Nazirites

Nazirite (Hebrew: nazîr, plural nazîrîm) is a person who takes a vow of consecration to God described in the Torah, primarily in Numbers 6. The term comes from the Hebrew root nazar “to consecrate” or “to separate.” The Nazirite vow is voluntary and can be for a fixed term or, in some biblical accounts, for life.

During the vow, the Nazirite is required to abstain from wine and grape products, avoid cutting the hair on the head, and refrain from contact with corpses, even of close relatives. These prohibitions symbolize separation unto the Lord. If the Nazirite becomes defiled through contact with a corpse, the period is interrupted and the hair is shaved or the vow may be renewed according to priestly instruction; at completion, the Nazirite shaves his hair at the sanctuary and presents offerings described in Numbers.

Notable biblical Nazirites include Samson, who was consecrated from birth, and, in some readings, Samuel, who was dedicated by his mother. The figure of John the Baptist in Christian tradition is sometimes compared to a Nazirite due to his ascetic lifestyle, though this is not stated explicitly in the Hebrew Bible. In Rabbinic literature, Nazirites are treated as one category of biblical vows, illustrating ancient Hebrew ideas about holiness, restraint, and dedication.

In modern Judaism, the vow is not a common practice, but it serves as a case study in biblical law and devotion. The Nazirites occupy a distinct role alongside other forms of vows and sanctifications described in the biblical text.