NUMBER FIFTEEN (15-1)

1. Introduction

a) In Scripture the number 15 pictures rest, which comes after deliverance, represented by fourteen. The 15th day of the first month is the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a day of rest for the children of Israel. The 15th day of the 7th month begins the Feast of Tabernacles, also a day of rest. It is interesting to note what other mention(s) for 15 can be found in the Bible.

2. What does the resurrection and fifteen have in common?

a) Fifteen being 8 + 7 as well as 3 x 5, it may also include a reference to resurrection, as being a special mark of the energy of Divine grace issuing in glory.

b) A few examples may suffice:

i) The Ark was borne by the Flood fifteen cubits upwards, Genesis 7:20.

ii) Hezekiah's reprieve from death was fifteen years, 2Kings 20:6.

iii) The Jews were delivered from death under Esther on the fifteenth day of the month (9:18,21). This is specially significant, as we have seen, that their sentence to death was connected with the number thirteen.

iv) Bethany, where Lazarus was raised, and from whence the Lord ascended, was 15 furlongs from Jerusalem, John 11:18.

v) Paul's ship anchored safely in fifteen fathoms on the 14th day, after thirteen days of toil and trial, Acts 27:21.

vi) On the fifteenth day of the first month was the feast of unleavened bread, Leviticus 23:6.

vii) On the fifteenth day of the seventh month was the feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:34).