Numbers 18:23

"Henceforth the children of Israel shall not come near the Tent of Meeting, lest they bear sin, and die."

Key Reflection

This verse underscores the sacred nature of the Tent of Meeting, emphasizing that direct access to it could bring about divine judgment if approached improperly. It highlights the need for proper priesthood and ritual purity in the presence of God's holy dwelling, reflecting the serious consequences of religious transgression in ancient Israelite society.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Bear their iniquity -The words probably refer to the iniquity of the people; who would, had they approached the tabernacle have fallen, from their proneness to transgress, into overt acts of offence. Against such a result they were, through the ministrations of the Levites, mercifully protected. CompareNumbers 18:1.

More from Numbers 18

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