Numbers 26:58

Translation
King James Version
These are the families of the Levites: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites. And Kohath begat Amram.
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KJV (with Strong's)
These are the families H4940 of the Levites H3881: the family H4940 of the Libnites H3846, the family H4940 of the Hebronites H2276, the family H4940 of the Mahlites H4250, the family H4940 of the Mushites H4188, the family H4940 of the Korathites H7145. And Kohath H6955 begat H3205 Amram H6019.
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Complete Jewish Bible
These are the families of Levi: the family of the Livni, the family of the Hevroni, the family of the Machli, the family of the Mushi and the family of the Korchi. K'hat was the father of 'Amram.
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Berean Standard Bible
These were the families of the Levites: The Libnite clan, the Hebronite clan, the Mahlite clan, the Mushite clan, and the Korahite clan. Now Kohath was the father of Amram,
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American Standard Version
These are the families of Levi: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korahites. And Kohath begat Amram.
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World English Bible Messianic
These are the families of Levi: the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korahites. Kohath became the father of Amram.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
These are the families of Leui, the familie of the Libnites: the familie of the Hebronites: the familie of the Mahlites: the familie of the Mushites: the familie of the Korhites: and Kohath begate Amram.
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Young's Literal Translation
These are families of the Levite: the family of the Libnite, the family of the Hebronite, the family of the Mahlite, the family of the Mushite, the family of the Korathite. And Kohath hath begotten Amram,
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See also
Numbers 16:1Numbers 3:17Numbers 3:21Exodus 6:20
In the KJVVerse 4,548 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Numbers 26:58 provides a meticulous enumeration of the five primary families descended from Levi's son Kohath—the Libnites, Hebronites, Mahlites, Mushites, and Korathites—before specifically tracing the lineage to Amram, the father of Moses and Aaron. Situated within the second census of Israel, this verse underscores God's divine order and the distinct, non-military role of the Levites in Israel's spiritual life, particularly their sacred duties related to the Tabernacle. It also subtly highlights the continuity of God's covenant promises and His preserving grace, even in the face of past failures and rebellion.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within Numbers chapter 26, which records the second comprehensive census of the Israelite tribes, conducted by Moses and Eleazar in the plains of Moab. This enumeration occurs approximately 38 years after the first census (Numbers 1), serving as a crucial re-establishment of the national registry following the demise of the rebellious wilderness generation and the devastating plague at Peor. While the other tribes were counted for military readiness and the allocation of land inheritance, the Levites were enumerated separately (Numbers 26:57-62) due to their unique, non-inheriting status and their exclusive dedication to sacred Tabernacle service. Verse 58 specifically details the families descended from Kohath, one of Levi's three sons, immediately preceding the mention of the lineage of Moses and Aaron, who were themselves prominent Kohathites. This placement emphasizes the foundational importance of the Levitical priesthood and its continuity.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The setting for this census is the plains of Moab, a critical staging ground for the Israelites' imminent entry into the Promised Land, marking the culmination of their forty-year wilderness journey. In ancient Israelite society, genealogies were far more than mere records; they were vital for establishing tribal identity, validating claims to land, and, in the case of the Levites, confirming their specific roles and privileges within the nation's religious framework. The Levites, unlike the other tribes, did not receive a territorial inheritance in Canaan but were supported by tithes and offerings from the other tribes, dwelling in designated Levitical cities (Numbers 35:1-8). Their distinct function as guardians and ministers of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, was central to Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, ensuring the proper administration of sacred rites and the maintenance of ritual purity.
  • Key Themes: Numbers 26:58 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. It powerfully illustrates God's divine order and meticulous organization, demonstrating His precise blueprint for the community's spiritual and practical life, extending even to specific family units. The verse also highlights the distinct and sacred role of the Levites, who were set apart for Tabernacle service, emphasizing their unique covenant responsibilities as outlined in Numbers 3 and Numbers 4. Furthermore, the concluding mention, "And Kohath begat Amram," underscores genealogical continuity and the preservation of God's chosen lineage, linking directly to the pivotal figures of Moses and Aaron, through whom God established the Law and the priesthood, as detailed in Exodus 6:20. The inclusion of the Korathites also subtly introduces the theme of divine grace and remnant preservation despite severe judgment, as seen in the narrative of Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • families (Hebrew, mishpâchâh', H4940): This term refers to a circle of relatives, a clan, or a subdivision of a tribe. In the context of Numbers 26:58, it emphasizes the structured, hierarchical organization of the Levites into distinct kinship groups, each with specific duties and responsibilities within the Tabernacle service. This highlights the importance of lineage and communal identity in ancient Israel.
  • Levites (Hebrew, Lêwîyîy'): A collective term for the descendants of Levi, one of Jacob's twelve sons. This tribe was uniquely consecrated by God for sacred service to the Tabernacle, replacing the firstborn of Israel (Numbers 3:11-13). They had no territorial inheritance but lived in designated cities and were supported by the tithes of the other tribes. Their primary role was to minister to the priests and to be responsible for the care, transport, and setup of the Tabernacle.
  • begat (Hebrew, yâlad', H3205): A primitive root meaning "to bear young" or, causatively, "to beget." In this genealogical context, it signifies the act of fathering a child, thereby establishing a direct lineal connection. The use of this verb underscores the continuity of generations and the meticulous record-keeping of Israelite lineages, which were crucial for establishing identity, inheritance, and, in the case of the Levites, their sacred function.

