Numbers 6:1-21

Read Numbers 6:1-21

Helpful Background Information: 

• In Judges 13:4-5, we’re told that Samson was to be set apart from birth as a Nazirite. That’s not a category most of us are familiar with today, so it’s worth taking a closer look at what it would have meant in the world of the original audience. 

• Back in Numbers 6, we find what we might call the Nazarite vow. This vow was a way of setting oneself apart for God’s special use, and it essentially included three basic prohibitions:

  • To refrain from drinking wine or any other intoxicating drink (6:1-4)

  • To refrain from cutting one’s hair for the duration of the vow (6:5)

  • To avoid coming into contact with a dead body (6:6-12)

• What’s interesting, is that even though Samson was well aware of his Nazarite status, he repeatedly violated the vows throughout his life. Ironically, Samson was rather careless about the calling on his life that was meant to be marked by a serious focus and devotion to God in a time of great need. 

Reflection Questions: 

• Samson was set apart by God from birth for a unique purpose. How does recognizing that your life belongs to God shape the way you think about your daily choices and priorities?

• The Nazirite vow was meant to reflect focused devotion and holiness. What distractions or compromises most often weaken your spiritual focus?

• God had gifted Samson greatly but his gifting did not guarantee faithfulness. How does Samson’s story challenge the assumption that gifting and spiritual maturity are the same thing?

• Despite Samson’s failures, God still worked through him in important ways. How does that encourage you while also warning you as you go forward?