Numbers 4:25

KJV

And they shall bear the curtains of the tabernacle, and the tabernacle of the congregation, his covering, and the covering of the badgers' skins that [is] above upon it, and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall bear {H5375} the curtains {H3407} of the tabernacle {H4908}, and the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, his covering {H4372}, and the covering {H4372} of the badgers {H8476}' skins that is above {H4605} upon it, and the hanging {H4539} for the door {H6607} of the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150},

Complete Jewish Bible

They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, the tent of meeting, its covering, the fine leather covering above it, the screen for the entrance to the tent of meeting,

Berean Standard Bible

They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting with the covering of fine leather over it, the curtains for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting,

American Standard Version

they shall bear the curtains of the tabernacle, and the tent of meeting, its covering, and the covering of sealskin that is above upon it, and the screen for the door of the tent of meeting,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 4:25 meticulously details the specific responsibilities of the Gershonite clan within the Levitical priesthood for transporting the Tabernacle during Israel's wilderness wanderings. This verse underscores the divine precision and sacred order required in handling the portable sanctuary's fabric components, including its inner curtains, main coverings, the durable outermost layer, and the entrance hanging, all of which symbolized God's holy presence among His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 4 is a continuation of God's detailed instructions for the organization and duties of the Levites, who were consecrated to serve the Tabernacle. Following the census of the Levites in [Numbers 3](/numbers/3 "Numbers 3 - Census and Duties of the Levites"), chapter 4 specifically outlines the precise tasks assigned to each of the three main Levitical families: the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, based on their age and specific roles. While the Kohathites were responsible for the most holy items of the Tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant and the altar, which were not to be touched directly (as seen in [Numbers 4:4-15](/numbers/4-4 "Numbers 4:4-15 - Duties of the Kohathites")), the Gershonites, as described in this verse and earlier in [Numbers 3:21-26](/numbers/3-21 "Numbers 3:21-26 - Specific Duties of the Gershonites"), were tasked with carrying the lighter, yet equally vital, fabric-based components. This division of labor ensured that the portable sanctuary, a central symbol of God's presence, was handled with utmost reverence, efficiency, and according to divine blueprint during Israel's nomadic journey.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for Numbers 4:25 is the wilderness journey of the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle, or "tent of meeting," was the focal point of their camp, symbolizing God's immanent presence among His people. In a nomadic society, the ability to transport their central place of worship was crucial. Unlike permanent temples of surrounding pagan cultures, the Tabernacle was designed for mobility, reflecting God's dynamic relationship with Israel as He led them. The meticulous instructions for its dismantling, transport, and reassembly, including the specific assignments to the Levitical clans, highlight God's demand for order and holiness in their worship and daily life. This level of detail also served to protect the people from inadvertently violating the sanctity of God's dwelling, which could have dire consequences, as illustrated by later events like the unauthorized touching of the Ark in [2 Samuel 6:6-7](/2_samuel/6-6 "2 Samuel 6:6-7 - Uzzah and the Ark"). The Tabernacle was not merely a structure; it was the tangible representation of the covenant relationship, requiring precise adherence to divine commands for its handling.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bear (Hebrew, _nasa'_):** This verb (נָשָׂא) carries the primary meaning of "to lift, carry, bear a burden." In the context of the Tabernacle service, it emphasizes the physical act of transport, but also implicitly conveys the idea of taking on a responsibility or a charge. The Gershonites were not merely moving objects; they were bearing the sacred components of God's dwelling, a task imbued with spiritual significance and requiring careful stewardship.
* **Curtains (Hebrew, _yeri'ot'_):** The term (יְרִיעוֹת) refers to the large fabric panels that formed the inner walls and ceiling of the Tabernacle. These were often intricately woven with fine linen and colorful embroidery (as detailed in [Exodus 26:1-6](/exodus/26-1 "Exodus 26:1-6 - The Tabernacle Curtains")), depicting cherubim, signifying the heavenly realm. Their delicate nature contrasted with the outer coverings, underscoring the need for careful handling by the Gershonites.
* **Badgers' Skins (Hebrew, _tachash'_):** The Hebrew word (תַּחַשׁ) is a subject of significant scholarly debate regarding its precise identification. While the KJV translates it as "badgers' skins," other proposals include dugong, dolphin, porpoise, or, more broadly, a type of fine, durable, and often dyed leather or hide. Regardless of the exact animal, the consensus is that it refers to a tough, resilient, and likely waterproof material that formed the outermost protective layer of the Tabernacle (see [Exodus 26:14](/exodus/26-14 "Exodus 26:14 - The Covering of Tachash Skins")), shielding the more delicate inner components from the harsh desert elements like sun, sand, and rain. This detail highlights God's practical provision for the preservation of His holy dwelling.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall bear the curtains of the tabernacle,"**: This clause assigns the Gershonites the responsibility for carrying the innermost and most decorative fabric layers of the Tabernacle. These were the ten curtains of fine twined linen, blue, purple, and scarlet material, with cherubim skillfully worked into them, forming the inner sanctuary. Their beauty and sacred imagery required careful handling during transport.
* **"and the tabernacle of the congregation, his covering,"**: This refers to the primary coverings of the Tabernacle structure itself. Specifically, it includes the goat hair curtains that formed the next layer over the linen curtains, providing insulation and protection, and possibly the "tent" or "covering" that encompassed the entire structure, distinguishing it as the "tent of meeting" where God would commune with His people.
* **"and the covering of the badgers' skins that [is] above upon it,"**: This specifies the outermost and most durable layer of the Tabernacle's coverings. As discussed in the key word analysis, this tough, weatherproof hide served as the ultimate protection against the severe wilderness environment, safeguarding the sacred contents from external damage. Its placement "above upon it" emphasizes its role as the final, protective shield.
* **"and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,"**: This refers to the elaborate curtain that served as the entrance to the Holy Place, the first chamber of the Tabernacle. This "hanging" was distinct from the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place and was likely made of fine linen with blue, purple, and scarlet embroidery (as described in [Exodus 26:36](/exodus/26-36 "Exodus 26:36 - The Screen for the Door of the Tent")). Its inclusion underscores that even the entryway, which granted access to God's presence, was sacred and required meticulous care in its handling.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 4:25 employs several literary devices to convey its message of divine order and sacred responsibility. The most prominent is **Enumeration** (or **Listing**), as the verse systematically itemizes each specific component the Gershonites were to transport: "the curtains," "the tabernacle of the congregation, his covering," "the covering of the badgers' skins," and "the hanging for the door." This detailed listing emphasizes the meticulousness of God's instructions and the precise nature of the Levites' duties, leaving no room for ambiguity. Furthermore, **Repetition** of phrases like "the tabernacle of the congregation" reinforces the central importance of this sacred dwelling as the locus of God's presence among His people. The items themselves function as **Symbols**; each piece, from the decorative inner curtains to the rugged outer skins, collectively symbolizes the holiness of God and the comprehensive care required for His dwelling. The contrast between the delicate inner "curtains" and the tough "badgers' skins" also subtly highlights the dual nature of God's dwelling: beautiful and holy within, yet robustly protected for the harsh realities of the wilderness journey.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 4:25, in its detailed assignment of duties to the Gershonites, powerfully illustrates several core theological truths. It underscores God's nature as a God of order and precision, demonstrating that every aspect of His worship and presence among His people is carefully orchestrated and holds profound significance. The meticulous care required for even the "outer" and "less holy" components of the Tabernacle highlights the pervasive holiness of God and the reverence due to anything associated with Him. This verse also emphasizes the principle of assigned responsibility and stewardship within the community of faith, where each member has a vital, divinely appointed role that contributes to the overall function and mission. The Tabernacle's portability, facilitated by these specific transport duties, further symbolizes God's dynamic and faithful presence, accompanying His people through all their journeys and trials.