Verse Breakdown

  • "These [are] the families of the Levites:" This introductory phrase serves as a heading, clearly demarcating the focus of the subsequent enumeration. It distinguishes the Levite census from that of the other tribes, immediately signaling their unique status and purpose within the Israelite community. It underscores that their organization is based on familial units, which dictates their specific roles in sacred service.
  • "the family of the Libnites, the family of the Hebronites, the family of the Mahlites, the family of the Mushites, the family of the Korathites." This clause lists five specific clans or subdivisions within the tribe of Levi. The Libnites and Hebronites were descendants of Gershon and Kohath respectively. The Mahlites and Mushites were descendants of Merari. The Korathites were also descendants of Kohath. This detailed listing showcases the precise, divinely ordained structure of the Levite service, with each family having distinct responsibilities related to the Tabernacle. The inclusion of the "Korathites" is particularly significant, given the rebellion of their progenitor, Korah, highlighting God's preserving grace.
  • "And Kohath begat Amram." This concluding statement narrows the focus to a specific and profoundly significant lineage within the Kohathite family. Amram was the father of Moses and Aaron, the foundational leaders of Israel's exodus from Egypt and the establishment of the Mosaic Law and the Aaronic priesthood. This detail serves as a crucial genealogical link, connecting the Levite census directly to the divinely appointed leadership that shaped Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God.

Literary Devices

Numbers 26:58 primarily employs Genealogy, a foundational literary device in biblical texts. This is not merely a dry list of names but a theological statement establishing identity, legitimizing claims (such as priestly lineage), demonstrating divine faithfulness across generations, and structuring the narrative. The meticulous listing of Levite families underscores the Order and Precision of God's design for Israel's spiritual life, reflecting His sovereign hand in organizing His people. The inclusion of the Korathites, despite their ancestor's notorious rebellion, introduces a subtle element of Paradox or Irony, highlighting God's sovereign grace and the preservation of a remnant even in the face of severe judgment. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of Metonymy, where the "families" represent the entire Levitical service and its divinely ordained continuity, emphasizing the collective function of these lineages.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Numbers 26:58 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign purpose in establishing and maintaining the order of His covenant people. It underscores that every part of the community, even specific family lines, has a divinely ordained place and function within His grand design. The distinct enumeration of the Levites, separate from the military census, reinforces their unique sacred calling and the principle that spiritual service is foundational to the nation's identity and relationship with God. The survival of the Korathites, despite the severe judgment on their progenitor, serves as a powerful testament to God's preserving grace and His ability to work through remnants, demonstrating that His plans are not ultimately thwarted by human sin. This verse thus speaks to divine order, the sanctity of calling, and the enduring nature of God's covenant.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While a seemingly dry genealogical record, Numbers 26:58 offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order and purpose, meticulously arranging His people for specific functions within His Kingdom. Just as the Levites were set apart for sacred service, every believer today is called to a unique ministry, empowered by spiritual gifts for the building up of the body of Christ. This verse challenges us to discern and embrace our individual calling, recognizing that our contribution, however seemingly small, is vital to God's larger plan. Furthermore, the continuity of these family lines, especially the Korathites, speaks to God's enduring faithfulness and grace. It encourages us to trust in His redemptive power, even when faced with past failures or generational struggles, knowing that He can preserve a remnant and continue His work through unexpected means. We are called to live faithfully, passing on a legacy of devotion and service to future generations, confident in God's sustained presence and purpose.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does understanding God's meticulous order in ancient Israel inform your view of His design for your own life and the church today?
  • In what specific ways do you recognize your unique "Levitical" calling or sacred service within your community or the body of Christ?
  • What does the preservation of the Korathites teach you about God's grace and His ability to redeem or work through imperfect lineages or circumstances?

FAQ

Why were the Levites counted separately in the census?

Answer: The Levites were counted separately because they had a distinct and sacred role in Israel that differed from the other tribes. Unlike the other tribes, who were counted for military service and land allocation, the Levites were set apart for service to the Tabernacle (and later the Temple). They were responsible for its care, transport, and the assistance of the priests in their duties. They did not receive a territorial inheritance in the Promised Land but were supported by tithes and lived in designated cities among the other tribes. This distinct enumeration highlights their unique spiritual function within the covenant community, as detailed in Numbers 3.

Who were the Kohathites, and what was their significance?

Answer: The Kohathites were one of the three main branches of the Levite tribe, descended from Kohath, a son of Levi. They held the most sacred responsibilities regarding the Tabernacle. Specifically, they were charged with carrying the holy furnishings of the Tabernacle—such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Altars—when the Israelites moved camp. This was a highly sensitive duty, requiring careful adherence to divine instructions, as outlined in Numbers 4:4-15. Their lineage was also significant because Moses and Aaron, the foundational leaders of Israel, were descendants of Kohath through Amram, as mentioned in Exodus 6:20.

What is the significance of the Korathites being mentioned, given Korah's rebellion?

Answer: The mention of the Korathites is highly significant because it demonstrates God's sovereign grace and the preservation of a remnant, even after severe judgment. Korah, a Kohathite Levite, led a major rebellion against Moses and Aaron's divinely appointed authority, resulting in God's judgment where Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and their immediate households were swallowed by the earth (see Numbers 16). However, Numbers 26:11 explicitly states that "the children of Korah died not." This verse confirms that a branch of Korah's lineage survived and continued to be recognized as a legitimate family within the Levite tribe. Later, descendants of Korah became prominent temple musicians and gatekeepers, serving faithfully (e.g., 1 Chronicles 6:31-38 and various Psalms attributed to the "sons of Korah"). This highlights God's mercy and His ability to continue His purposes through those who remain faithful, even from a lineage marked by rebellion.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Numbers 26:58, with its meticulous listing of Levite families and the lineage leading to Moses and Aaron, points forward to the ultimate High Priest and perfect Mediator, Jesus Christ. The Levites, particularly the Kohathites, were set apart for sacred service, bearing the holy furnishings of the Tabernacle and assisting in the sacrificial system—a system that inherently foreshadowed Christ. Their role as mediators between God and Israel, though imperfect and temporary, finds its complete fulfillment in Jesus, who is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world and our great High Priest who has passed through the heavens. The genealogical continuity, culminating in Amram, father of Moses and Aaron, prefigures the perfect lineage of Christ, through whom God's covenant promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" (2 Corinthians 1:20). Moreover, the inclusion of the Korathites, a lineage marked by rebellion but preserved by grace, powerfully illustrates the expansive mercy of God that culminates in Christ. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus not only redeems individuals but also reconciles entire lineages and brings those who were formerly alienated into the family of God, making them a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to serve Him with a new and living way (Hebrews 10:19-20).

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Commentary on Numbers 26 verses 57–62

Levi was God's tribe, a tribe that was to have no inheritance with the rest in the land of Canaan, and therefore was not numbered with the rest, but by itself; so it had been numbered in the beginning of this book at Mount Sinai, and therefore came not under the sentence passed upon all that were then numbered, that none of them should enter Canaan but Caleb and Joshua; for of the Levites that were not numbered with them, nor were to go forth to war, Eleazar and Ithamar, and perhaps others who were above twenty years old then (as appears, Jos 4:16, 28), entered Canaan; and yet this tribe, now at its second numbering, had increased but 1000, and was still one of the smallest tribes. Mention is made here of the death of Nadab and Abihu for offering strange fire, as before of the sin and punishment of Korah, because these things happened to them for ensamples.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 57–62. Public domain.
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Procopius of GazaAD 528
CATENA ON THE OCTATEUCH, ON NUMBERS 26:55
These words seem to say something about the blessedness of Christ, by the fact that they decree rewards proper to each virtue, and the greatest rewards go to those who are endowed with sincere hearts. For, Scripture says, they will see God. The sort of men he bids to be chosen for holy orders have an appointed description; apart from that they have no portion in the land. They could also say, “In your hands is my lot and my portion, Lord.” So there is no little boy among them; this signifies purity and integrity. The one who counts all of them is Christ, adumbrated in the high priest and lawgiver, who gave no lot to the unfaithful. For Scripture says, “Let them be expunged from the book of the living and not be recorded with the just.”
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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