Numbers 27:16

16 "Lord, you are the God who creates the spirits of all people. Please appoint a man to lead this community.

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 "The community refused to obey me at the waters of Meribah Kadesh. At that time, you and Aaron did not obey my command. You did not honor me in front of them as the holy God." Meribah Kadesh is in the Desert of Zin.

15 Moses spoke to the Lord. He said,

16 "Lord, you are the God who creates the spirits of all people. Please appoint a man to lead this community.

17 Put him in charge of them. Tell him to take care of them. Then your people won't be like sheep that don't have a shepherd."

18 So the LORD said to Moses, "Joshua, the son of Nun, has the ability to be a wise leader. Get him and place your hand on him.