Seder 105 and 106: The Message of Numbers 5-6

 In the book of Numbers, narrative sections are interspersed with ritual and moral instruction.  For example, in Numbers 1-4, the camp of Israel is organized.  Then the narrative pauses in chapters 5-6 for instructions on ritual purity in the camp (5:1-4), reparation offerings (5;5-10), a case where a husband becomes jealous after his wife has been alone with another man (5:11-31), instructions for a Nazirite vow (6:1-21), and the priestly blessing (6:22-27).  On a first reading, the arrangement can seem rather random.

However, commentators have discerned an underlying structure in Numbers 5-6.  Michael Morales explains that Numbers 5-6 deals with the spiritual state of the Israelite camp:  

• 5:1-4----ritual purity of the camp.
• 5:5-10---purity in the realm of society.
• 5:11-31---purity in marriage and family.
• 6:1-21---purity of individuals before God.
• 6:22-27---purity in these realms leads to blessing from God going out through the camp.

Morales also sees in the juxtaposition of 5:11-31 and 6:1-21 a contrast between two possible paths for Israel, God's bride.  Israel can either stray from God, like the wife in 5:11-31; or Israel can grow in relationship with God, like the Nazirite in chapter 6.  

Moreover, Morales sees Israel functioning as a kind of Nazirite during its wilderness sojourn.  In the wilderness Israel does not have access to wine or grape products, but they are living with God in their midst and have an opportunity to draw closer to him.