The voluntary vow of separation to YHWH described in Numbers 6:1-21. The Hebrew nazir (separated, consecrated) names both the vow and its taker. Three external distinctives marked the Nazirite during the vow period: (1) abstention from wine, strong drink, and any grape product (even raisins and grape seeds); (2) leaving the hair uncut for the entire vow period; (3) avoiding contact with any dead body, even of close family. The vow could be temporary (with a closing ceremony at the tabernacle/temple) or lifelong. Biblical lifelong Nazirites include Samson (Judg 13:5), Samuel (1 Sam 1:11; though the word Nazirite is not explicit), and John the Baptist (Luke 1:15). Paul took a temporary vow concluding at Cenchreae (Acts 18:18) and again in Jerusalem (Acts 21:23-26). The Nazirite's public uncut hair was visible testimony of dedication: the vow took on the man's body the marks of separation that distinguished him from ordinary Israelites. Christ Himself, though sometimes confused with Nazirite-style figures, was distinguished as a Nazarene (from Nazareth), not a Nazirite (Matt 2:23).