Numbers 27:21

Numbers 27:21 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will seek counsel for him before the LORD by the judgment of the Urim. At his command, he and all the Israelites with him—the entire congregation—will go out and come in.”

King James Version KJV

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.

American Standard Version ASV

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire for him by the judgment of the Urim before Jehovah: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.

Bible in Basic English BBE

He will take his place before Eleazar the priest, so that he may get directions from the Lord for him, with the Urim: at his word they will go out, and at his word they will come in, he and all the children of Israel.

Free Bible Version FBV

When he needs instructions, he is to go before Eleazar the priest who will ask the Lord on his behalf and find out the decision using the Urim. Joshua will give orders to all the Israelites concerning everything they are to do.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And he shall stande before Eleazar the Priest, who shall aske counsell for him by the iudgement of Vrim before the Lord: at his worde they shall goe out, and at his worde they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him and all the Congregation.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

'And before Eleazar the priest he standeth, and he hath asked for him by the judgment of the Lights before Jehovah; at His word they go out, and at His word they come in; he, and all the sons of Israel with him, even all the company.'

World English Bible WEB

He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire for him by the judgment of the Urim before the LORD. At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

If any thing be to be done, Eleazar the priest shall consult the Lord for him. He and all the children of Israel with him, and the rest of the multitude shall go out and go in at his word.

Translation for Translators T4T

When you all need me to guide you, Joshua will stand in front of Eleazar. Then by ◄casting lots/throwing marked stones on the ground► Eleazar will find out what they should do.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — Numbers 27:21

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Numbers 27:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֨י אֶלְעָזָ֤ר הַ/כֹּהֵן֙ יַעֲמֹ֔ד וְ/שָׁ֥אַל ל֛/וֹ בְּ/מִשְׁפַּ֥ט הָ/אוּרִ֖ים לִ/פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה עַל פִּ֨י/ו יֵצְא֜וּ וְ/עַל פִּ֣י/ו יָבֹ֗אוּ ה֛וּא וְ/כָל בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל אִתּ֖/וֹ וְ/כָל הָ/עֵדָֽה

וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֨י pânîym H6440 face Conj | Prep | N-cp

אֶלְעָזָ֤ר ʼElʻâzâr H499 Eleazar N-proper

הַ/כֹּהֵן֙ kôhên H3548 priest Art | N-ms

יַעֲמֹ֔ד ʻâmad H5975 to stand V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

וְ/שָׁ֥אַל shâʼal H7592 to ask Conj | V-Qal-3ms

ל֛/וֹ Prep | Suff

בְּ/מִשְׁפַּ֥ט mishpâṭ H4941 justice Prep | N-ms

הָ/אוּרִ֖ים ʼÛwrîym H224 Urim Art | N-mp

לִ/פְנֵ֣י pânîym H6440 face Prep | N-cp

יְהוָ֑ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

פִּ֨י/ו peh H6310 lip N-ms | Suff

יֵצְא֜וּ yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

וְ/עַל ʻal H5921 upon Conj | Prep

פִּ֣י/ו peh H6310 lip N-ms | Suff

יָבֹ֗אוּ bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

ה֛וּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Pron

וְ/כָל kôl H3605 all Conj | N-ms

בְּנֵי bên H1121 son N-mp

יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אִתּ֖/וֹ ʼêth H854 with Prep | Suff

וְ/כָל kôl H3605 all Conj | N-ms

הָ/עֵדָֽה ʻêdâh H5712 congregation Art | N-fs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Numbers 27:21

וְ/לִ/פְנֵ֨י pânîym H6440 "face" Conj | Prep | N-cp

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

אֶלְעָזָ֤ר ʼElʻâzâr H499 "Eleazar" N-proper

Eleazar means God has helped, and was the name of several Israelites, including a high priest and one of David's warriors.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.42 § Eleazar = "God has helped" 1) the high priest son of Aaron 2) Abinadab's son who cared for the ark 3) the priest who rebuilt and dedicated the restored walls of Jerusalem in time of Ezra 4) one of David's mighty warriors 5) a Levite 6) one of the line of Parosh

Usage: Occurs in 70 OT verses. KJV: Eleazar. See also: Exodus 6:23; Numbers 31:51; Nehemiah 12:42.

