The number 15 is often mentioned in the Bible, but its symbolic meaning is far from clear. Some say it’s a sign of God’s judgment while others argue it’s a signal of divine hope. Whatever the interpretation, it’s a important number to many Bible scholars and readers. To get to the bottom of it, let’s look at some key passages in the Old and New Testaments, as well as what experts have to say.
Number 15 in the Torah
In the Torah, 15 is used as a measurement for everything from building materials to offerings. For instance, in Exodus 38:24-25, we learn that Aaron and his sons carried out the altar’s measurements of 30 cubits long and 15 cubits wide. Also in Exodus, we see offerings of silver, gold, and brass – all in multiples of 15.
In Leviticus, number 15 is referred to the Passover Festival, the 15th day of Nisan. This day signifies when the children of Israel were freed from slavery in Egypt and was celebrated in the festival of unleavened bread.
But why would number 15 be so integral to these events? Bernard Bamberger, author of The Story of Numbers: From 1 to Infinity, suggest this may be because for ancient Hebrew culture, 60 was the perfect number, the product of their number six, the number associated with perfection. Thus, the number 15 was seen as containing a third of perfection. In other words, embracing 15 was a way of embracing the fullness of God’s perfection.
Number 15 in the New Testament
In the New Testament, 15 is also used as a measurement. For example, in the book of Matthew, when Jesus is asked “What is the greatest commandment?” He responds with: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” The number 15 here represents the perfection and completeness of this statement.
When we look at the Parable of the Wedding Feast, in the book of Matthew, we also find the number 15. In this parable, a man has a wedding feast prepared for his son, and he sends out 15 invitations. This is not a coincidence; the number 15 represents a full complement and the importance placed on this occasion.
Some religious scholars argue the number 15 could symbolize divine protection. For instance, in Chapter 15 of the book of Isaiah, the prophet tells the people of Moab that God will protect them with a shield of 15 warriors. It’s a powerful message which could represent the complete protection of God.
Interpretations of 15 by Religious Experts
Interpretations of 15 vary widely among scholars and religious leaders. Richard Bauckham, professor of New Testament at the University of St. Andrews, believes 15 could represent the fullness of greatness and agree with Bamberger’s suggestion of 15 representing a third of perfection found in the number 60. He suggests that, when it appears in the Bible, it alludes to God’s grace.
The late Pope Francis offered a different interpretation when he said: “To love the Lord with all your heart is one thing, but to love the Lord and your neighbor is another thing”. Here Francis argues the number 15 is not just about the love of God but also the love of one’s neighbor, emphasizing the importance of unity, togetherness and collaboration.
15 as a Symbolic Number
Various religious leaders point to a symbolic reading of number 15 rather than a literal one. Archbishop Michael M. Augruso of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York sees 15 as symbolizing faith, hope and love. He believes it’s a reminder to express those feelings through love, forgiveness and humble action.
Biblical theologian Dr. David V. Nystrom is an advocate of 15 being a symbol of divine purpose. He suggests this number refers to God’s method of drawing people into a closer relationship, rather than its literal interpretation as a measurement.
15 as a Numerical Symbol
While the symbolic interpretation of number 15 may seem more potent to many, for some the numerical interpretation of 15 is more intriguing. When we add the corresponding numerical values of the letters in the Hebrew name for God – Yud-Heh-Vav-Heh – we get the number 15. But does this mean something?
Theological scholar Ari L. Goldman suggests the numerical value of 15 links to the divine nature of God. He notes that the Mishna and Gemara of the Talmud explain that these four letters, and thus the numerical value of 15, represent ‘the four letters of Divine compassion’ – a reminder of God’s power.
15 and the Number of Divine Perfection
The number 15 is often used to represent the notion of divine perfection and holiness found in God. This can be seen in the Term the 15th of Elul, the sixth month of the Hebrew calendar. The 15th day of Elul is seen as a day of special preparation for Rosh Hashanah, the holy day which celebrates the creation of the world.
Archbishop Augruso contends that the 15th of Elul signifies a time of repentance. It’s a reminder of God’s grace and mercy and a time for us to turn our hearts to God and away from sin. By noting this day, it’s suggested we are striving for perfection, just as 15 respects 60, the perfect number.
Conclusion
The number 15 holds various symbolic meanings in the Bible, from divine protection and grace to a symbol of unity and courage. Scholars, theologians, and even religious leaders all make different interpretations of it, but the common thread is that it’s a reminder of God’s perfection, as well as our responsibilities. It’s a powerful number with a huge amount of history, and it’s clear from studying its legacy in the Bible, why it remains an important part of religious practice today.
