Meaning of Numbers 20:6

This verse describes a pivotal moment where Moses and Aaron, responding to a divine summons, prostrate themselves before the Lord at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, and in that posture of humility and reverence, the glory of the Lord is revealed to them. This manifestation signifies a direct encounter with God's presence, not as a casual observation, but as a consequence of their obedience and their designated role as intermediaries between God and Israel. The setting at the "entrance to the tent of meeting" is significant, marking it as the designated place for divine communication and revelation, a threshold between the human and the divine. Their falling facedown is an act of profound worship and submission, acknowledging God's supreme authority and power, and it is precisely in this attitude of self-abasement that God chooses to reveal Himself.

Context and Background

This event occurs during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings, specifically at the second instance of a water crisis in the Sinai wilderness (Numbers 20:1-13). The people are again complaining and demanding water, and God instructs Moses to speak to a rock to bring forth water. However, in a moment of profound disobedience and anger, Moses strikes the rock twice instead of speaking to it, an action that leads to divine judgment against him and Aaron, barring them from entering the Promised Land. This verse, therefore, precedes and sets the stage for this critical sin and its consequences, highlighting the sacredness of the moment and the weight of the divine presence that was about to be mishandled.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Presence and Revelation: The "glory of the Lord" (Hebrew: kabod Yahweh) is a visible manifestation of God's presence, power, and majesty. Its appearance signifies a direct, personal encounter with the divine.
• Humility and Worship: Moses and Aaron's act of falling facedown is a posture of deep reverence, acknowledging their creaturely status before their Creator. It underscores that divine revelation is often granted to the humble.
• The Sacredness of Divine Communication: The Tent of Meeting was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, and its entrance was a place where divine instructions were given. The appearance of God's glory here emphasizes the profound nature of this communication.
• Responsibility of Leadership: As leaders, Moses and Aaron bore a significant responsibility in their interactions with God and the people. Their actions at this threshold carried immense weight.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage speaks to the profound truth that God makes His presence known to those who approach Him with humility and reverence. When individuals, particularly leaders, are in postures of submission and worship, they are more attuned to perceive and experience God's glory. It teaches that divine revelation is not earned through merit but is a gracious gift bestowed upon those who are willing to be vulnerable and dependent before Him. For believers today, it is a call to cultivate a similar attitude of humility in prayer and worship, recognizing that in such states, we are best positioned to encounter God's presence and receive His guidance.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The manifestation of God's glory is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, from the burning bush (Exodus 3:2) to the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:1-8) and the eschatological vision of God's ultimate glory filling the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:23). This instance in Numbers serves as an early example of God's tangible presence dwelling among His people, a foreshadowing of the Incarnation, where God's glory would dwell fully in human form. It also highlights the covenantal relationship God has with Israel, where His presence is promised but also contingent upon their obedience and the faithfulness of their leaders.

Analogies

One analogy for the appearance of God's glory could be akin to a powerful, unseen force becoming momentarily visible, like a powerful magnetic field suddenly manifesting as visible lines of force when iron filings are present. Or, imagine a sovereign king entering a humble dwelling; his presence would transform the atmosphere, making his authority and majesty undeniable. Similarly, the "glory of the Lord" is an overwhelming manifestation of His divine essence, making His presence palpable and awe-inspiring.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 40:34-35: "Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle." This passage describes a similar, though more pervasive, manifestation of God's glory filling the entire Tabernacle, emphasizing God's dwelling among His people.
• Psalm 96:6: "Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary." This psalm speaks of the inherent glory and majesty of God, which is found within His dwelling place, the sanctuary.
• John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This New Testament verse connects the concept of God's glory to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate manifestation of God's presence and glory among humanity.
• 1 Corinthians 2:7: "But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory." This verse suggests that God's glory is part of His eternal plan, and He reveals it to those who are called.