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Numbers 30:4

And her father hear her vow, and her bond wherewith she hath bound her soul, and her father shall hold his peace at her: then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she hath bound her soul shall stand.

Numbers 30:4 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, Chapter 30, Verse 4, it speaks about the importance of keeping vows and commitments, specifically in the context of a daughter making a vow. According to this passage, if a daughter makes a vow or commits herself to something, and her father hears about it but does not object, then her vow must be honored. This demonstrates the significance of parental authority and the power of one's words and promises. It emphasizes the idea that vows should not be taken lightly and that they have a profound impact on one's life and soul. The verse serves as a reminder for individuals to think carefully before making commitments and to uphold their promises with integrity. By understanding and following this guidance, one can strive to live a life of honesty, accountability, and responsibility.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of keeping one's word and the authority of parental approval in ancient times. In this context, a daughter makes a vow or oath, which her father hears and chooses not to annul. This demonstrates the father's acceptance of his daughter's commitment, allowing her vows and obligations to be upheld. The act of making a vow is considered a serious matter, as it involves binding one's soul to a promise. The father's silence implies his agreement with the daughter's decision, reinforcing the idea of familial approval and support in religious matters. This verse underscores the importance of honoring agreements and respecting the authority and decisions of parents within the context of making vows and fulfilling obligations.

Numbers 30:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

and her father heareth her vow, and her bond wherewith she hath bound her soul, and her father holdeth his peace at her; then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she hath bound her soul shall stand.

World English Bible

and her father hears her vow, and her bond with which she has bound her soul, and her father holds his peace at her; then all her vows shall stand, and every bond with which she has bound her soul shall stand.

Douay-Rheims

If a woman vow any thing, and bind herself by an oath, being in her father's house, and but yet a girl in age: if her father knew the vow that she hath promised, and the oath wherewith she hath bound her soul, and held his peace, she shall be bound by the vow:

Geneva Bible (1599)

If a woman also vow a vow vnto the Lord, and binde her selfe by a bonde, being in her fathers house, in the time of her youth,