for the Passover, establishing its significance and the elements involved, such as the lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs.

Leviticus 23
Lists the appointed feasts of the Lord, including the Passover, and outlines their observance as a perpetual statute for the Israelites.

2 Chronicles 30
Describes King Hezekiah's observance of the Passover in the second month, highlighting the provision for those who were unable to celebrate it at the appointed time.

1 Corinthians 5:7-8
Paul draws a parallel between Christ, our Passover lamb, and the call for believers to live in sincerity and truth, akin to the unleavened bread.