Numbers 6:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And he shall consecrate unto the LORD the days of his separation, and shall bring a lamb of the first year for a trespass offering: but the days that were before shall be lost, because his separation was defiled.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →After accidental defilement, the Nazarite must begin the vow anew, with prior days not counting.
The Context of Numbers 6:12
The vow period must be restarted after defilement.
What Does Numbers 6:12 Mean?
This requirement shows that the vow demands continuous, unbroken dedication. Days spent in defilement cannot count toward the vow period, even if the defilement was unavoidable. The Nazarite must restart, bringing a lamb as a trespass offering to acknowledge the disruption and begin afresh. The loss of the prior days' count adds a genuine cost to the accident.
This rule maintains the integrity of the Nazarite vow while acknowledging unavoidable circumstances. It does not punish the person for the accident, but it does require that the full, intended duration of separation be completed in unbroken purity. The lamb offering and fresh start allow the Nazarite to pursue the goal completely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 6:12
What does Numbers 6:12 mean?
After accidental defilement, the Nazarite must begin the vow anew, with prior days not counting.
What is the context of Numbers 6:12?
The vow period must be restarted after defilement.