Numbers 4:6

KJV

And shall put thereon the covering of badgers' skins, and shall spread over [it] a cloth wholly of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

And shall put {H5414} thereon the covering {H3681} of badgers {H8476}' skins {H5785}, and shall spread {H6566} over {H4605} it a cloth {H899} wholly {H3632} of blue {H8504}, and shall put {H7760} in the staves {H905} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

On that they are to place a covering of fine leather, and on top of that spread an all-blue cloth. Then they are to insert the carrying-poles.

Berean Standard Bible

They are to place over this a covering of fine leather, spread a solid blue cloth over it, and insert its poles.

American Standard Version

and shall put thereon a covering of sealskin, and shall spread over it a cloth all of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 4:6 describes the final layers of covering meticulously placed upon the Ark of the Covenant by the Kohathites before its transport through the wilderness. This verse highlights the profound holiness of God's presence, symbolized by the Ark, and the detailed divine instructions required for its handling. The use of durable badgers' skins and a vibrant blue cloth underscores both the practical need for protection during travel and the symbolic representation of God's heavenly majesty and the sacredness of His covenant with Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers chapter 4 provides highly specific instructions concerning the duties of the Levite clans—the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites—in the dismantling, transport, and reassembly of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. The preceding verses (Numbers 4:1-5) detail the Kohathites' primary responsibility for the most holy objects, including the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, and the Altars. Numbers 4:6 specifically focuses on the Ark, the preeminent object, outlining the final two layers of covering applied after the veil of the Tabernacle had been placed over it (Numbers 4:5). This meticulous layering underscores the Ark's supreme sanctity and the extreme danger associated with unauthorized viewing or contact, a warning explicitly stated later in [Numbers 4:20](/numbers/4-20 "Numbers 4:20 - The Penalty for Looking at Holy Things"). The precise order and materials for each covering were not arbitrary but divinely ordained, emphasizing the absolute reverence required when approaching God's dwelling place.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The instructions in Numbers 4:6 are set against the backdrop of Israel's wilderness wanderings, 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. The Ark of the Covenant, containing the tablets of the Law, represented the very throne of God and the locus of His covenant relationship with Israel. During travel, it was imperative that the Ark, along with other sacred items, be protected from the elements and from defilement, while also being prepared for efficient transport. The "badgers' skins" (often identified as dugong or porpoise hides, or a durable leather) provided a robust, weather-resistant outer layer, essential for safeguarding the Ark in the harsh desert environment. The "cloth wholly of blue" signified divinity, heaven, and purity, colors frequently used in the Tabernacle's construction and priestly garments, as seen in [Exodus 26](/exodus/26 "Exodus 26 - The Tabernacle Curtains and Framework") and [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"). The mention of the staves, which were never to be removed from the Ark (as commanded in [Exodus 25:15](/exodus/25-15 "Exodus 25:15 - The Staves of the Ark")), highlights the Ark's constant readiness for movement, symbolizing God's dynamic and portable presence, always journeying with His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Badgers' skins (Hebrew, _tachash'_):** This term refers to the outermost covering. While the King James Version translates it as "badger," the precise identification of the animal is debated among scholars. Other proposed identifications include dugongs (sea cows), porpoises, or a type of durable, finely processed leather. Regardless of the exact animal, the primary characteristic conveyed by *tachash* skins in the Tabernacle context is their durability, water-resistance, and protective quality. They formed a rugged, practical outer layer designed to shield the sacred furnishings from the harsh elements of the wilderness journey, signifying God's provision for the physical protection of His holy presence.
* **Blue (Hebrew, _techelet'_):** This refers to a specific, highly prized dye, likely derived from a mollusk, producing a deep, rich blue color. In ancient Israelite culture and particularly within the Tabernacle and priestly vestments, *techelet* was profoundly symbolic. It was associated with the heavens, divinity, purity, and royalty. Placing a "cloth wholly of blue" directly over the Ark, beneath the *tachash* skins, visually communicated the Ark's heavenly origin, its connection to God's divine throne, and the sacred, pure nature of the covenant it contained. It served as a vibrant reminder of God's transcendent majesty.
* **Staves (Hebrew, _baddim'_):** These were long poles, typically made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, designed to be inserted through rings on the sides of the Ark (and other Tabernacle furnishings) for carrying. The crucial detail, established in [Exodus 25:15](/exodus/25-15 "Exodus 25:15 - The Staves Never Removed"), is that these staves were never to be removed from the Ark. This command ensured that the Ark was always ready for immediate transport, symbolizing God's continuous, mobile presence with His people. In Numbers 4:6, "shall put in the staves thereof" likely refers to ensuring they are properly secured and prepared for the Kohathites to lift and carry, not their initial insertion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And shall put thereon the covering of badgers' skins":** This clause specifies the outermost layer of covering for the Ark. Following the initial covering with the veil (Numbers 4:5), this durable, weather-resistant material provided essential physical protection from the elements during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It speaks to God's practical provision for the preservation of His sacred symbols.
* **"and shall spread over [it] a cloth wholly of blue":** This describes the layer immediately beneath the badgers' skins. The blue cloth, rich in symbolic meaning, conveyed the Ark's divine origin, its connection to the heavens, and the sacred purity of God's presence. It served as a visual testament to the Ark's holy nature, even when covered, emphasizing that its holiness was inherent, not dependent on being seen.
* **"and shall put in the staves thereof":** This final instruction ensures that the Ark is fully prepared for transport. Since the staves were commanded never to be removed from the Ark (Exodus 25:15), this phrase likely means to ensure they are properly positioned and secured for the Kohathites to lift and carry. It underscores the Ark's design for mobility, symbolizing God's dynamic and ever-present guidance with His people throughout their journey.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 4:6, though a seemingly simple instruction, is rich in literary devices that amplify its theological significance. **Symbolism** is paramount, with each element of the covering carrying deep meaning. The "badgers' skins" symbolize protection and durability, representing God's providential care for His holy dwelling. The "cloth wholly of blue" symbolizes divinity, the heavens, and purity, pointing to the transcendent nature of God and the Ark's sacred connection to His throne. The "staves" symbolize God's portable presence, His willingness to journey with His people, and the constant readiness of His divine guidance. The meticulous detail in the instructions themselves employs **Repetition** of divine command (across Numbers 4 and Exodus 25), reinforcing the absolute necessity of obedience and reverence in handling sacred things. There is also an element of **Metonymy**, where the Ark itself stands for God's presence, making the instructions for its covering implicitly instructions for how to approach and honor God Himself. The unseen holiness, protected by layers, also subtly employs **Mystery**, hinting at the unapproachable glory of God that must be veiled for human safety.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 4:6 profoundly illustrates the themes of divine holiness, meticulous order, and God's protective presence. The layers of covering over the Ark underscore the absolute sanctity of God, emphasizing His transcendence and the necessity of a mediator and specific protocol for sinful humanity to approach Him. This verse teaches that God is a God of order, whose commands are precise and whose expectations for obedience are absolute, particularly in matters pertaining to His worship and presence. The practical protection offered by the badgers' skins, combined with the symbolic purity of the blue cloth, signifies God's comprehensive care—both physical and spiritual—for His covenant symbols and, by extension, for His people. The constant readiness of the Ark for transport through its staves highlights God's immanent presence, His commitment to journey with His people, and His active guidance throughout their wilderness experience.

