This verse from Numbers 5:6 is the beginning of a passage outlining a specific type of sin requiring restitution. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Speak to the children of Israel:" This is a common introductory phrase in the Old Testament, signaling that Moses is receiving and conveying instructions from God (Yahweh) to the Israelites.
"When a man or woman commits any sin that men commit..." This indicates that the following instructions apply equally to both men and women. The phrase "any sin that men commit" is a broad way of saying any sin that humans are capable of committing. It is a general reference to sins against God, and most often specifically sins against others.
"...so as to trespass against Yahweh..." This is the crucial part. It clarifies that the "sin" being discussed is specifically one that also constitutes a trespass against God. This connection to God makes the sin more serious. It suggests an act of unfaithfulness to God's covenant and laws.
"...and that soul is guilty;" This simply affirms the individual's culpability if they commit the described sin. Guilt carries consequences that will need to be dealt with in the subsequent verses.
In essence, the verse sets the stage for discussing a specific type of sin – one that: applies to both men and women, is a sin that humans are capable of committing, also constitutes a trespass against God, and makes the perpetrator guilty.
It's important to read this verse in the context of the verses that follow in Numbers 5:7-8, which detail the required actions for atonement. These actions involve confession and making full restitution for the wrong committed, plus an additional 20%. If the victim is deceased and has no next of kin, the restitution goes to the priest.
In summary: Numbers 5:6 introduces a scenario where a person (male or female) commits a sin that not only harms another person, but also violates their covenant with God, leading to guilt. It sets the stage for instructions on how to atone for this type of sin.
This verse from Numbers 5:6 is the beginning of a passage outlining a specific type of sin requiring restitution. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"Speak to the children of Israel:" This is a common introductory phrase in the Old Testament, signaling that Moses is receiving and conveying instructions from God (Yahweh) to the Israelites.
"When a man or woman commits any sin that men commit..." This indicates that the following instructions apply equally to both men and women. The phrase "any sin that men commit" is a broad way of saying any sin that humans are capable of committing. It is a general reference to sins against God, and most often specifically sins against others.
"...so as to trespass against Yahweh..." This is the crucial part. It clarifies that the "sin" being discussed is specifically one that also constitutes a trespass against God. This connection to God makes the sin more serious. It suggests an act of unfaithfulness to God's covenant and laws.
"...and that soul is guilty;" This simply affirms the individual's culpability if they commit the described sin. Guilt carries consequences that will need to be dealt with in the subsequent verses.
In essence, the verse sets the stage for discussing a specific type of sin – one that: applies to both men and women, is a sin that humans are capable of committing, also constitutes a trespass against God, and makes the perpetrator guilty.
It's important to read this verse in the context of the verses that follow in Numbers 5:7-8, which detail the required actions for atonement. These actions involve confession and making full restitution for the wrong committed, plus an additional 20%. If the victim is deceased and has no next of kin, the restitution goes to the priest.
In summary: Numbers 5:6 introduces a scenario where a person (male or female) commits a sin that not only harms another person, but also violates their covenant with God, leading to guilt. It sets the stage for instructions on how to atone for this type of sin.