Numbers 4:26

KJV

And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court, which [is] by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the hangings {H7050} of the court {H2691}, and the hanging {H4539} for the door {H6607} of the gate {H8179} of the court {H2691}, which is by the tabernacle {H4908} and by the altar {H4196} round about {H5439}, and their cords {H4340}, and all the instruments {H3627} of their service {H5656}, and all that is made {H6213} for them: so shall they serve {H5647}.

Complete Jewish Bible

the tapestries for the courtyard, and the screen for the entrance to the courtyard by the tabernacle and around the altar, along with the ropes and all the utensils they need for their service; and they are to do the work connected with these things.

Berean Standard Bible

the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

American Standard Version

and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatsoever shall be done with them: therein shall they serve.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 4:26 meticulously details the specific duties assigned to the Merarite clan of the Levites concerning the transportation of the Tabernacle's outer components during Israel's wilderness journey. This verse highlights their essential responsibility for the heavier, structural elements of the sacred courtyard, including its hangings, gate, cords, and all associated implements, underscoring God's precise blueprint for the maintenance and mobility of His holy dwelling place among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers chapter 4 provides a highly structured and detailed account of the responsibilities of the three Levitical clans—the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites—for the dismantling, transport, and reassembly of the Tabernacle. Each clan was assigned distinct, non-overlapping tasks to ensure the holy structure was moved with utmost precision and reverence. While the Kohathites were responsible for the most sacred inner articles, such as the Ark of the Covenant and the Table of Showbread, as outlined in [Numbers 4:1-15](/numbers/4-1-15 "Numbers 4:1-15 - Duties of the Kohathites"), and the Gershonites handled the coverings, curtains, and screens of the tent itself, described in [Numbers 4:21-28](/numbers/4-21-28 "Numbers 4:21-28 - Duties of the Gershonites"), the Merarites, as detailed in [Numbers 4:29-33](/numbers/4-29-33 "Numbers 4:29-33 - Duties of the Merarites"), were charged with the heavier, more cumbersome structural components. Numbers 4:26 specifically enumerates the items under Merarite care, focusing on the perimeter elements of the court, thereby completing the comprehensive logistical plan for the Tabernacle's mobility.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The instructions in Numbers 4:26 are set against the backdrop of Israel's forty-year wilderness wandering, a period of nomadic existence where the Tabernacle served as the central point of worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence among His people. In a transient environment, the ability to dismantle, transport, and reassemble this elaborate sacred structure was paramount. The meticulous detail provided for each component, from the most holy inner vessels to the outer court hangings, underscored the profound sanctity of God's dwelling. This divine organization ensured that the Tabernacle, though portable, was always treated with the highest reverence, reflecting the holiness of the God who commanded its construction and presence (see [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Tabernacle")). The assignment of specific duties to the Levites, a tribe set apart for sacred service, also highlights the cultural importance of ritual purity and ordered worship in ancient Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hangings (Hebrew, _qela'im'_):** Refers to the woven linen curtains that formed the outer walls of the Tabernacle courtyard. These were substantial in size and weight, requiring significant effort to transport and erect, emphasizing the Merarites' role in handling the heavy, foundational elements of the sacred space.
* **Cords (Hebrew, _meytarim'_):** These were the ropes used to secure the various components of the Tabernacle, particularly the hangings and tent pegs, ensuring stability against wind and movement. Their inclusion underscores the meticulous attention to every detail, no matter how seemingly minor, for the proper and secure functioning of God's dwelling.
* **Instruments of their service (Hebrew, _k'ley avodatam'_):** This broad term encompasses all the tools, pins, sockets, and fittings necessary for the proper assembly, dismantling, and maintenance of the Merarites' assigned Tabernacle components. It signifies that not only the major parts but also every small, practical item required for their specific duties was divinely ordained and essential for the sacred work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the hangings of the court":** This refers to the large, finely woven linen curtains that demarcated the outer perimeter of the Tabernacle courtyard, creating a sacred enclosure around the Tent of Meeting and the altar.
* **"and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court":** This specifies the particular curtain that served as the entrance to the courtyard, distinguishing it from the continuous perimeter hangings and emphasizing its unique function as a point of access.
* **"which [is] by the tabernacle and by the altar round about":** This phrase geographically locates the court hangings, clarifying that they enclosed the entire sacred complex, surrounding both the central Tent of Meeting (the Tabernacle proper) and the brazen altar in the courtyard.
* **"and their cords":** These are the ropes and fasteners essential for securing the hangings and ensuring the stability of the courtyard structure, highlighting the practical necessities for its erection and dismantling.
* **"and all the instruments of their service":** This is a comprehensive phrase covering all the tools, pegs, sockets, and other ancillary equipment specifically used by the Merarites for the handling, transport, and assembly of their assigned components.
* **"and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.":** This concluding clause emphasizes the exhaustive nature of the Merarites' responsibility, encompassing every item associated with their designated duties, and reiterates that these specific tasks constitute their prescribed service to the Lord.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs **Enumeration** and **Detailed Listing** to convey the meticulousness of God's instructions and the comprehensive nature of the Merarites' responsibilities. By itemizing each component—hangings, gate hanging, cords, instruments—the text underscores the divine order and the sanctity attributed to every part of the Tabernacle, no matter how seemingly mundane. This detailed enumeration also serves as a form of **Emphasis**, highlighting that nothing was left to human discretion or oversight when it came to God's dwelling place. Furthermore, the very act of listing these physical components of the outer court can be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where the parts represent the larger whole of the Tabernacle's exterior, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane, and the structured access to God's presence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 4:26 powerfully illustrates God's nature as a God of order, precision, and holiness, where every detail, even the seemingly less "glamorous" components of the Tabernacle, held profound significance. The specific assignment to the Merarites for handling the heavy, structural elements of the court underscores the principle of diverse yet equally vital roles within God's service. Just as the Tabernacle required every piece—from the Ark to the court hangings—to be meticulously cared for and properly positioned for God's presence to dwell among His people, so too does God's kingdom today rely on the faithful execution of varied tasks by all His servants. This passage reinforces the idea that true worship involves diligent obedience and a recognition that all service, regardless of its visibility, contributes to the glory of God and the functioning of His divine plan.

