Numbers 4:37

These [were] they that were numbered of the families of the Kohathites, all that might do service in the tabernacle of the congregation, which Moses and Aaron did number according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

These were they that were numbered {H6485} of the families {H4940} of the Kohathites {H6956}, all that might do service {H5647} in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}, which Moses {H4872} and Aaron {H175} did number {H6485} according to the commandment {H6310} of the LORD {H3068} by the hand {H3027} of Moses {H4872}.

These are the ones counted from the K'hat families of all those serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moshe and Aharon enumerated, in keeping with the order given by ADONAI through Moshe.

These were counted from the Kohathite clans, everyone who could serve at the Tent of Meeting. Moses and Aaron numbered them according to the command of the LORD through Moses.

These are they that were numbered of the families of the Kohathites, all that did serve in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of Jehovah by Moses.

Commentary

Context of Numbers 4:37

Numbers 4:37 concludes the specific census and enumeration for the families of the Kohathites, a prominent clan within the tribe of Levi. The book of Numbers, particularly chapters 3 and 4, meticulously details the organization and duties of the Levites concerning the Tabernacle. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites were set apart for sacred service to God, and they were not included in the general military census of Israel. Instead, they were counted for their specific roles in dismantling, transporting, and reassembling the Tabernacle of the congregation during Israel's wilderness wanderings.

The Kohathites, as highlighted in earlier verses like Numbers 4:4-15, were entrusted with the most sacred task: carrying the holy furnishings of the Tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, and the Altars. This verse confirms that the specific men numbered (between 30 and 50 years old, as per Numbers 4:3) were indeed those authorized and prepared for this vital service, all done under the direct supervision of Moses and Aaron.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Meticulousness: The verse emphasizes that the numbering was done "according to the commandment of the LORD." This highlights God's precise and orderly nature, demonstrating that His work is never haphazard but always purposeful and structured. Every detail of the Tabernacle service, down to the specific individuals involved, was divinely ordained.
  • Accountability in Service: The act of numbering implies a clear understanding of who was responsible for what. Each Kohathite counted was specifically designated for "service in the tabernacle of the congregation," underscoring individual and collective accountability for their sacred duties.
  • Obedience to Divine Authority: The repeated phrase "by the hand of Moses" signifies that Moses and Aaron were merely instruments in carrying out God's will. Their census was not based on human discretion but on strict adherence to God's instructions, setting a precedent for obedience to God's commands.
  • Preparation for Ministry: The census for service in the Tabernacle (for those aged 30 to 50) underscores the importance of maturity and readiness for spiritual duties. It was not a task for the unprepared but for those deemed capable and fit for the weighty responsibility.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "service" used here is ΚΏΔƒbōḏÒ (Χ’Φ²Χ‘ΦΉΧ“ΦΈΧ”), which broadly means "work," "labor," or "ministry." In the context of the Tabernacle, it specifically refers to the sacred duties performed by the Levites. This term emphasizes that their role was not passive but involved active, dedicated, and often strenuous work in the worship of God. The phrasing "all that might do service" indicates those who were qualified and capable of performing these specific, physically demanding, and spiritually significant tasks.

Practical Application

Numbers 4:37, while detailing ancient Israelite practices, offers timeless principles for believers today:

  • Value of Order in Worship: God is a God of order. Just as He meticulously organized the Tabernacle service, He desires order and intentionality in our lives and corporate worship. This includes respecting established authority and following sound biblical principles in ministry (see 1 Corinthians 14:40).
  • Every Role Matters: The detailed numbering of the Kohathites reminds us that every person called to service by God has a specific, valuable role. Whether it's carrying the holiest articles or performing more mundane tasks, each contribution is vital to the functioning of God's people, much like the various members of the body of Christ.
  • Service Requires Obedience: Our service to God must always be "according to the commandment of the LORD." True ministry flows from obedience to God's Word and His leading, not from personal ambition or human wisdom alone.
  • Readiness for Ministry: The specific age requirements for Tabernacle service highlight the importance of spiritual maturity, preparation, and dedication for those undertaking significant roles in God's kingdom. It encourages a thoughtful approach to ministry, ensuring that those serving are equipped and ready for the task.
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Cross-References

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