The Nazarite vow is a significant aspect of Old Testament law, representing a special commitment to God characterized by specific abstentions and practices. The term "Nazarite" comes from the Hebrew word "nazir," meaning "consecrated" or "separated." This vow is detailed in Numbers 6:1-21, where the LORD instructs Moses regarding the regulations for those who choose to take this vow.

Purpose and Nature of the Vow

The Nazarite vow was a voluntary act of devotion, allowing any Israelite, man or woman, to dedicate themselves to the LORD for a specific period. This vow was a form of fraternity, a spiritual brotherhood or sisterhood, where individuals set themselves apart for divine purposes. The vow was not limited to a particular tribe or class, emphasizing its accessibility to all who desired a deeper relationship with God.

Requirements and Restrictions

The Nazarite vow involved three primary restrictions:

1. Abstinence from Wine and Strong Drink: Those under the vow were to abstain from wine, fermented drink, vinegar made from wine, and any product of the grapevine, including grapes and raisins (Numbers 6:3-4). This abstention symbolized a rejection of earthly pleasures and a focus on spiritual matters.

2. No Razor Shall Touch the Head: The Nazarite was to let their hair grow long, serving as a visible sign of their vow and separation to God (Numbers 6:5). The uncut hair was a symbol of strength and dedication, reminiscent of the strength of Samson, a lifelong Nazarite (Judges 13:5).

3. Avoidance of Contact with the Dead: To maintain ritual purity, Nazarites were forbidden from coming into contact with a corpse, even that of a close family member (Numbers 6:6-7). This restriction underscored the holiness and purity required of those who dedicated themselves to God.

Completion and Offerings

Upon completion of the vow, the Nazarite was required to present offerings at the Tabernacle. These included a burnt offering, a sin offering, and a peace offering, along with a basket of unleavened bread, grain offerings, and drink offerings (Numbers 6:13-17). The Nazarite would then shave their head at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, and the hair was placed on the fire under the peace offering (Numbers 6:18).

Significance in Scripture

The Nazarite vow is a profound expression of personal holiness and dedication to God. It highlights the importance of voluntary commitment and the willingness to forgo personal comforts for spiritual growth. Notable biblical figures associated with the Nazarite vow include Samson, Samuel, and John the Baptist, each of whom played pivotal roles in Israel's history and God's redemptive plan.

The Nazarite vow serves as a reminder of the call to holiness and the potential for every believer to dedicate themselves wholly to the service of the LORD. Through this vow, individuals entered into a unique fraternity, bound by their shared commitment to live set apart for God's purposes.Numbers 6:1-21
And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
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Lamentations 4:7
Her Nazarites were purer than snow, they were whiter than milk, they were more ruddy in body than rubies, their polishing was of sapphire:
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Amos 2:11,12
And I raised up of your sons for prophets, and of your young men for Nazarites. Is it not even thus, O you children of Israel? said the LORD.
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Acts 21:24-31
Them take, and purify yourself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning you, are nothing; but that you yourself also walk orderly, and keep the law.
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Article xxvii (xiii): of Monastic Vows.
... a monk, John Hilten, who, thirty years ago, was cast by his fraternity into prison ...
But the Nazarites did not take upon themselves their vows with the ...
/.../the apology of the augsburg confession/part 35 article xxvii xiii .htm

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