הַ/כֹּהֵן֙ kôhên H3548 "priest" Art | N-ms

In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.

Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)

Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.

יַעֲמֹ֔ד ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.

Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before

Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.

וְ/שָׁ֥אַל shâʼal H7592 "to ask" Conj | V-Qal-3ms

To ask or inquire, this Hebrew word is used in the Bible to describe seeking information or requesting something. It can also mean to beg or borrow, and is used in many different contexts throughout the Old Testament. The KJV translates it as ask, beg, or borrow.

Definition: 1) to ask, enquire, borrow, beg 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to ask, ask for 1a2) to ask (as a favour), borrow 1a3) to enquire, enquire of 1a4) to enquire of, consult (of deity, oracle) 1a5) to seek 1b) (Niphal) to ask for oneself, ask leave of absence 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to enquire, enquire carefully 1c2) to beg, practise beggary 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to be given on request 1d2) to grant, make over to, let (one) ask (successfully) or give or lend on request (then) grant or make over to Aramaic equivalent: she.el (שְׁאֵל "to ask" H7593)

Usage: Occurs in 157 OT verses. KJV: ask (counsel, on), beg, borrow, lay to charge, consult, demand, desire, [idiom] earnestly, enquire, [phrase] greet, obtain leave, lend, pray, request, require, [phrase] salute, [idiom] straitly, [idiom] surely, wish. See also: Genesis 24:47; 2 Samuel 8:10; Psalms 2:8.

ל֛/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

בְּ/מִשְׁפַּ֥ט mishpâṭ H4941 "justice" Prep | N-ms

Mishpat means justice or judgment, and is often used to describe God's righteous judgment, as well as human laws and decisions, in books like Deuteronomy and Isaiah.

Definition: : judgement/punishment 1) judgment, justice, ordinance 1a) judgment 1a1) act of deciding a case 1a2) place, court, seat of judgment 1a3) process, procedure, litigation (before judges) 1a4) case, cause (presented for judgment) 1a5) sentence, decision (of judgment) 1a6) execution (of judgment) 1a7) time (of judgment) 1b) justice, right, rectitude (attributes of God or man) 1c) ordinance 1d) decision (in law) 1e) right, privilege, due (legal) 1f) proper, fitting, measure, fitness, custom, manner, plan

Usage: Occurs in 406 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] adversary, ceremony, charge, [idiom] crime, custom, desert, determination, discretion, disposing, due, fashion, form, to be judged, judgment, just(-ice, -ly), (manner of) law(-ful), manner, measure, (due) order, ordinance, right, sentence, usest, [idiom] worthy, [phrase] wrong. See also: Genesis 18:19; 1 Kings 2:3; Psalms 1:5.

הָ/אוּרִ֖ים ʼÛwrîym H224 "Urim" Art | N-mp

Urim refers to the stones on the high-priest's breastplate, used to determine God's decisions. These stones were a key part of Israel's worship, providing guidance.

Definition: Urim = "lights" stones kept in a pouch on the high-priest's breastplate, used in determining God's decision in certain questions and issues Also named: dēlos (δῆλος "Urim" G1212)

Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: Urim. See also: Exodus 28:30; Deuteronomy 33:8; Nehemiah 7:65.

לִ/פְנֵ֣י pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | N-cp

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

יְהוָ֑ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

פִּ֨י/ו peh H6310 "lip" N-ms | Suff

In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.

Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21

Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.

יֵצְא֜וּ yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

וְ/עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Conj | Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

פִּ֣י/ו peh H6310 "lip" N-ms | Suff

יָבֹ֗אוּ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

ה֛וּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

וְ/כָל kôl H3605 "all" Conj | N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

בְּנֵי bên H1121 "son" N-mp

In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.

Definition: : child/son

Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

אִתּ֖/וֹ ʼêth H854 "with" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.

Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)

Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.

וְ/כָל kôl H3605 "all" Conj | N-ms

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

הָ/עֵדָֽה ʻêdâh H5712 "congregation" Art | N-fs

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gathering of people, like a congregation or crowd, often referring to a group of Israelites. It is used in various books, including Exodus and Psalms. The word is about people coming together.

Definition: congregation, gathering

Usage: Occurs in 140 OT verses. KJV: assembly, company, congregation, multitude, people, swarm. Compare H5713 (עֵדָה). See also: Exodus 12:3; Numbers 20:1; Psalms 1:5.

