TRV
Translation
American Standard Version
And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites.
Young's Literal Translation
And Moses taketh the waggons and the oxen, and giveth them unto the Levites.
In the KJVVerse 3,857 of 31,102
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Commentary on Numbers 7 verses 1–9
1 ¶ And it came to pass on the day that Moses had fully set up the tabernacle, and had anointed it, and sanctified it, and all the instruments thereof, both the altar and all the vessels thereof, and had anointed them, and sanctified them;
2 That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:
3 And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.
4 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5 Take it of them, that they may be to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.
6 And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites.
7 Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, according to their service:
8 And four wagons and eight oxen he gave unto the sons of Merari, according unto their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.
9 But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders.
Here is the offering of the princes to the service of the tabernacle. Observe,
I. When it was; not till it was fully set up, Num 7:1. When all things were done both about the tabernacle itself, and the camp of Israel which surrounded it, according to the directions given, then they began their presents, probably about the eighth day of the second month. Note, Necessary observances must always take place of free-will offerings: first those, and then these.
II. Who it was that offered: The princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, Num 7:2. Note, Those that are above others in power and dignity ought to go before others, and endeavour to go beyond them, in every thing that is good. The more any are advanced the more is expected from them, on account of the greater opportunity they have of serving God and their generation. What are wealth and authority good for, but as they enable a man to do so much the more good in the world?
III. What was offered: six wagons, with each of them a yoke of oxen to draw them, Num 7:3. Doubtless these wagons were agreeable to the rest of the furniture of the tabernacle and its appurtenances, the best of the kind, like the carriages which great princes use when they go in procession. Some think that God, by Moses, intimated to them what they should bring, or their own consideration perhaps suggested to them to make this present. Though God's wisdom had ordained all the essentials of the tabernacle, yet it seems these accidental conveniences were left to be provided by their own discretion, which was to set in order that which was wanting (Tit 1:5), and these wagons were not refused, though no pattern of them was shown to Moses in the mount. Note, It must not be expected that the divine institution of ordinances should descend to all those circumstances which are determinable, and are fit to be left alterable, by human prudence, that wisdom which is profitable to direct. Observe, No sooner is the tabernacle fully set up than this provision is made for the removal of it. Note, Even when we are but just settled in the world, and think we are beginning to take root, we must be preparing for changes and removes, especially for the great change. While we are here in this world, every thing must be accommodated to a militant and movable state. When the tabernacle was framing, the princes were very generous in their offerings, for then they brought precious stones, and stones to be set (Exo 35:27), yet now they bring more presents. Note, Those that have done good should study to abound therein yet more and more, and not be weary of well-doing.
IV. How the offering was disposed of, and what use was made of it: the wagons and oxen were given to the Levites, to be used in carrying the tabernacle, both for their ease (for God would not have any of his servants overburdened with work), and for the more safe and right conveyance of the several parts of the tabernacle, which would be best kept together, and sheltered from the weather, in wagons. 1. The Gershonites, that had the light carriage, the curtains and hangings, had but two wagons, and two yoke of oxen (Num 7:7); when they had loaded these, they must carry the rest, if any remained, upon their shoulders. 2. The Merarites, that had the heavy carriage, and that which was most unwieldy, the boards, pillars, sockets, etc., had four wagons, and four yoke of oxen allotted them (Num 7:8); and yet, if they had not more wagons of their own, they would be obliged to carry a great deal upon their backs too, for the silver sockets alone weighed 100 talents, which was above four tons, and that was enough to load four wagons that were drawn but by one yoke of oxen a-piece. But each socket being a talent weight, which is about a man's burden (as appears, Kg2 5:23) probably they carried those on their backs, and put the boards and pillars into the wagons. Observe here, How God wisely and graciously ordered the most strength to those that had the most work. Each had wagons according to their service. Whatever burden God in his providence lays upon us, he will by his sufficient grace proportion the strength to it, Co1 10:13. 