* [Exodus 26:1-14](/exodus/26-1 "Detailed Construction of the Tabernacle Coverings")
* [Numbers 3:21-26](/numbers/3-21 "Gershonite Duties and Numbering")
* [Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34 "The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The ancient instructions for the Gershonites in Numbers 4:25, though specific to the Old Testament Tabernacle, offer profound and timeless lessons for believers today. This verse reminds us that in God's economy, there are no "insignificant" tasks. Just as carrying the Tabernacle's coverings was a vital part of maintaining God's dwelling among His people, so too are all contributions within the contemporary body of Christ. Whether visible or behind the scenes, every act of service, every gift exercised, and every responsibility undertaken with diligence and reverence contributes to the health, mission, and flourishing of the church. It calls us to cultivate a mindset of meticulous stewardship and profound respect for God's presence, not just in grand acts of worship, but in the seemingly mundane details of our service. Our "carrying" today involves upholding the spiritual integrity of the church, protecting its witness, and ensuring that the gospel message is faithfully preserved and proclaimed as we journey through this world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of Numbers 4:25 challenge our modern tendency to prioritize "important" roles over "minor" ones within the church?**
* **In what practical ways can we demonstrate the same level of reverence and careful stewardship for the "components" of God's dwelling place today, the church, as the Gershonites did for the Tabernacle?**
* **What "coverings" or protective layers do we, as the body of Christ, need to "bear" and maintain to safeguard our spiritual integrity and witness in the world?**

