What does Numbers 6:24 mean?
“‘May the LORD bless you and keep you;”
Quick answer
‘The LORD bless you and keep you’ begins the priestly blessing—God’s desire to bless and protect his people.
What it means
This is the start of the Aaronic blessing God gave for priests to speak over Israel, invoking his favor and protection.
To be ‘kept’ is to be guarded by God; the blessing continues with his shining face and peace (6:25–26).
Common questions
What is the priestly blessing?
The blessing of Numbers 6:24–26, in which God promises to bless, keep, be gracious to, and give peace to his people.
Key words in this verse
בָרַךְ bârak “to bless, kneel” H1288 שָׁלוֹם shâlôwm “peace, wholeness” H7965 שָׁמַר shâmar “to keep, guard, watch” H8104
Hebrew word studies — original-language background to the verse.
Keep exploring
Original BibleDawn explanation · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.