* [1 Corinthians 12:12](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12 - Many Members, One Body")
* [1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - Order in Worship")
* [Exodus 25:8-9](/exodus/25-8-9 "Exodus 25:8-9 - God's Command for the Tabernacle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 4:26 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that in God's kingdom, every task, no matter how seemingly small or laborious, is imbued with divine purpose and significance. The Merarites' responsibility for the heavy, foundational elements of the Tabernacle's court teaches us the dignity of "behind-the-scenes" work and the importance of faithfulness in roles that may not receive public acclaim. Just as the cords and hangings were crucial for the Tabernacle's integrity and proper assembly, so too are the foundational, often unseen, acts of service essential for the health and flourishing of the church and the advancement of God's mission. We are called to embody the same diligence and reverence in our stewardship of God-given responsibilities, recognizing that our service is not merely functional but an act of worship reflecting the character of our orderly and holy God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "heavy" or "behind-the-scenes" tasks in your church or community might God be calling you to serve in with diligence and reverence?**
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's instructions for the Tabernacle challenge your approach to seemingly mundane responsibilities in your life or service?**
* **In what ways can you cultivate a deeper sense of the sanctity of every task, recognizing that all service done for the Lord contributes to His glory?**
* **How does understanding the diverse roles of the Levitical clans inform your view of the "body of Christ" and the importance of every member's contribution?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary role of the Merarite clan regarding the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The Merarite clan was primarily responsible for the heaviest and most structural components of the Tabernacle and its surrounding court. This included the frames, bars, pillars, bases, and all associated fittings, as well as the court hangings, their pillars, bases, and cords, as detailed in [Numbers 4:29-33](/numbers/4-29-33 "Numbers 4:29-33 - Merarite Duties"). Unlike the Kohathites, who handled the most sacred inner articles, or the Gershonites, who managed the coverings and curtains, the Merarites' duties involved the bulkier, foundational elements that provided the physical structure and enclosure of God's dwelling place.

**Why did God provide such meticulous instructions for seemingly minor items like cords and instruments?**

Answer: God's meticulous instructions, even for seemingly minor items like cords and instruments, underscore several crucial theological principles. Firstly, they emphasize the **holiness and sanctity** of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place; every part, no matter how small, was sacred and required specific, reverent handling ([Exodus 29:37](/exodus/29-37 "Exodus 29:37 - Sanctification of the Altar")). Secondly, it demonstrates God's nature as a God of **order and precision** ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Order")), leaving no room for human improvisation or negligence in His worship. Every component was essential for the proper functioning and stability of the Tabernacle. Finally, it highlights the concept of **stewardship**—that every detail entrusted to humanity in divine service is important and must be managed faithfully, reflecting the perfect character of the God being served.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous care for the Tabernacle's outer court, including its hangings, gate, cords, and instruments, as assigned to the Merarites in Numbers 4:26, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle itself was a profound type and shadow of Christ, representing God's dwelling among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). While the physical structure of the Tabernacle, including its outer court, served to separate and provide a structured access to God's presence, Christ is the true and living way, the ultimate "gate" and "curtain" through whom we now have direct access to the Father ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Gate") and [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through the Veil")). The "cords" and "instruments" of the Merarites' service, which ensured the Tabernacle's integrity and mobility, foreshadow the foundational and enabling work of Christ, whose perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection provide the complete "structure" and "means" for our salvation and reconciliation with God. He is the one who perfectly fulfills every detail of God's redemptive plan, establishing the new spiritual temple—His body, the Church—where God now dwells by His Spirit ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")). Thus, the Merarites' diligent service points to the flawless and all-encompassing work of Christ, through whom God's presence is not merely portable but eternally established within His redeemed 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

Exodus 27:9

¶ And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward [there shall be] hangings for the court [of] fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

Exodus 35:18

The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,