3. The Kohathites, that had the most sacred carriage, had no wagons at all, because they were to carry their charge upon their shoulders (Num 7:9), with a particular care and veneration. When in David's time they carried the ark in a cart, God made them to know to their terror, by the death of Uzza, that they did not seek him in the due order. See Ch1 15:13.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–9. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Numbers 7:6 chronicles Moses' immediate and obedient act of distributing the wagons and oxen, which had been presented by the tribal leaders as dedication offerings, to the Levites. This pivotal moment highlights God's meticulous provision and precise organization for the immense logistical demands of transporting the Tabernacle, thereby ensuring the orderly progression of Israel's wilderness journey and the reverent maintenance of His sacred dwelling place among His people.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of Numbers 7, a chapter meticulously detailing the dedication offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the newly consecrated Tabernacle. The preceding verses, specifically Numbers 7:1-5, establish the context by recording the presentation of six covered wagons and twelve oxen to Moses. These were explicitly stated as gifts from the tribal leaders, intended for the vital service of the Tabernacle. Crucially, Numbers 7:5 records the Lord's direct instruction to Moses to distribute these resources to the Levites according to their specific transport duties. Moses' immediate action in verse 6, therefore, represents a seamless and obedient fulfillment of this divine command, bridging the completion and erection of the Tabernacle (as detailed in Exodus 40:33) with the practicalities of its nomadic existence. This careful allocation also foreshadows the specific responsibilities outlined for the Levite clans in Numbers 4.
Historical & Cultural Context: The setting for Numbers 7:6 is the arduous wilderness journey of the Israelites, a nomadic existence that necessitated the frequent disassembly, transport, and reassembly of the Tabernacle. As the central dwelling place of God's presence, the Tabernacle was not merely a static structure but a mobile sanctuary. In a pre-industrial society, wagons and oxen were indispensable and highly valuable assets for moving heavy and bulky items. The Tabernacle, with its intricate components—curtains, frames, bars, pillars, and sockets—represented a significant logistical challenge, far too cumbersome to be carried entirely by human strength. The provision of these specific resources was not a human invention but a divinely inspired response to a practical and essential need, demonstrating God's foresight in equipping His chosen servants for their vital duties. This meticulous planning ensured that the sacred space could be moved efficiently, reverently, and in an orderly fashion, maintaining the divine order and presence at the very heart of the Israelite camp. The act of giving these resources specifically to the Levites underscores their unique and essential role in the maintenance and mobility of the Tabernacle, distinguishing their responsibilities from those of the priests or other tribes.
Key Themes: Numbers 7:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch as a whole. Foremost is the theme of Divine Provision, illustrating God's meticulous care not only in commanding the Tabernacle's construction but also in providing the practical means for its mobility and maintenance. This act underscores that God equips those He calls to service, providing both spiritual and material resources. Closely related is the theme of Order and Organization, as the precise distribution of wagons and oxen reflects God's desire for an orderly and structured community, particularly in matters pertaining to worship and the divine presence. The verse also highlights Obedience and Stewardship, as Moses faithfully carries out God's command to distribute the offerings, demonstrating his role as a diligent steward of divine resources. Finally, it reinforces the theme of Specific Roles and Responsibilities within the community, emphasizing the distinct, yet interdependent, duties of the Levites in facilitating the worship life of Israel, as further detailed in Numbers 4.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 7:6, though brief, employs several significant literary devices. The verse exhibits Narrative Simplicity and Directness, presenting a straightforward account of Moses' actions without elaborate embellishment or dramatic flair. This unadorned style emphasizes the immediate obedience to divine instruction and the practical, functional nature of the event. The items themselves, "wagons" and "oxen," function as Metonymy for the extensive logistical support and the arduous physical labor required for the Tabernacle's transport; they represent the essential means by which a complex, vital, and sacred task is accomplished. Furthermore, the meticulous provision and precise distribution of these specific tools can be seen as a subtle yet profound illustration of Divine Foresight. This device highlights God's detailed planning and comprehensive care for every aspect of His people's journey and worship, extending even to the seemingly mundane yet absolutely essential details of transportation, ensuring His presence could always accompany them.