Numbers 30:1-2
A vow was a way of magnifying the devotion of an individual in performing a certain task. Examples:
- Consecration by vow – Leviticus 27. Samuel was dedicated to the service of the Lord by Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:11. A person could also be vowed to the Lord and then redeemed.
- David made a vow when bringing the Ark to Jerusalem (Psalm 132:2-5).
- Jephthah made a vow to the Lord to gain victory (Judges 11:30-31)
Numbers 30:3-5
A vow of a young woman under the care of her father is subject to being overruled. If the father hears the vow and keeps his peace, she is bound to the vow by the Lord. If the father hears it and overrules it, she is not bound to her vow. The father can only intervene in the vows he is aware of.
Numbers 30:6-9
When the woman is married, she is now under the care of her husband. If she enters into the marriage under a vow and the husband hears of it, he may overrule it or let it stand.
If a woman becomes a widow or is divorced, she is no longer under the care of her husband. Any vow that is made by her shall stand.
Numbers 30:10-16
When a woman makes a vow within the marriage, her husband has the right to overrule that vow. Assuming that he heard of the vow, his silence is seen as approval and the vow stands. However, if he voids the vow, it shall not stand. He can cancel any vow or oath that is made to humble her or afflict her (13). If he says nothing and then makes causes her to break the vow, he will bear the guilt (and presumably the consequences). This keeps the husband from weaponizing the oath and vow.
© 2023 Doug Ford, Calvary Chapel Sweetwater
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