Numbers 31:47

KJV

Even of the children of Israel's half, Moses took one portion of fifty, [both] of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.

KJV (with Strong's)

Even of the children {H1121} of Israel's {H3478} half {H4276}, Moses {H4872} took {H3947} one {H259} portion {H270} of fifty {H2572}, both of man {H120} and of beast {H929}, and gave {H5414} them unto the Levites {H3881}, which kept {H8104} the charge {H4931} of the tabernacle {H4908} of the LORD {H3068}; as the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}.

Complete Jewish Bible

from the people of Isra'el's half, Moshe took one-fiftieth of the persons and animals and gave them to the L'vi'im taking care of the tabernacle of ADONAI, as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

Berean Standard Bible

From the Israelites’ half, Moses took one out of every fifty persons and animals and gave them to the Levites who kept charge of the tabernacle of the LORD, as the LORD had commanded him.

American Standard Version

even of the children of Israel’s half, Moses took one drawn out of every fifty, both of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites, that kept the charge of the tabernacle of Jehovah; as Jehovah commanded Moses.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 31:47 concludes the meticulous account of the division of spoils from the Midianite war, specifically detailing the portion allocated to the Levites from the congregation's share. This verse underscores God's precise and equitable instructions for sustaining those consecrated to His service, highlighting His divine order and comprehensive provision for the spiritual well-being of the Israelite community through the support of the Tabernacle's caretakers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 31:47 is the culmination of a lengthy and detailed exposition in [Numbers 31](/numbers/31 "Numbers 31 - The War Against Midian and Division of Spoils"), which describes Israel's divinely commanded punitive expedition against the Midianites. This war was a direct consequence of Midian's role in seducing Israel into idolatry and immorality at Peor, as recounted in [Numbers 25:1-3](/numbers/25-1 "Numbers 25:1-3 - The Sin at Peor"). Following the decisive victory and the capture of immense plunder—including people, livestock, and goods—the chapter meticulously outlines the division of these spoils. The preceding verses (Numbers 31:25-40) establish the initial division into two halves: one for the 12,000 warriors who engaged in battle and another for the rest of the Israelite congregation. From the warriors' half, a smaller tribute (1 in 500) was designated for the priests (Numbers 31:28-29). Numbers 31:47 specifically addresses the more substantial portion (1 in 50) taken from the congregation's half, earmarked for the Levites, thereby completing the intricate system of distribution.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The war against Midian was not merely a territorial conflict but a holy war, commanded by Yahweh as a judgment for Midian's role in the Baal Peor apostasy. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the spoils of war were typically distributed among the victorious army and sometimes to the king or deity. However, Israel's system, as detailed in [Numbers 31](/numbers/31 "Numbers 31 - The War Against Midian and Division of Spoils"), was unique in its divine prescription for supporting the priestly and Levitical classes. The Levites, unlike the other tribes, received no tribal land inheritance in Canaan (cf. [Deuteronomy 18:1-2](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1-2 - The Levites' Inheritance")). Their sustenance was entirely dependent on the tithes, offerings, and designated portions from the other tribes. This arrangement ensured that those dedicated to the sacred duties of the Tabernacle—which included guarding, maintaining, transporting, and ministering within God's dwelling place—could do so without needing to engage in agriculture or other secular livelihoods.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. It highlights **Divine Command and Obedience**, as the repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" underscores the absolute authority behind these meticulous instructions and Moses' faithful adherence to God's detailed will, even in seemingly mundane matters of resource distribution. It exemplifies **Divine Provision for the Levites**, demonstrating God's established and systematic way of sustaining those set apart for His service. This principle of supporting spiritual leadership is foundational, recurring throughout scripture (e.g., [Deuteronomy 18:1-2](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1-2 - The Levites' Inheritance") and [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - Supporting those who preach the Gospel")). Finally, the detailed division of spoils, down to specific ratios for different groups, showcases **God's Order and Justice**. It reflects a divine blueprint for a well-ordered society where every segment, especially those dedicated to sacred service, is adequately provided for, ensuring the continuity and sanctity of worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Levites (Hebrew, לְוִיִּם, _levi'im'_):** This term refers to the descendants of Levi, one of Jacob's twelve sons, who were consecrated by God for special service to the Tabernacle and, later, the Temple. Unlike the priests (Aaronic lineage, a subset of Levites), the general Levites performed duties such as guarding the sanctuary, carrying its components during journeys, assisting the priests, and maintaining the sacred space. Their unique role meant they had no tribal land inheritance, making their sustenance from the community's contributions, as seen here, absolutely critical for their dedicated service.
