Numbers 5:24-26 "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons..."

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them,
The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:
The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:22-26 KJV).

Question:

This has been a meaningful part of scripture for me since childhood. Recently it has been coming into my mind as I bless others in prayer. I found the version that I remembered in the King James Bible. Thank you for your help with this.

Comment:

This lovely and powerful passage is one of the oldest formal blessings we have in the Judeo-Christian tradition. It has been found outside Jerusalem, inscribed on silver plaques dating from the seventh century BCE. And yet it is not dated at all; it is as meaningful and resonant today as it has ever been—perhaps more so, as our spiritual understanding has grown and expanded through time. Metaphysically, it's an affirmation of our innate, intimate Oneness with God as the Christ—the LORD of our being. This blessing does not invoke a distant God of Power and Might, but a close, caring Presence. When we extend this blessing to others we are affirming the Christ of God that is their true spiritual identity; we are not asking for a divine intervention, but rather affirming a spiritual Truth. God is with us, always, available to express as light, peace and infinite love according to the choices we make.   Blessings!

Rev. Ed