Numbers 15:30 Meaning and Explanation
“But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Anyone, native or sojourner, who sins presumptuously—with deliberate defiance—reproaches the LORD and shall be cut off from the people.
The Context of Numbers 15:30
God distinguishes between unintentional and intentional sins, treating them with different severities.
What Does Numbers 15:30 Mean?
The shift from 'ignorance' to 'presumptuously' marks a crucial distinction: deliberate, knowing sin is not covered by the atonement laws just described. Presumptuous sin is treated as open defiance of God, not mere error.
The phrase 'reproacheth the LORD' and the consequence of being 'cut off from among his people' indicate that presumptuous sin ruptures the covenant relationship permanently. Such a person is removed from the community, suggesting excommunication or total separation.
Numbers 15:30 in the Original Language
presumptuously (בְיָד רָמָה beyad ramah), 'with a high hand' — acting with deliberate defiance or arrogance toward God
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 15:30
What does Numbers 15:30 mean?
Anyone, native or sojourner, who sins presumptuously—with deliberate defiance—reproaches the LORD and shall be cut off from the people.
What is the context of Numbers 15:30?
God distinguishes between unintentional and intentional sins, treating them with different severities.