Study Notes — Numbers 27:21

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Sermons on Numbers 27:21

Context — Joshua to Succeed Moses

19Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and commission him in their sight. 20Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of Israel will obey him.

21He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who will seek counsel for him before the LORD by the judgment of the Urim. At his command, he and all the Israelites with him—the entire congregation—will go out and come in.”

22Moses did as the LORD had commanded him. He took Joshua, had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, 23and laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD had instructed through Moses.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Joshua 9:14	Then the men of Israel sampled their provisions, but did not seek the counsel of the LORD.
2	1 Samuel 28:6	He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets.
3	Exodus 28:30	And place the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece of judgment, so that they will also be over Aaron’s heart whenever he comes before the LORD. Aaron will continually carry the judgment of the sons of Israel over his heart before the LORD.
4	Judges 1:1	After the death of Joshua, the Israelites inquired of the LORD, “Who will be the first to go up and fight for us against the Canaanites?”
5	Deuteronomy 33:8	Concerning Levi he said: “Give Your Thummim to Levi and Your Urim to Your godly one, whom You tested at Massah and contested at the waters of Meribah.
6	Ezra 2:63	The governor ordered them not to eat the most holy things until there was a priest to consult the Urim and Thummim.
7	1 Samuel 22:10–15	Ahimelech inquired of the LORD for him and gave him provisions. He also gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.” Then the king sent messengers to summon Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and his father’s whole family, who were priests at Nob. And all of them came to the king. “Listen now, son of Ahitub,” said Saul. “Here I am, my lord,” he replied. And Saul asked him, “Why have you and the son of Jesse conspired against me? You gave him bread and a sword and inquired of God for him so that he could rise up against me to lie in wait, as he is doing today.” Ahimelech answered the king, “Who among all your servants is as faithful as David, the king’s son-in-law, the captain of your bodyguard who is honored in your house? Was that day the first time I inquired of God for him? Far be it from me! Let not the king accuse your servant or any of my father’s household, for your servant knew nothing of this whole affair—not in part or in whole.”
8	Judges 20:18	The Israelites set out, went up to Bethel, and inquired of God, “Who of us shall go up first to fight against the Benjamites?” “Judah will be first,” the LORD replied.
9	Leviticus 8:8	Then he put the breastpiece on him and placed the Urim and Thummim in the breastpiece.
10	Judges 20:23	They went up and wept before the LORD until evening, inquiring of Him, “Should we again draw near for battle against our brothers the Benjamites?” And the LORD answered, “Go up against them.”

Numbers 27:21 Summary

In Numbers 27:21, we see Joshua standing before Eleazar the priest, who seeks God's guidance for him using the Urim, which is similar to how we seek God's guidance through prayer and reading His Word, as encouraged in Psalm 119:105 and John 16:13. This verse reminds us that, like Joshua, we need to rely on God's guidance and direction in our lives, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Isaiah 30:21. By seeking God's counsel and following His leading, we can have confidence in our decisions and actions, just like Joshua did as the new leader of the Israelites, as seen in Joshua 1:7-9. This principle is also emphasized in other parts of the Bible, such as Jeremiah 29:12-13, where we are encouraged to call upon God and He will answer us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Eleazar the priest in Numbers 27:21?

Eleazar the priest plays a crucial role in seeking counsel for Joshua before the Lord by the judgment of the Urim, as instructed in Numbers 27:21, which is similar to how the Urim was used in Exodus 28:30 to guide the decisions of the high priest.

What does it mean to 'seek counsel before the LORD by the judgment of the Urim'?

The Urim was a sacred instrument used by the high priest to determine God's will, as seen in Exodus 28:30 and Leviticus 8:8, and in Numbers 27:21, it is used to guide Joshua's decisions as the new leader of the Israelites.

How does Numbers 27:21 relate to the concept of leadership in the Bible?

Numbers 27:21 highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and direction in leadership, as seen in the lives of Joshua and other biblical leaders, such as Moses in Deuteronomy 31:7-8 and David in 1 Samuel 23:2.

What can we learn from Joshua's reliance on Eleazar and the Urim in Numbers 27:21?

Joshua's reliance on Eleazar and the Urim demonstrates his humility and dependence on God, which is a key characteristic of effective leadership, as emphasized in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 37:3-7.