* **Charge (Hebrew, מִשְׁמֶרֶת, _mishmeret'_):** This noun, derived from the verb "to guard" or "to keep," signifies a sacred duty, a watch, or an assigned responsibility. In the context of the Tabernacle, it encompasses the Levites' comprehensive duties: guarding the sanctuary from defilement or unauthorized access, maintaining its cleanliness and order, and ensuring the proper execution of its functions. It implies a stewardship that is both practical and deeply spiritual, demanding vigilance, faithfulness, and reverence.
* **Tabernacle (Hebrew, מִשְׁכָּן, _mishkan'_):** Meaning "dwelling place," the Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary where God's presence resided among His people during their wilderness wanderings. It was the focal point of Israelite worship, sacrifice, and communion with God. The Levites' "charge" over the Tabernacle underscored its immense sacredness and the necessity of its proper care and reverence. The very existence and function of the Tabernacle were central to Israel's identity as God's covenant people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Even of the children of Israel's half,"**: This clause specifies the source of the Levites' portion. After the initial division of spoils between the warriors and the congregation, this refers to the half allocated to the general Israelite community, distinct from the warriors' share from which the priests received their tribute. It emphasizes that the entire community bore responsibility for supporting the Levites.
* **"Moses took one portion of fifty, [both] of man and of beast,"**: This details the exact ratio and nature of the contribution. From every fifty units of captured people and livestock in the congregation's half, one unit was designated for the Levites. This numerical precision highlights the meticulousness of God's command and the equitable, systematic nature of His provision. The inclusion of "man" (likely referring to female captives, as male children were killed, cf. Numbers 31:17-18) and "beast" indicates the comprehensive nature of the spoils being shared.
* **"and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD;"**: This identifies the recipients of the portion and the reason for their allocation. The Levites received this support specifically because of their unique and essential role in "keeping the charge" – guarding, maintaining, and ministering within – the Tabernacle. This underscores the principle that those dedicated to sacred service are to be sustained by the community they serve, enabling them to fulfill their divinely appointed duties without distraction.
* **"as the LORD commanded Moses."**: This concluding phrase serves as a powerful theological affirmation, emphasizing the divine origin and authority behind the entire system of spoil distribution. It is not a human invention but a direct divine mandate, highlighting Moses' unwavering obedience and God's sovereign involvement in even the logistical details of His people's lives and worship. This phrase reinforces the theme of divine faithfulness and the importance of adhering to God's revealed will.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Emphasis** is achieved through the repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses," which appears multiple times throughout [Numbers 31](/numbers/31 "Numbers 31 - The War Against Midian and Division of Spoils"), underscoring the divine authority and meticulousness behind every instruction. This repetition serves to validate Moses' actions and highlight God's sovereign involvement in the details of Israel's life and worship. The precise numerical ratio of "one portion of fifty" demonstrates **Precision** and **Divine Order**, reflecting God's concern for justice and systematic provision. The phrase "[both] of man and of beast" uses **Merism**, a literary device where two contrasting or complementary parts represent a whole, indicating that all categories of living spoils were included in this division. Finally, the description of the Levites as those "which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD" uses **Metonymy**, where "charge" stands for the entire scope of their sacred duties and responsibilities, emphasizing their dedicated service as the justification for their sustenance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 31:47 powerfully illustrates God's meticulous care for His covenant people and His appointed servants. It establishes a foundational principle of divine provision for those dedicated to spiritual service, ensuring that the Levites, who had no land inheritance, were sustained by the community's resources. This system not only provided for their physical needs but also affirmed their sacred calling and the centrality of the Tabernacle's worship to Israelite life. The verse underscores that God's commands are comprehensive, extending even to the practicalities of resource distribution, and that obedience to these commands is paramount for the flourishing of the community and the proper functioning of divine worship. It highlights the reciprocal relationship between the community and its spiritual leaders: the community provides material support, enabling the leaders to focus on their sacred duties, which in turn benefits the entire community spiritually.

