MPV Commentary

Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.

Currently viewing commentary for Numbers 9

Sections for Numbers 9
Nu 9:1-5 The Passover Enjoined.
Nu 9:6-14 A Second Passover Allowed.
Nu 9:15-23 A Cloud Guides the Israelites.
Nu 9:15-23 A Cloud Guides the Israelites.

A Cloud Guides the Israelites.

The cloud that covered the tabernacle was a visible token of God's special presence and care for the Israelites (Ex 14:20; Ps 105:39). It stood out from other clouds due to its distinctive form and fixed position, resting on the part of the sanctuary containing the ark of the testimony (Le 16:2).

When the cloud was lifted up to a higher elevation, it signaled that it was time for the Israelites to move. This movement was not arbitrary; rather, it was a direct result of God's command, given through the visible token of His presence. The cloud's motion regulated the start and end of all the Israelites' journeys (see Ex 14:19).

When the cloud lingered over the tabernacle for an extended period, the Israelites remained in obedience to God's charge, refusing to move until He gave them further instruction. This was not always easy, as they had grown accustomed to a nomadic lifestyle and often yearned to hasten their journey to Canaan. However, they recognized that the cloud's phases indicated God's command, and they patiently waited for His guidance.