Reflection Questions

How can I, like Joshua, seek God's guidance and direction in my own life and decisions, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Jeremiah 29:12-13?
What are some ways I can cultivate a deeper sense of humility and dependence on God, as seen in Joshua's example in Numbers 27:21?
How can I apply the principle of seeking counsel from spiritual leaders, as seen in Numbers 27:21, to my own relationships and decision-making processes, as encouraged in Hebrews 13:17 and 1 Peter 5:1-5?
What are some key lessons from Numbers 27:21 that I can apply to my own role as a leader or follower in my community, as seen in 1 Corinthians 11:1 and Ephesians 5:1-2?

Gill's Exposition on Numbers 27:21

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest,.... This was for the honour of God, whose priest Eleazar was, and whose oracle was consulted by him; for it is said (z), the high priest did not come

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 27:21

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 27:21

Who shall ask counsel for him, when he requires him to do so, and in important and difficult matters. See 20:18 . After the judgment, or, by or from the judgment, i.e. by seeking and receiving and communicating to him the judgment or sentence thereby given: or, by the judgment is here put defectively for by the breastplate of judgment, as it is called , as the testimony is oft put for the ark of the testimony. Or, concerning the judgment; or sentence, i.e. what the mind and will of God is in the matter. Or, after the manner or rite, for so the Hebrew word mishpat here used oft signifies. Urim, understand, and of Thummim, for these two generally go together; only here, as also , Urim is synecdochically, put for both Urim and Thummim. For the manner of this inquiry and answer, see on . Before the Lord; ordinarily in the tabernacle near the second veil, setting his face to the ark, or otherwise presenting himself as in God’ s presence, as Abiathar did by David’ s direction, , when they were both banished from the ark. At his word, i.e. the word of the Lord, last mentioned, delivered to him by the high priest.

Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 27:21

(21) After the judgment of Urim . . . —See Exodus 28:30, and Note. At his word . . . —i.e., Joshua and the children of Israel were to abide by the decision of the high priest, which was obtained by means of Urim and Thummim.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Numbers 27:21

Verse 21. Eleazar the priest - shall ask counsel for him] Here was a remarkable difference between him and Moses. God talked with Moses face to face; but to Joshua only through the medium of the high priest.

Cambridge Bible on Numbers 27:21

21. the Urim] The sacred lot by which the priests ascertained the will of God. On the Urim and Tummim see the writer’s note on Exodus 28:30. This verse exemplifies the thought that Joshua’s dignity was to be less than that of Moses. Joshua must enquire of God’s will through the priest, whereas Moses always received commands straight from God Himself.

Barnes' Notes on Numbers 27:21

And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest ... - Joshua was thus to be inferior to what Moses had been.

Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 27:21

20, 21. Put some… honour upon him — “The eminence and authority of Moses were not to be entirely transferred to Joshua, for they were bound up with his own person alone, (Numbers 12:6-8,) but only so

Sermons on Numbers 27:21

	Sermon	Description
	Levi's Urim and Thummim Found With Christ. by John Gill	John Gill preaches on the significance of the Urim and Thummim, emphasizing that they represent the light and perfection found in Christ. He explains how these ancient tools were u
	A Covenant That Covers by William Carrol	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of making bad decisions and how they can become a part of our lives. He uses the analogy of being hewers of wood and drawers of w
	Joshua 9:3 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes the dangers of forming ungodly alliances, warning that God has commanded His people not to make treaties with unbelievers. He explains that such alliances ca
	Joshua 1 - 13 by John Nelson Darby	John Nelson Darby explores the themes of faith, obedience, and the spiritual journey of the Israelites as they prepare to cross the Jordan into Canaan. He emphasizes the importance
	(Demonology) Wizards Witches Sorcery Spiritism by Willie Mullan	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the audience and informs them that there are books available for purchase. However, these books are specifically made for the audience and not
	Pure Heart, Pure Church - Part 3 by Leonard Ravenhill	This sermon delves into the consequences of forsaking God, using the example of a man who was once anointed by the Holy Spirit but tragically ended his life in suicide. It emphasiz
	Commentary Notes - I Samuel by Walter Beuttler	Walter Beuttler preaches on the Book of I Samuel, highlighting the transition of Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy through the rise and fall of King Saul. The key theme of the