Numbers 3:32

And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest [shall be] chief over the chief of the Levites, [and have] the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary.

And Eleazar {H499} the son {H1121} of Aaron {H175} the priest {H3548} shall be chief {H5387} over the chief {H5387} of the Levites {H3881}, and have the oversight {H6486} of them that keep {H8104} the charge {H4931} of the sanctuary {H6944}.

El'azar the son of Aharon the cohen was first among the chiefs of the L'vi'im and supervised those in charge of the Holy Place.

The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest; he oversaw those responsible for the duties of the sanctuary.

And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be prince of the princes of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary.

Commentary

Numbers 3:32 outlines a significant leadership role within the Levitical structure, designating Eleazar, the son of Aaron, as the supreme overseer of those responsible for the care of the Tabernacle.

Context

This verse is situated within the third chapter of Numbers, which meticulously details the census and specific duties assigned to the Levites. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites were set apart for service to the Lord, particularly in relation to the desert Tabernacle. They were given to Aaron and his sons to assist in their priestly duties (Numbers 3:6). The chapter outlines the responsibilities of the three main Levitical clans—the Gershonites, Kohathites, and Merarites—who handled the Tabernacle's components, furnishings, and structure. Eleazar's appointment here places him in a position of authority over all these Levitical chiefs, ensuring proper management of the sacred space and its contents.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Hierarchy: God established a clear and intricate system of leadership and responsibility within ancient Israel. Eleazar's role underscores the importance of a well-defined chain of command, particularly in matters pertaining to divine worship and sacred objects.
  • Leadership and Oversight: Eleazar was not just a leader but specifically had "oversight" (Hebrew: pekudah, implying inspection and superintendence) of those who kept the "charge of the sanctuary." This highlights the critical need for diligent supervision to maintain the sanctity and proper functioning of the Tabernacle service.
  • Sanctity of the Tabernacle: The detailed organization and the appointment of a high-ranking supervisor like Eleazar emphasize the profound holiness and importance of the Tabernacle as the dwelling place of God among His people. Its maintenance was a matter of utmost spiritual significance.
  • Priestly Authority and Succession: As Aaron's son, Eleazar was part of the priestly line, distinct from the general Levites. His position here foreshadows his later role as High Priest, succeeding his father Aaron (Numbers 20:28), and underscores the authority vested in the Aaronic priesthood.

Linguistic Insight

The phrase "chief over the chief of the Levites" employs the Hebrew term nasi (נָשִׂיא), which can mean "prince," "leader," or "chief." The repetition emphasizes Eleazar's preeminent position, indicating he was the highest-ranking official among all the Levitical leaders, subordinate only to Aaron himself. His responsibility for "the charge of the sanctuary" (mishmeret ha-mikdash) refers to the sacred duties and careful protection of the holy Tabernacle and its contents, including its vessels and furniture.

Practical Application

Numbers 3:32 reminds us that God is a God of order, and He values responsible leadership and faithful stewardship. In any spiritual endeavor or community, clear roles, accountability, and diligent oversight are essential for maintaining integrity and effectiveness. This principle extends to how we care for sacred trusts, whether they are physical places of worship, spiritual responsibilities, or the truths of God's Word. Just as Eleazar was tasked with ensuring the proper care of the Tabernacle, believers today are called to be good stewards of the gifts and responsibilities God has entrusted to them, reflecting a commitment to divine order and holiness in their service.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 26:20

    ¶ And of the Levites, Ahijah [was] over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.

  • 1 Chronicles 26:24

    And Shebuel the son of Gershom, the son of Moses, [was] ruler of the treasures.

  • Numbers 4:27

    At the appointment of Aaron and his sons shall be all the service of the sons of the Gershonites, in all their burdens, and in all their service: and ye shall appoint unto them in charge all their burdens.

  • 2 Kings 25:18

    And the captain of the guard took Seraiah the chief priest, and Zephaniah the second priest, and the three keepers of the door:

  • Numbers 4:16

    And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest [pertaineth] the oil for the light, and the sweet incense, and the daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, [and] the oversight of all the tabernacle, and of all that therein [is], in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof.

  • 1 Chronicles 9:14

    ¶ And of the Levites; Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;

  • 1 Chronicles 9:20

    And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, [and] the LORD [was] with him.
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