Numbers 1:47

¶ But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among them.

But the Levites {H3881} after the tribe {H4294} of their fathers {H1} were not numbered {H6485} among {H8432} them.

But those who were L'vi'im, according to the clan of their fathers, were not counted in this census;

The Levites, however, were not numbered along with them by the tribe of their fathers.

But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among them.

Commentary

Numbers 1:47 KJV highlights a crucial exception in the census of Israel, stating, "But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among them." This verse sets the stage for understanding the unique and sacred role of the tribe of Levi within the nation of Israel.

Context

Chapter 1 of the Book of Numbers details God's command to Moses to conduct a census of all Israelite males aged twenty years and upward, who were able to go forth to war. This numbering was primarily for military organization and the arrangement of the camp as they journeyed through the wilderness. However, the Levites were specifically excluded from this general military enrollment. This divine directive underscores their distinct purpose and separation from the other tribes, as their service was not military but spiritual.

Key Themes

  • Divine Separation and Holy Service: The primary reason for the Levites' exclusion was their divine appointment for sacred service. Unlike the other tribes who were prepared for warfare and settled in specific land allotments, the Levites were consecrated to the Lord for duties related to the Tabernacle.
  • Distinct Roles and Responsibilities: God ordained different functions for different groups within His people. The Levites were responsible for the care, transport, and service of the Tabernacle and its holy vessels, ensuring the holiness of God's presence among Israel. This role is further detailed in Numbers 1:49-53, where God explicitly commands Moses concerning their duties, and in Numbers 3:6-9, which describes them as being "given to Aaron and to his sons" for temple service.
  • God's Order and Provision: This exclusion was not a demotion but an elevation to a specialized, vital role. Their exclusion from military service and land inheritance meant they were dependent on God's provision through the tithes and offerings of the other tribes, emphasizing their complete devotion to spiritual duties.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "numbered" (paqad) can mean to visit, muster, or appoint. In this context, it highlights the act of official enrollment, from which the Levites were specifically exempted by divine decree. The phrase "after the tribe of their fathers" emphasizes their hereditary distinction, signifying that their unique calling was passed down through their lineage from Levi, Jacob's son.

Practical Application

Numbers 1:47 reminds us that God assigns distinct roles and callings within His community. Not everyone is called to the same task, but every God-given role is essential for the flourishing of the whole. This verse encourages us to recognize and value the diverse gifts and services within the body of Christ, understanding that each part contributes uniquely to the overall mission. Just as the Levites had a specific spiritual ministry, believers today are called to serve God in various capacities, all contributing to the building up of His kingdom and the demonstration of His divine order.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 2:33 (5 votes)

    But the Levites were not numbered among the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Numbers 3:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ These also [are] the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day [that] the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.

  • Numbers 4:49 (4 votes)

    According to the commandment of the LORD they were numbered by the hand of Moses, every one according to his service, and according to his burden: thus were they numbered of him, as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ The sons of Levi; Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.

  • 1 Chronicles 6:81 (3 votes)

    And Heshbon with her suburbs, and Jazer with her suburbs.

  • Numbers 26:57 (3 votes)

    ¶ And these [are] they that were numbered of the Levites after their families: of Gershon, the family of the Gershonites: of Kohath, the family of the Kohathites: of Merari, the family of the Merarites.

  • Numbers 26:62 (3 votes)

    And those that were numbered of them were twenty and three thousand, all males from a month old and upward: for they were not numbered among the children of Israel, because there was no inheritance given them among the children of Israel.