* [Deuteronomy 18:1-2](/deuteronomy/18-1 "Deuteronomy 18:1-2 - The Levites' Inheritance and Support")
* [Nehemiah 10:37-38](/nehemiah/10-37 "Nehemiah 10:37-38 - Provision for Priests and Levites")
* [1 Corinthians 9:13-14](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13-14 - Support for Gospel Ministers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 31:47, though rooted in ancient Israel's wilderness journey, offers profound and enduring principles for believers today. It calls us to reflect on the importance of supporting those who minister God's Word and serve in spiritual capacities within our communities. Just as the Levites were set apart for the sacred work of the Tabernacle, so too are pastors, missionaries, and other spiritual leaders dedicated to building up the body of Christ. Our financial and practical support enables them to devote themselves fully to their calling, fostering healthy spiritual growth and outreach. Beyond financial giving, this verse reminds us of the broader principle of stewardship—recognizing that all our resources are ultimately from God and are to be used for His glory, including supporting His work. Furthermore, Moses' unwavering obedience to God's detailed commands, even in logistical matters, challenges us to consider the scope of our own obedience. Are we diligent in following God's will not only in grand spiritual gestures but also in the mundane, practical aspects of our daily lives? This verse encourages a holistic discipleship where every aspect of life is brought under the authority of God's Word.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle of supporting spiritual leadership, as seen with the Levites, apply to the church today?**
* **In what ways can I practically contribute to the "charge" of God's work in my community or globally?**
* **What does Moses' meticulous obedience to God's commands, even in the division of spoils, teach me about my own obedience in seemingly small matters?**
* **How does understanding God's detailed provision for the Levites deepen my trust in His care for all His people?**

### FAQ
**Why were the Levites given a portion of the spoils, and why was it different from the priests' portion?**

Answer: The Levites were given a portion of the spoils as part of God's divinely ordained system for their sustenance. Unlike the other tribes of Israel, the Levites received no tribal land inheritance in Canaan because they were set apart for the exclusive service of the Tabernacle and, later, the Temple. Their duties included guarding the sanctuary, transporting its components, assisting the priests, and teaching the Law. Therefore, their livelihood was to come from the contributions of the other tribes, ensuring they could dedicate themselves fully to their sacred calling without needing to engage in agriculture or other secular professions. The portion for the Levites (1 in 50 from the congregation's half, as seen in [Numbers 31:47](/numbers/31-47 "Numbers 31:47 - Levites' Share of Spoils")) was larger than the priests' portion (1 in 500 from the warriors' half, as detailed in [Numbers 31:28-29](/numbers/31-28 "Numbers 31:28-29 - Priests' Share of Spoils")) because the Levites constituted a much larger group and had broader responsibilities for the daily care and maintenance of the Tabernacle, whereas the priests (descendants of Aaron) performed the specific sacrificial and intercessory functions. This differentiated allocation reflects God's precise and equitable provision for each group according to their specific roles and needs within the divine economy.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 31:47, with its focus on the meticulous provision for the Levites who "kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. Jesus Christ is the true and ultimate [Tabernacle](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word became flesh and dwelt among us"), the dwelling place of God among humanity, in whom the fullness of God was pleased to dwell (cf. [Colossians 1:19](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19 - All the fullness of God dwells in Christ")). He perfectly "kept the charge" of God's will, fulfilling all righteousness and perfectly ministering God's presence and truth. Moreover, as the [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, our Great High Priest") after the order of Melchizedek, Jesus transcends the Levitical priesthood, offering a once-for-all sacrifice that eternally purifies and makes access to God possible (cf. [Hebrews 7:27](/hebrews/7-27 "Hebrews 7:27 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). The Old Testament system of support for the Levites foreshadows the New Covenant principle of supporting those who minister the Gospel, as articulated by Paul in [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - The Lord commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel"). Just as the Levites were sustained to focus on their sacred duties, so too are those who proclaim Christ to be supported, enabling them to devote themselves entirely to the ministry of reconciliation. Ultimately, the meticulous order and divine provision seen in Numbers 31:47 point to God's perfect plan of salvation, culminating in Christ, who is both the perfect servant and the ultimate provision for His people, establishing a spiritual house (the Church) where all believers, as a [royal priesthood](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"), now serve Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.