* [Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle"): The glory of the Lord filling the Tabernacle underscores the unapproachable holiness that necessitated such coverings.
* [1 Samuel 6:19](/1_samuel/6-19 "1 Samuel 6:19 - The Men of Beth Shemesh Struck Down"): This passage tragically illustrates the fatal consequences of failing to observe the divine protocols for handling the Ark, reinforcing the extreme reverence required.
* [Hebrews 9:3-5](/hebrews/9-3 "Hebrews 9:3-5 - The Holy of Holies and its Contents"): Describes the contents of the Holy of Holies, including the Ark, and its significance as a shadow of greater spiritual realities.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 4:6, though detailing ancient rituals, offers profound spiritual lessons for believers today. The meticulous care prescribed for the Ark of the Covenant reminds us of the profound reverence due to God and His Word. Just as the Ark symbolized God's presence, so too does the Holy Spirit indwell believers, making our bodies temples of the living God. This calls us to live lives of purity, holiness, and intentionality, honoring God in every aspect, recognizing His sacred presence within and among us. The divine order in the Tabernacle's handling challenges us to approach our service to God with diligence, faithfulness, and a commitment to His revealed will, rather than our own preferences. Furthermore, the Ark's constant readiness for movement with its staves assures us that God's presence is not static but dynamic, ever-journeying with us through life's wildernesses, providing guidance, protection, and companionship. We are called to trust in His abiding presence and to live in a way that reflects the glory of the One who walks with us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed care for the Ark in Numbers 4:6 inform your understanding of God's holiness and the reverence due to Him in your own life and worship?**
* **In what areas of your life or service to God might you need to cultivate greater diligence, order, and faithfulness, mirroring the meticulous instructions given for the Tabernacle?**
* **How does the symbolism of God's portable presence, represented by the Ark and its staves, encourage you in times of transition or uncertainty?**
* **Considering the protective layers over the Ark, what "coverings" or spiritual disciplines does God provide for your protection and preservation in your spiritual journey?**

