Seventeen: An emphasis on the meaning of the number seven, i.e. thoroughly sanctified, or completely or entirely set apart for a purpose

The number seventeen relates to the significance of the numbers ten and seven. In other words, the number 17 expresses complete (10) sanctification. The example that is offered by Judaism is Joseph. In Genesis chapter 37, the reader is informed that he is going to encounter the genealogy of Jacob, but only one descendant is mentioned, Joseph. The first thing that is stated about Joseph is that he was 17 years old (Genesis 37:2). What the reader learns about Joseph is that he goes through a series of trials for several years, all of which prepare him for the purpose of becoming the leader of the world. In other words, Joseph was set apart for a period of sanctification so that he could be prepared for the purpose of God.

When examining the Scripture, one finds the number 17 clearly relating to the will of God, which relates to divine purpose. Once again, this setting apart for a purpose relates to the Biblical concept of holiness. The Scripture states that the rain began to fall on the 17 day of the month (Genesis 7:11), that the ark came to a rest on the 17 day of the month (Genesis 8:4), Jacob lived in the land of Egypt 17 years (Genesis 47:28), and that Jeremiah bought a field that was related to the will of God for 17 shekels (Jeremiah 32:9). 

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