Numbers 17 explained: The Staff That Blossomed

Twelve staffs, one test (vv. 1-7)

After the revolt against Aaron in chapter 16, each tribal leader's staff, a dry stick marking his authority, was laid before the ark, the sacred chest in the tent's innermost room. The Hebrew word for staff can also mean tribe, so each stick stood for a whole tribe, with Aaron's name on Levi's.

Aaron's staff comes alive (vv. 8-9)

Overnight only Aaron's dead stick sprouted, showing buds, flowers and almonds all at once, which no ordinary branch does. Each leader then took back his own unchanged staff in public, so everyone could see the result for themselves.

Kept as a warning (vv. 10-11)

Aaron's staff went back before the ark as a lasting sign, meant to end the complaining before it cost more lives. Christians have often read this dead wood coming to life as a picture of Jesus, whom they see as the true priest raised from death.

The people's terror (vv. 12-13)

After so many deaths, the people fear that anyone who comes near the holy tent will die. Interpreters are unsure whether this is humble awe or a fresh complaint, and the next chapter answers by setting priests and Levites to guard the holy place.

Key verse: Numbers 17:8

Something to think about

When people disagree about who has the right to lead, what kind of evidence would actually settle it for you?