Numbers 27:16

16 "Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation,

Numbers 27:16 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 27:16

Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh
The Maker of the souls of men, called the spirits of all flesh, or of corporeal beings, to distinguish them from the angels, who, though spirits, are incorporeal; and who knows the different qualities of the souls of men, their powers, and capacities, and fitness for service, what gifts and talents they have for business; and who can bestow such upon them, which will quality them for it:

set a man over the congregation:
meaning in his room and stead.

Numbers 27:16 In-Context

14 because you rebelled against my word in the wilderness of Zin during the strife of the congregation, to sanctify me at the waters before their eyes." (These are the waters of Mer'ibah of Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin.)

15 Moses said to the LORD,

16 "Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation,

17 who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in; that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep which have no shepherd."

18 And the LORD said to Moses, "Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay your hand upon him;