Numbers 6:5
All the days of the vow of his separation there shall no razor come upon his head: until the days be fulfilled, in the which he separateth himself unto the LORD, he shall be holy, and shall let the locks of the hair of his head grow.
Numbers 6:5 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Numbers outlines the requirements for a Nazirite vow, which is a period of consecration to the Lord. During this time, the individual makes a commitment to abstain from certain things, including refraining from cutting their hair. The verse states that during the duration of the vow, the individual must let the locks of their hair grow long as a sign of their separation and dedication to God. By not cutting their hair, they demonstrate their commitment to keeping the vow holy and set apart for the Lord. This act symbolizes their devotion and submission to God's will during the period of separation. The length of the vow varies, but until it is completed, the individual is to maintain their uncut hair as a visible sign of their consecration to God.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Numbers outlines the regulations for a Nazirite vow, a vow of consecration to the Lord taken by individuals seeking to dedicate themselves to God. The prohibition against cutting the hair during this vow symbolizes the vow-taker's commitment to holiness and separation from worldly influences. The requirement to let the hair grow represents a visible sign of the individual's devotion to God and serves as a reminder of their consecration. This act of setting oneself apart for God demonstrates a willingness to live a life of purity and obedience. The vow of separation was a voluntary act that allowed individuals to draw closer to the Lord and experience a deeper intimacy with Him. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of personal consecration and sacrifice in the pursuit of holiness and spiritual growth. It reminds believers of the significance of obedience and devotion in their relationship with God.
Numbers 6:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
All the days of his vow of separation there shall no razor come upon his head: until the days be fulfilled, in which he separateth himself unto Jehovah, he shall be holy; he shall let the locks of the hair of his head grow long.
World English Bible
“‘All the days of his vow of separation no razor shall come on his head, until the days are fulfilled, in which he separates himself to Yahweh. He shall be holy. He shall let the locks of the hair of his head grow long.
Douay-Rheims
All the time of his separation no razor shall pass over his head, until the day be fulfilled of his consecration to the Lord. He shall be holy, and shall let the hair of his head grow.
Geneva Bible (1599)
While hee is separate by his vowe, the rasor shall not come vpon his head, vntill the dayes be out, in the which he separateth him selfe vnto the Lord, he shalbe holy, and shall let the lockes of the heare of his head growe.