Numbers 4:39
From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, every one that entereth into the service, for the work in the tabernacle of the congregation,
From thirty {H7970} years {H8141} old {H1121} and upward {H4605} even unto fifty {H2572} years {H8141} old {H1121}, every one that entereth {H935} into the service {H6635}, for the work {H5656} in the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150},
all those between thirty and fifty years old who were part of the corps serving in the tent of meeting,
everyone from thirty to fifty years old who came to serve in the work at the Tent of Meeting.
from thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, every one that entered upon the service, for work in the tent of meeting,
Cross-References
No cross-references found.
Commentary
Numbers 4:39 specifies the age range for Levites entering active service in the Tabernacle of the congregation. This verse concludes the detailed instructions for the Merarite family, echoing the requirements previously laid out for the Kohathites and Gershonites, establishing a uniform standard for all who performed the strenuous duties of the Tabernacle.
Context of Numbers 4:39
Chapter 4 of the Book of Numbers meticulously outlines the duties of the three Levitical clansโthe Kohathites, Gershonites, and Meraritesโwho were responsible for the care, dismantling, and transport of the Tabernacle during Israel's wilderness wanderings. Each family had specific assignments, from carrying the most holy articles (Kohathites) to the coverings and frames (Gershonites and Merarites). This verse, specifically addressing the Merarites, reiterates the general age requirement of "from thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old" for active service. This period was considered the prime of life, when men possessed both physical strength for the demanding tasks and the maturity and wisdom needed for sacred duties. For similar age requirements for other Levitical families, see Numbers 4:3 (Kohathites) and Numbers 4:23 (Gershonites).
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "service" in this verse is 'abodah (ืขึฒืึนืึธื), which encompasses both "work" and "worship" or "service." This dual meaning underscores that the Levites' physical labor in the Tabernacle was itself an act of spiritual devotion and worship. The "tabernacle of the congregation" (ohel mo'ed, ืึนืึถื ืืึนืขึตื) literally means "tent of meeting," emphasizing its central role as the place where God met with His people.
Practical Application
While the specific age requirements for Tabernacle service are part of the Old Covenant law, the principles behind them remain relevant for believers today. God still values maturity, readiness, and dedication in those who serve Him. Every believer, as part of the body of Christ, has a role to play in the spiritual "tabernacle" of the church. This verse encourages us to consider:
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