Numbers 9:14
And if a stranger shall sojourn among you, and will keep the passover unto the LORD; according to the ordinance of the passover, and according to the manner thereof, so shall he do: ye shall have one ordinance, both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.
Numbers 9:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Numbers, the Lord instructs the people of Israel that all who dwell among them, whether native-born or strangers, are to observe the Passover in the same manner. This instruction emphasizes the importance of unity and equality among the people of God. It teaches that all individuals, regardless of their background or origin, are to follow the same ordinances and regulations set forth by the Lord. By enforcing this principle, the Lord reinforces the idea that His commandments apply to all who choose to follow Him, regardless of their heritage or status. This verse serves as a reminder that in the eyes of the Lord, all individuals are equal and should be treated as such. It promotes inclusivity and unity within the community of believers, emphasizing the idea that everyone is welcome to partake in the same blessings and responsibilities as long as they are willing to follow the Lord's teachings.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the inclusive nature of God's covenant with His people. The Passover was a key festivity in the Israelite calendar, commemorating their liberation from Egypt. By extending the invitation to celebrate the Passover to strangers living among them, God emphasizes that His covenant is not exclusive to a particular ethnic group or nationality. This demonstrates His desire for all people, regardless of their background, to partake in the blessings of His covenant. The equal treatment of the stranger and the native-born in observing the Passover reflects God's impartiality and love for all humanity. The word study in this verse reveals that the term "stranger" refers to a foreigner living among the Israelites. By emphasizing that the same rules and regulations applied to both the stranger and the native-born during the Passover celebration, God underscores the importance of unity and equality among His people, regardless of their differences. This verse serves as a reminder of God's inclusive and loving nature, extending His grace and mercy to all who seek to follow Him.
Numbers 9:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if a stranger shall sojourn among you, and will keep the passover unto Jehovah; according to the statute of the passover, and according to the ordinance thereof, so shall he do: ye shall have one statute, both for the sojourner, and for him that is born in the land.
World English Bible
“‘If a foreigner lives among you, and desires to keep the Passover to Yahweh; according to the statute of the Passover, and according to its ordinance, so shall he do. You shall have one statute, both for the foreigner, and for him who is born in the land.’”
Douay-Rheims
The sojourner also and the stranger if they be among you, shall make the phase to the Lord according to the ceremonies and justifications thereof. The same ordinances shall be with you both for the stranger, and for him that was born in the land.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And if a stranger dwell among you, and wil keepe the Passeouer vnto the Lord, as the ordinance of the Passeouer, and as the maner thereof is, so shall he do: ye shall haue one lawe both for the stranger, and for him that was borne in the same lande.