The Nazarite vow, as outlined in the Scriptures, is a special commitment made by an individual to separate themselves unto the LORD. This vow involves abstaining from wine and other products derived from grapes, refraining from cutting one's hair, and avoiding contact with dead bodies (Numbers 6:1-21). The vow is a symbol of dedication and holiness, setting the Nazarite apart for God's service.

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, interrupts the vow and requires specific actions to restore the Nazarite's state of consecration.

According to Numbers 6:9-12 , if someone dies suddenly in the presence of a Nazarite, thus defiling their consecrated head, the Nazarite must undergo a purification process. The passage states:

"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 sinned by being in the presence of the dead body. On that same day, he must consecrate his head again."

The shaving of the head on the seventh day is a significant act, symbolizing the removal of defilement and the renewal of the vow. This act of shaving is not merely a physical cleansing but a spiritual reset, allowing the Nazarite to recommit to their vow of separation unto the LORD.

The requirement to bring offerings on the eighth day underscores the seriousness of the defilement and the need for atonement. The sin offering and burnt offering serve to restore the Nazarite's relationship with God, acknowledging the breach caused by the defilement and seeking divine forgiveness.

This process highlights the importance of purity and holiness in the life of a Nazarite. The vow is not just a personal commitment but a public declaration of one's dedication to God. The restoration process ensures that the Nazarite can continue their vow in a state of holiness, reflecting the sacred nature of their commitment.

The Nazarite vow, with its requirements and provisions for defilement, illustrates the broader biblical theme of holiness and the need for God's people to remain pure and set apart for His purposes.Numbers 6:9
And if any man die very suddenly by him, and he has defiled the head of his consecration; then he shall shave his head in the day of his cleansing, on the seventh day shall he shave it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Separation to God.
... one who became defiled, was defiled, whether intentionally ... be Nazarites, only and
always Nazarites, and through ... of the same proportions; while during the Feast ...
/.../taylor/separation and service/part i separation to god.htm

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... a reproach against Israel: [4805] "Ye gave my Nazarites wine to ... faith is one, and
she is not defiled by variety ... like it or not, and although you shave off your ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

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