Albert Barnes Commentary Numbers 6:22-27

"And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel: ye shall say unto them, Jehovah bless thee, and keep thee: Jehovah make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: Jehovah lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. So shall they put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them." — Numbers 6:22-27 (ASV)

The priestly blessing is appointed as a solemn form to be used by the priests exclusively, and in this function their office, as it were, culminates (compare to Leviticus 9:22 note). God Himself provides a formula through which, from time to time, as His people by obedience place themselves in a true and right relationship to Him, the authorized mediators may pronounce and communicate His special blessing to them. It was a Jewish tradition that this blessing was given at the close of the daily sacrifice.

The structure of the blessing is remarkable. It is rhythmical, consists of three distinct parts, and mounts by gradual stages to that peace which forms the last and most consummate gift which God can give His people.

From a Christian point of view, and comparing the counterpart benediction of 2 Corinthians 13:14, it is impossible not to see shadowed forth the doctrine of the Holy Trinity (Matthew 28:19). And the three separate sets of terms correspond fittingly to the office of the Three Persons in Their gracious work for the redemption of man.

Numbers 6:24: The Lord bless you, and keep you. The second clause here, as in the other three verses, defines more closely the general tenor of the preceding one. The singular number, which is observed throughout, indicates that the blessing is conferred on Israel “collectively.”

Numbers 6:25: Make his face shine. This is an enhancement of the preceding benediction. “The face of God” signifies not merely God’s good will in general, but His active and special regard. With the “face” or “eye of the Lord,” accordingly, is connected the judicial visitation of the wicked (Psalms 34:16), and His mercies to the righteous (Psalms 4:6) alike.

Numbers 6:26: Lift up his countenance upon you. That is, especially direct His thought and care toward you (compare to 2 Kings 9:32, and similar phrases in Genesis 43:29; Genesis 44:21). Through such loving providence alone could the peace of God, in which the blessing closes, be given.

Numbers 6:27: Put my name upon the children of Israel. That is, pronounce My Sacred Name over them in blessing them. God will give effect to the benediction pronounced by the priests.