The Nazarite vow, as outlined in the Scriptures, is a special commitment made by individuals who choose to dedicate themselves to God for a specific period. This vow is characterized by abstinence from wine and strong drink, refraining from cutting one's hair, and avoiding contact with dead bodies (Numbers 6:1-21). The Nazarite vow is a profound expression of devotion and separation unto the Lord.

However, the Scriptures also address the situation where a Nazarite becomes defiled during the period of their vow. Defilement, particularly through contact with a dead body, is a significant concern, as it interrupts the state of holiness and separation that the vow represents. Numbers 6:9-12 provides specific instructions for a Nazarite who becomes defiled:

"If someone dies suddenly in his presence and defiles his consecrated head, he must shave his head on the day of his cleansing—the seventh day. On the eighth day, he must bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons to the priest at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. The priest is to offer one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering to make atonement for him, because he has sinned by being in the presence of the dead body. On that same day, he must consecrate his head again. He must rededicate his time of separation to the LORD and bring a year-old male lamb as a guilt offering. The previous days do not count, because his separation was defiled." (Numbers 6:9-12)

The process of recompense for a defiled Nazarite involves several key steps:

1. Shaving the Head: The Nazarite must shave his head on the seventh day of his cleansing. This act symbolizes the removal of the defilement and the beginning of a new period of consecration.

2. Offering Sacrifices: On the eighth day, the Nazarite is required to bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons to the priest. One is offered as a sin offering, and the other as a burnt offering. These sacrifices serve to atone for the defilement and restore the Nazarite to a state of purity.

3. Rededication: The Nazarite must rededicate his vow to the Lord, signifying a renewed commitment to the period of separation. This involves bringing a year-old male lamb as a guilt offering, also known as a trespass offering, to atone for the interruption of the vow.

4. Restarting the Vow: The days previously counted toward the vow are rendered void due to the defilement. The Nazarite must begin the period of separation anew, emphasizing the seriousness of maintaining holiness throughout the vow.

The requirement of a trespass offering underscores the gravity of defilement and the need for atonement. It reflects the broader biblical principle that sin and impurity must be addressed through sacrifice and repentance. The Nazarite vow, therefore, not only represents a personal commitment to God but also highlights the importance of maintaining purity and the provision of grace for restoration when defilement occurs.Numbers 6:12
And he shall consecrate to the LORD the days of his separation, and shall bring a lamb of the first year for a trespass offering: but the days that were before shall be lost, because his separation was defiled.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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