(The Lord speaking is red text)
¶ These also [are] the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day [that] the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.
These are the descendants of Aharon and Moshe as of the day when ADONAI spoke with Moshe on Mount Sinai.
This is the account of Aaron and Moses at the time the LORD spoke with Moses on Mount Sinai.
Now these are the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day that Jehovah spake with Moses in mount Sinai.
These also are the generations{H8435} of Aaron{H175} and Moses{H4872} in the day{H3117} that the LORD{H3068} spake{H1696} with Moses{H4872} in mount{H2022} Sinai{H5514}.
Numbers 3:1 serves as a heading for the subsequent passage detailing the family records of Aaron and Moses. The verse is part of the Book of Numbers, which chronicles the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, including the census of the tribes and the organization of the camp.
**Themes:**
1. **Divine Instruction:** The phrase "in the day that the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai" emphasizes the theme of divine revelation, where God communicates directly with Moses to give him instructions for the Israelites.
2. **Genealogical Record:** The verse introduces a section focused on the lineage of Aaron and Moses, highlighting the importance of priestly lineage for the Levitical priesthood and the religious organization of the Israelites.
3. **Religious Authority:** By documenting the generations of Aaron and Moses, the text underscores the legitimacy and authority of the priestly class, which is central to the religious and social structure of Israel.
**Historical Context:**
- **Exodus and Sinai:** The Israelites have recently escaped from slavery in Egypt and are encamped at Mount Sinai, where they received the Law, including the Ten Commandments.
- **Organization of the Camp:** Before resuming their journey, the Israelites need to be organized according to God's instructions, which includes establishing the roles and responsibilities of the Levites, particularly the priestly line of Aaron, Moses' brother.
- **Levitical Duties:** The Levites, and specifically Aaron's descendants, are set apart for priestly duties, a role that includes mediating between God and the people, caring for the tabernacle, and performing sacrifices.
In summary, Numbers 3:1 transitions from the general census of the Israelite community to a focus on the priestly line, emphasizing the significance of lineage and divine order in the formation of Israel's religious leadership during a pivotal period of their history.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)