### FAQ

**Why were there so many layers of covering for the Ark?**

Answer: The multiple layers of covering for the Ark of the Covenant, as detailed in Numbers 4:5-6, served both practical and theological purposes. Practically, the outermost layer of "badgers' skins" provided durable, weather-resistant protection against the harsh elements of the wilderness during transport. Theologically, the layers underscored the Ark's immense holiness and the unapproachable glory of God it represented. The innermost veil (Numbers 4:5) and the blue cloth (Numbers 4:6) symbolized the divine, heavenly, and pure nature of God's presence, shielding it from human sight. This meticulous veiling protected both the Ark from defilement and the people from God's overwhelming holiness, as unauthorized viewing or contact could result in death, as seen in [Numbers 4:20](/numbers/4-20 "Numbers 4:20 - The Penalty for Looking at Holy Things"). It emphasized the sacred distance between a holy God and sinful humanity, bridged only by divine command and priestly mediation.

**What was the significance of the "cloth wholly of blue"?**

Answer: The "cloth wholly of blue" (Hebrew: *techelet*) held profound symbolic significance in ancient Israel. Blue, particularly this specific dye, was associated with the heavens, divinity, and purity. It was used extensively in the Tabernacle's curtains, the high priest's garments, and the fringes on Israelite garments (as commanded in [Numbers 15:38](/numbers/15-38 "Numbers 15:38 - The Blue Fringe on Garments")). Placing a blue cloth directly over the Ark, beneath the protective outer layer, visually communicated the Ark's heavenly origin and its connection to God's divine throne. It served as a constant reminder of the transcendent, pure, and holy nature of the God who dwelt among His people, even when His presence was veiled from direct sight.

**Were the staves of the Ark ever removed?**

Answer: No, the staves of the Ark were explicitly commanded never to be removed. [Exodus 25:15](/exodus/25-15 "Exodus 25:15 - The Staves of the Ark Never Removed") states, "The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it." This perpetual placement ensured that the Ark was always ready for transport, symbolizing God's continuous and mobile presence with His people throughout their wilderness journey. It underscored that God was not confined to a single location but was actively leading and accompanying Israel wherever they went. The instruction in Numbers 4:6 to "put in the staves thereof" likely refers to ensuring they were properly seated and secured for the Kohathites to lift and carry, rather than their initial insertion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 4:6, with its detailed instructions for covering and transporting the Ark of the Covenant, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Ark, as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, foreshadowed Christ, who is the true embodiment of God's presence on earth. Just as the Ark was covered to protect its sanctity and shield humanity from God's overwhelming holiness, so too did Christ, though fully God, take on human flesh, veiling His divine glory so that humanity could approach Him. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") declares that "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us," with "dwelt" (Greek: *eskēnōsen*) literally meaning "tabernacled," signifying that Jesus is the ultimate Tabernacle where God truly resides among His people. The protective layers over the Ark, safeguarding God's covenant, point to Christ as the one who perfectly upholds and fulfills the Law, providing ultimate access to God without consuming judgment. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, making direct access possible through His sacrifice, as explained in [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access Through Christ's Blood"). Furthermore, the staves that ensured the Ark's constant readiness for movement symbolize Christ's enduring and portable presence through the Holy Spirit. He promised, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission and Christ's Presence")), signifying that God's presence is no longer confined to a physical object or temple but dwells within believers, guiding and accompanying them through every journey of life. Christ is the ultimate reality to which the Ark and its coverings pointed, providing perfect access, protection, and an abiding presence for all who believe.

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 25:13

And thou shalt make staves [of] shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.

Exodus 25:15

The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.

Numbers 4:7

And upon the table of shewbread they shall spread a cloth of blue, and put thereon the dishes, and the spoons, and the bowls, and covers to cover withal: and the continual bread shall be thereon:

Numbers 4:8

And they shall spread upon them a cloth of scarlet, and cover the same with a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put in the staves thereof.

Exodus 39:41

The cloths of service to do service in the holy [place], and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and his sons' garments, to minister in the priest's office.

Exodus 35:19

The cloths of service, to do service in the holy [place], the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office.

1 Kings 8:7

For the cherubims spread forth [their] two wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.