Num 6:23-27 | TNotes

Summary for Num 6:24-26: 6:24-26 ^a Psalm 67:1 ^b contains an abbreviated version of this benediction, much like one inscribed on a silver amulet excavated at Ketef Hinnom, southwest of Jerusalem’s Old City. On a second, larger silver amulet from the same tomb, the complete benediction was inscribed in words almost identical to those here. In the days of the Second Temple (from Ezra to the time of Jesus), priests pronounced a blessing at each day’s sacrifice or at the end of services. This blessing is still used in Jewish and Christian liturgy as a way of seeking divine blessing (as in 6:27 ^c). 6:24 ^d The blessings sought in the first half of this verse include health, wealth, and fertility, while the protection mentioned in the second half was needed for all manner of dangers. This supplication is echoed in the language of Pss 121:3-8 ^e; 140:4 ^f; and 141:9 ^g. These heartfelt appeals are still good models for prayer and for the blessings that God’s people can seek for all humanity. The entire poem draws attention to the Lord as the source of all good things.
6:25 ^h The desire for God’s smile is often translated more literally may he make his face shine upon you.

• be gracious to you: God’s people need his grace and mercy in a dangerous world (cp. Pss 31:16 ⁱ; 67:1 ^j; 80:3 ^k, 7 ^l, 19 ^m).
6:26 ⁿ God’s favor—the display of his face, or countenance—refers to his approval and special attention (cp. Ps 30:7 ^o). Divine peace (Hebrew shalom) is not just the absence of conflict or violence; God’s peace brings complete well-being, health, and wholeness.
6:27 ^p The priests were the mediators of God’s covenant with Israel, so their duty was to pray for God’s people and invoke his blessing on them. Jesus has the same role in relation to the church (see Rom 8:34 ^q; Heb 2:17-18 ^r; 4:14-16 ^s).