Numbers 10:17

And the tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari set forward, bearing the tabernacle.

And the tabernacle {H4908} was taken down {H3381}; and the sons {H1121} of Gershon {H1648} and the sons {H1121} of Merari {H4847} set forward {H5265}, bearing {H5375} the tabernacle {H4908}.

Then the tabernacle was taken down; and the descendants of Gershon and the descendants of M'rari set out, carrying the tabernacle.

Then the tabernacle was taken down, and the Gershonites and the Merarites set out, transporting it.

And the tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari, who bare the tabernacle, set forward.

Commentary

Context of Numbers 10:17

Numbers 10:17 marks a significant moment in the wilderness journey of the Israelites. Following detailed instructions for their encampment and marching order, this verse describes a critical phase of their first major departure from Mount Sinai, where they had resided for nearly a year receiving the Law and constructing the Tabernacle. The previous verses in Numbers 10 detail the sounding of the trumpets for assembly and movement, and the departure of the first three tribes (Judah, Issachar, Zebulun). This verse specifically highlights the moment the portable sanctuary, the Tabernacle, was disassembled and prepared for transport, signifying the heart of Israel's camp was now on the move. This movement was part of Israel's larger journey from Mount Sinai, initiated by the lifting of the cloud from over the Tabernacle, signaling God's command to advance.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Obedience: The verse underscores the meticulous divine plan for Israel's journey. Every step, including the dismantling and transport of the sacred Tabernacle, was executed according to specific instructions given by God. This highlights the theme of obedience to God's commands as essential for the community's progress and well-being.
  • The Centrality of God's Presence: The Tabernacle was not merely a tent but the physical representation of God's presence among His people. Its careful disassembly and transport by designated Levites emphasize that God's presence was central to their identity and journey. They did not move without it; it moved with them, signifying God's continual guidance and fellowship.
  • Assigned Responsibilities: The mention of the "sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari" highlights the specific duties assigned to the Levitical families of Gershon and Merari. The Gershonites were responsible for carrying the curtains, coverings, and hangings of the Tabernacle, while the Merarites were responsible for the heavier structural components like boards, bars, pillars, and sockets. This division of labor ensured the efficient and reverent handling of the sacred components.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "the tabernacle was taken down" uses the Hebrew verb parak (Χ€ΦΈΧ¨Φ·Χ§), which means "to break off, to tear off, to pull off." This accurately conveys the action of disassembling the portable sanctuary. The mention of "Gershon" and "Merari" specifically identifies two of the three main divisions of the Levites (the third being Kohath), each with distinct responsibilities concerning the Tabernacle's care and transport, as detailed in Numbers chapter 3 and 4. The Tabernacle itself (Hebrew: mishkan) means "dwelling place," emphasizing its role as the place where God dwelt among His people.

Practical Application

Numbers 10:17 offers timeless lessons for believers today. Just as the Israelites journeyed with a tangible symbol of God's presence, Christians are called to live lives centered on God's spiritual presence, which dwells within us through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This verse reminds us:

  • The Importance of Order in Service: God is a God of order, and our service to Him should reflect careful planning and execution, whether in personal spiritual disciplines or corporate ministry.
  • Carrying God's Presence: As we navigate life's journeys and transitions, we are called to carry the presence of God with us, making Him central to all we do. Our lives should testify to His presence, influencing our actions and interactions.
  • Fulfilling Our Assigned Roles: Like the Gershonites and Merarites, each believer has a unique role and responsibility within the body of Christ. Understanding and faithfully performing these roles contributes to the overall health and progress of God's kingdom.
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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:51

    And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.

  • Numbers 7:6

    And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites.

  • Numbers 7:8

    And four wagons and eight oxen he gave unto the sons of Merari, according unto their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.

  • 2 Peter 1:14

    Knowing that shortly I must put off [this] my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me.

  • Numbers 3:25

    And the charge of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of the congregation [shall be] the tabernacle, and the tent, the covering thereof, and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,

  • Numbers 3:26

    And the hangings of the court, and the curtain for the door of the court, which [is] by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it for all the service thereof.

  • Hebrews 12:28

    Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:
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