Christmas Season · Holy Name of Jesus · Year B
Numbers 6:22-27
The Priestly Blessing
January 1, 2027
Overview & Insights
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you.” (Numbers 6:24-25)
Why the Aaronic blessing occurs after the section on the Nazirite is not clear. Was it pronounced over the Nazirites at the beginning or the end of their vows? That is uncertain, though such blessings could occur after offering sacrifice (2 Sam. 6:18). In any event, the purpose of the blessings here is more general. Aaron’s blessing sums up God’s overall wish to bless his people, especially as they in turn strive for purity and dedication to him.
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Commentary
Numbers 6:22-27 Working Preacher
A commentary on the Aaronic blessing and how God's own name is placed upon the people.
Numbers 6 Enduring Word · David Guzik
An evangelical commentary on Numbers 6, treating the Nazirite vow and the threefold priestly benediction.
Numbers 6 resources Precept Austin
A deep study collection with Hebrew word studies and cross-references on the priestly blessing.
Classic commentaries on Numbers 6 BibleHub
Parallel translations and classic public-domain commentaries assembled for Numbers 6.
Background & Word Study
Numbers 6 in Hebrew, with Jewish commentary Sefaria
The Hebrew text with Rashi and other Jewish commentators, essential for the priestly blessing in its original setting.
Introduction to Numbers Enter the Bible
A book introduction with background on the wilderness narrative and priestly material that houses the blessing.
Overview: Numbers BibleProject
An animated overview tracing the structure and theology of Numbers to situate the blessing text.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is the priestly blessing?
God gives Aaron and his sons the words with which to bless Israel, putting his name upon the people; it is the church's benediction to this day.
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