Category: Numbers
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Impurity: Type 1 and Type 2
Why does the Bible talk so much about purity – and what on earth does “unclean” actually mean? In this issue, we dive into one of the most puzzling parts of Scripture: the purity laws of Leviticus. Drawing on Geoffrey Harper’s recent book ‘You Shall Be Clean’, we explore the fascinating distinction between two kinds…
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Funny How Time Flies … in Numbers!
It is easy to overlook because there are so few data points: the flow of time in Exodus through Deuteronomy. Here, I present an exercise that I like to include in teaching the book of Numbers, as it provides a clear picture of Israel’s journey and stay at Mount Sinai. It also strikingly illustrates and…
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Sacrifices and Purity Laws: Do We Need a Red Heifer?
For the first time in many (many) years, I taught the book of Numbers this January. I often get asked what my favourite book of the Bible is. My answer has never been: “Numbers!” But I must say, as I spent time reflecting on this book, it grew on me. Or perhaps more accurately, it…
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Six Reasons to Read the Book of Numbers
When Was the Last Time You Read the Book of Numbers? I read the book to write this letter, of course, just so that I could have Uncle Sam point his finger at you! Seriously though, this book is worth reading. Whoever decided to publish it under the title “Numbers” did not understand much about…