Numbers 18:7

French (La Bible expliquée)

Mais toi, Aaron, et tes descendants, vous accomplirez votre ministère de prêtres à l'autel et dans le lieu très saint derrière le rideau de séparation. C'est moi qui vous fais don de ce ministère; si quelqu'un d'autre s'approche du sanctuaire, il devra être mis à mort. » Ici Dieu s'adresse directement à Aaron. Partout ailleurs, il transmet ses instructions par l'intermédiaire de Moïse. Les prêtres assument le risque du contact avec l'autel. Les lévites s'exposent moins que les prêtres, mais eux aussi jouent un rôle en protégeant la communauté laïque du contact avec le sanctuaire. La fonction du clergé est exprimée en 18.1: « Vous serez désormais tenus pour responsables », littéralement « Vous porterez la faute ». Les prêtres et, à un moindre degré les lévites, portent la faute, en ce sens qu'ils protègent la communauté en prenant le danger sur eux. Ils n'en subissent pas de dommage, parce qu'ils ont été mis à part par Dieu précisément dans ce but.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells the priests that they and their sons must take care of the duties at the altar and inside the tabernacle. The Lord has given them this job as a gift, and anyone else who tries to do these tasks will be punished. God is speaking to the priests, emphasizing the importance of their role and the exclusivity of their duties.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special job to take care of a big, magical tree in your backyard. Only you and your family can touch it, and if someone else tries to take care of it, they get in big trouble. God is telling the priests that they have a special job, just like you with the magical tree, and only they can do it.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Book of Numbers, which was written by Moses around 1400 BC. It was addressed to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The cultural setting is one where priests played a central role in religious and community life.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse can be seen as a reminder of the importance of respecting roles and boundaries. For example, if someone is a professional in a specific field, it's important to respect their expertise and not attempt tasks that could be dangerous or inappropriate without the proper training.

Topics

• priesthood
• duty
• obedience
• God's gifts
• special roles
• boundaries

Related Verses

• Exodus 29:33
• Leviticus 10:1-2
• Numbers 3:10
• Numbers 18:22
• Hebrews 5:4

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in Numbers 18:7?

God is speaking to the priests through this verse, emphasizing the exclusivity and importance of their duties.

What happens if someone else tries to do the priests' job?

According to the verse, anyone who is not a priest and tries to perform the priestly duties will be put to death, highlighting the strict boundaries around the priests' role.

Why is this priestly office considered a gift?

The priestly office is considered a gift because it involves a special relationship with God and a unique role within the community, which is a privilege and honor given by God.

How does this relate to modern professions?

In modern terms, this can relate to the importance of respecting professional boundaries and the expertise of those in specific roles, recognizing the value and significance of their work.