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 7:6 powerfully illustrates the profound theological themes of divine provision, meticulous organization, and the principle of faithful stewardship within God's economy. God, having commanded the construction of the Tabernacle and established its central role in Israel's life, also meticulously provides the practical means for its mobility and maintenance. This act underscores a fundamental truth: God not only calls His people to service but also equips them with the necessary resources—whether material, spiritual, or relational—to fulfill their assigned tasks. Moses' immediate and precise obedience in distributing these resources to the Levites highlights the paramount importance of faithful stewardship and the orderly delegation of responsibilities within the community of faith. This ensures that every part contributes harmoniously to the greater purpose of God's glory and the flourishing of His people.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 7:6, though seemingly a simple logistical detail from Israel's wilderness journey, offers profound and enduring principles for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that our God is a God of order, who meticulously plans and provides for His work, equipping His servants for every task, no matter how grand or how seemingly mundane. Just as the Levites were given specific tools—wagons and oxen—for their unique and physically demanding ministry of transporting the Tabernacle, so too does God equip every believer with distinct gifts, talents, and resources to fulfill their specific role within the body of Christ. This verse calls us to a deep recognition and faithful utilization of the provisions God has entrusted to us, understanding that our abilities and resources are not for our own glory or personal gain, but for the advancement of His Kingdom and the building up of His church. It encourages us to embrace our specific callings with diligence and joy, knowing that every act of service, when done in obedience and according to divine order, contributes significantly to the flourishing of God's people and the manifestation of His presence in the world. We are invited to trust in His provision, participate in His order, and faithfully steward what He has given us for His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were wagons and oxen needed if the Tabernacle was meant to be carried by the Levites?
Answer: While the Kohathite clan of the Levites was indeed specifically tasked with carrying the most sacred articles of the Tabernacle (such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Altars) on their shoulders, other Levite clans—namely the Gershonites and Merarites—were responsible for the heavier and bulkier components. The Gershonites carried the curtains, coverings, and hangings, while the Merarites were responsible for the frames, bars, pillars, and sockets—items that were far too large and heavy to be carried by hand. Numbers 4:24-33 meticulously details these specific duties. The wagons and oxen provided in Numbers 7:6 were therefore essential logistical support for these clans, enabling the efficient and reverent transport of the Tabernacle's structural and textile elements during Israel's nomadic journey.
What was the theological significance of the Levites receiving these specific resources?
Answer: The Levites were divinely appointed to serve the Tabernacle, and their duties were meticulously defined by God. The allocation of wagons and oxen directly to them underscored their unique and indispensable role in the physical maintenance and mobility of God's dwelling place among His people. Theologically, this provision highlighted God's precise understanding of their practical needs and His unwavering commitment to equipping His servants for their specific tasks. It demonstrated that God's call to ministry is always accompanied by His provision. This ensured that the Tabernacle, the very center of Israel's worship and identity, could be moved in an orderly and respectful manner, maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the divine presence throughout their wilderness travels. This also served to distinguish their practical, physical service from the priestly duties of Aaron's sons, yet affirmed the equal importance of both in God's ordered worship.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous provision of wagons and oxen for the Tabernacle's transport in Numbers 7:6, ensuring God's presence could move with His people, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the true and ultimate "dwelling place" of God among humanity, the very Word made flesh who "tabernacled among us" (John 1:14). Just as God provided the material means for the Old Testament Tabernacle to be mobile and accessible, so in Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a physical structure or a specific geographical location but is universally accessible through Him. Furthermore, the equipping of the Levites for their sacred service foreshadows how Christ, through His finished work on the cross, His resurrection, and His ascension, has fully equipped His New Testament people, the Church, for her global mission. By sending the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17), Christ empowers believers with spiritual gifts and resources to carry out His work in the world, making His presence known and His message proclaimed to every nation. We, as living stones (1 Peter 2:5) built into a spiritual house, are now the mobile temple of God, equipped by Christ not with physical wagons and oxen, but with the spiritual provisions of grace, truth, and power to bear witness to Him and extend His Kingdom.