### FAQ
**What were the primary duties of the Gershonites, as distinct from other Levitical clans?**

Answer: The Gershonites were one of the three main Levitical clans responsible for the Tabernacle service. While the Kohathites handled the most sacred furnishings like the Ark of the Covenant and the altars (as detailed in [Numbers 4:4-15](/numbers/4-4 "Numbers 4:4-15 - Duties of the Kohathites")), and the Merarites were responsible for the heavy structural components like the frames, bars, and pillars (see [Numbers 4:31-32](/numbers/4-31 "Numbers 4:31-32 - Duties of the Merarites")), the Gershonites were specifically tasked with the lighter, fabric-based elements. As Numbers 4:25 outlines, their duties included bearing the Tabernacle's inner curtains, its primary coverings, the durable outer "badgers' skins" covering, and the hanging for the door of the Tabernacle of the congregation. Their role was crucial for the careful dismantling, transport, and reassembly of the Tabernacle's textile components during Israel's wilderness journeys.

**What is the significance of the "badgers' skins" covering for the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The "badgers' skins" (Hebrew: _tachash_) formed the outermost layer of the Tabernacle's coverings. While the exact identification of the animal or material remains debated among scholars, it is widely understood to be a durable, resilient, and likely waterproof hide. Its significance lies in its protective function: it shielded the more delicate and sacred inner coverings and furnishings of the Tabernacle from the harsh elements of the wilderness, such as sun, sandstorms, and rain. This practical detail highlights God's foresight and provision for the preservation of His holy dwelling, ensuring that the place where His glory resided was adequately protected from external damage, allowing His presence to accompany His people safely.

**Why did God require such detailed instructions for carrying the Tabernacle?**

Answer: God's meticulous instructions for carrying the Tabernacle, as seen in Numbers 4:25 and throughout the chapter, underscore several profound theological principles. Firstly, they emphasize God's absolute holiness and the reverence due to His presence. The Tabernacle was not merely a tent; it was the tangible dwelling place of the Almighty, and its components were sacred. Secondly, the detailed assignments demonstrated God's demand for order and precision in worship and service. This order prevented chaos and ensured that every aspect of His service was performed according to His divine will. Thirdly, it highlighted the principle of assigned responsibility within the community; each Levitical clan had a specific, vital role, emphasizing that every member's contribution was essential for the functioning of God's dwelling among His people. Finally, these instructions ensured the Tabernacle's safe and efficient transport, enabling God's presence to accompany Israel throughout their nomadic journey, reinforcing His faithfulness and immanence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 4:25, with its focus on the meticulous care and transport of the Tabernacle's coverings, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle itself was a profound type and shadow of Christ, representing God's dwelling among humanity. Just as the Tabernacle's coverings shielded its sacred contents, so too does Christ serve as our ultimate "covering" and protection, providing spiritual refuge and access to God. The Old Testament Tabernacle, a physical structure, pointed forward to the new covenant reality where God no longer dwells in tents made with hands, but in and through Jesus. As the Word made flesh, Jesus "tabernacled" among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), becoming the true meeting place between God and humanity. Furthermore, Christ's perfect sacrifice on the cross fulfilled the Tabernacle's sacrificial system, making direct access to God possible not through rituals and physical structures, but through faith in Him ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ, Our High Priest and Sacrifice")). Today, the church, composed of believers, is called the "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body, a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), and we are built together into a spiritual dwelling place for God ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built Together into a Holy Temple")). Thus, the meticulous care once given to the Tabernacle's coverings now finds its spiritual parallel in the church's call to preserve the purity of the gospel, protect the unity of the Spirit, and faithfully bear witness to Christ's presence in the world, ensuring that God's dwelling place continues to move with His people.

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.

Cross-References

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.

Exodus 26:14

And thou shalt make a covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above [of] badgers' skins.

Numbers 7:5

Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.

Numbers 7:7

Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, according to their service: