Numbers 4:44

Even those that were numbered of them after their families, were three thousand and two hundred.

Even those that were numbered {H6485} of them after their families {H4940}, were three {H7969} thousand {H505} and two hundred {H3967}.

yielded 3,200, registered by their families.

The men registered by their clans numbered 3,200.

even those that were numbered of them by their families, were three thousand and two hundred.

Commentary

Numbers 4:44 provides a concise summary of the census count for one of the three main Levitical clans, the Merarites, indicating the number of men within their families who were designated for service in the Tabernacle.

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in Numbers Chapter 4, which outlines the specific duties and census of the Levites, who were uniquely set apart for the service of the Tabernacle during Israel's wilderness wanderings. The chapter meticulously records the numbers of men between 30 and 50 years old from the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, who were considered fit for active duty. Specifically, verse 44 concludes the count for the Merarites. Their significant responsibility involved transporting the heavy, structural components of the Tabernacle, such as its boards, bars, pillars, and sockets, as detailed in Numbers 4:31-32. This precise numbering ensured that every vital task for the Tabernacle's movement was accounted for and assigned.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous census and assignment of specific roles to each Levitical family underscore God's desire for order and precision in His service. Every person and task had its designated place in the operation of the Tabernacle.
  • Responsibility and Service: The verse highlights the dedication of the Merarites to their arduous but essential service. Their role in bearing the Tabernacle's heavy framework was critical to its mobility and the continuation of Israel's worship.
  • Accountability: The detailed numbering demonstrates the importance of knowing who is available and prepared for service, ensuring that all necessary duties for God's dwelling place were covered.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew word for "numbered" in this context is paqad (Χ€Χ§Χ“). While it means to count, it carries a deeper implication of being appointed, enrolled, or designated for a specific duty or visitation. Thus, the 3,200 Merarites were not just a tally; they were specifically identified and prepared for their sacred and physically demanding responsibilities in the Tabernacle's transport.

Practical Application

  • Value in Every Role: Just as the Merarites' physically demanding work was crucial, this verse reminds us that every task within God's kingdom holds value, whether it is prominent or seemingly behind-the-scenes. God sees and values all faithful service.
  • Preparedness for Service: The ancient census encourages us to be ready and available for God's call in our lives, recognizing that our unique gifts and abilities are meant to be used for His purposes and the building of His kingdom.
  • Order in God's Work: The precise organization of the Levites illustrates that God is a God of order, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). This principle applies to our personal lives and collective ministries, emphasizing the importance of planning and coordination for effective spiritual work.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13 (2 votes)

    There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 (2 votes)

    And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:10 (2 votes)

    Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

  • Deuteronomy 33:25 (2 votes)

    Thy shoes [shall be] iron and brass; and as thy days, [so shall] thy strength [be].

  • Numbers 3:34 (2 votes)

    And those that were numbered of them, according to the number of all the males, from a month old and upward, [were] six thousand and two hundred.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:8 (2 votes)

    For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

  • 1 Corinthians 12:12 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also [is] Christ.