Numbers 12:6
And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.
Numbers 12:6 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream." signifies the way in which God communicates with prophets. In this passage, God is emphasizing that he will reveal himself to those chosen as prophets through visions and dreams. This method of communication is significant as it shows the direct connection between God and his chosen messenger. Visions and dreams are powerful tools through which God can impart his messages and guidance to his prophets, allowing them to understand and relay his will to others. By speaking to prophets in this way, God establishes a clear line of communication and ensures that his divine messages are received and understood by those entrusted with sharing them with the world.
Theological Overview
In this verse, God is revealing his plan for communicating with his chosen prophets. The use of the terms "vision" and "dream" indicate the supernatural ways in which God will impart his messages to these individuals. The term "vision" refers to a direct visual encounter with a message from God, while "dream" suggests a more indirect method of communication through symbolic dream imagery. This passage highlights the special relationship between God and his prophets, where He chooses to reveal himself in unique and powerful ways. Through visions and dreams, God would speak directly to these prophets, guiding them and revealing important messages that would impact the community and further His divine plan. This verse serves as a reminder of the extraordinary ways in which God communicates with his chosen messengers, underscoring the importance of paying attention to the signs and revelations that He provides.
Numbers 12:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said, Hear now my words: if there be a prophet among you, I Jehovah will make myself known unto him in a vision, I will speak with him in a dream.
World English Bible
He said, “Now hear my words. If there is a prophet among you, I, Yahweh, will make myself known to him in a vision. I will speak with him in a dream.
Douay-Rheims
He said to them: Hear my words: if there be among you a prophet of the Lord, I will appear to him in a vision, or I will speak to him in a dream.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And hee saide, Heare nowe my wordes, If there be a Prophet of the Lord among you, I will be knowen to him by a vision, and will speake vnto him by dreame.