Read Verse Keyword Strong's
Prev

Numbers 3:3

Next

These [are] the names of the sons of Aaron, the priests which were anointed, whom he consecrated to minister in the priest's office.

These are the names {H8034} of the sons {H1121} of Aaron {H175}, the priests {H3548} which were anointed {H4886}, whom he consecrated {H4390}{H3027} to minister in the priest's office {H3547}.

These were the names of the sons of Aharon the cohen, whom he anointed and ordained as cohanim.

These were Aaron’s sons, the anointed priests, who were ordained to serve as priests.

These are the names of the sons of Aaron, the priests that were anointed, whom he consecrated to minister in the priest’s office.

Commentary

Commentary on Numbers 3:3

Numbers 3:3 introduces the specific individuals within Aaron's lineage who were designated for the sacred priestly office. This verse serves as a crucial bridge, connecting the divine commands given earlier in Exodus and Leviticus regarding the priesthood with the practical organization of the Israelite camp and its worship, as detailed in the book of Numbers.

Context

The book of Numbers primarily chronicles Israel's journey through the wilderness from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab, leading up to their entry into the Promised Land. Chapter 3 specifically focuses on the numbering and duties of the Levites, who were set apart for service to the Tabernacle, distinct from the rest of the tribes. Within the tribe of Levi, Aaron and his sons held the unique and highest office of the priesthood. This verse clarifies which of Aaron's sons were officially recognized and prepared to "minister in the priest's office," laying the groundwork for understanding the priestly hierarchy and responsibilities in ancient Israel. The selection of Aaron and his sons for this role was a direct divine appointment.

Key Themes

  • Divine Appointment and Consecration: The verse emphasizes that these individuals were not self-appointed but were "anointed" and "consecrated" by God through Moses. This highlights the sacredness and divine origin of the priestly office. Their authority came from God, not from human election or merit.
  • Hereditary Priesthood: The priestly line was established through Aaron and his sons, indicating a hereditary succession. This ensured continuity and a specific, identifiable lineage for those who would mediate between God and the people.
  • Purpose of Ministry: Their ultimate purpose was to "minister in the priest's office." This involved specific duties such as offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the Tabernacle, and teaching the Law. It was a role of dedicated service to God and the community.
  • Order and Structure: God's meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle service and the roles within it demonstrate His desire for order, purity, and a structured approach to worship and relationship with Him.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrases "anointed" and "consecrated" carry significant weight in the original Hebrew:

  • "Anointed": The Hebrew word is mashach (מָשַׁח), meaning "to smear" or "to anoint." This action, typically with sacred oil, symbolized setting someone or something apart for a holy purpose and imbuing them with divine authority and enablement for their task. The anointing of Aaron and his sons is detailed in Leviticus 8.
  • "Consecrated": The Hebrew phrase used here is male' yad (מָלֵא יָד), literally meaning "filled the hand." This is an idiom for ordination or consecration, signifying the formal investiture with authority and responsibility for service. It involved specific rituals where parts of sacrificial animals were placed in their hands, symbolizing the transfer of the priestly duties and the provision for their sustenance through offerings.

Related Scriptures

While this verse names the sons, it's important to remember that the very next verse, Numbers 3:4, notes the death of two of Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, for offering "strange fire." This tragic event underscores the immense responsibility and the strict requirements for those consecrated to God's service, highlighting the need for obedience and reverence in their priestly duties.

Practical Application

Though the Old Testament priesthood has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), this verse still offers valuable lessons for believers today:

  • Divine Calling to Service: Just as Aaron's sons were chosen and set apart, God calls believers to various forms of service in the New Covenant. Every Christian is part of a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and good works.
  • Preparation and Consecration: Effective ministry requires divine preparation and consecration, setting oneself apart for God's purposes. This involves spiritual discipline, learning, and a willingness to be used by God.
  • Reverence and Obedience: The example of Nadab and Abihu serves as a perpetual reminder of the seriousness of serving God and the importance of adhering to His commands with reverence and obedience.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 28:41 (6 votes)

    And thou shalt put them upon Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him; and shalt anoint them, and consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.

  • Leviticus 8:12 (4 votes)

    And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron's head, and anointed him, to sanctify him.

  • Leviticus 8:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

  • Leviticus 8:9 (4 votes)

    And he put the mitre upon his head; also upon the mitre, [even] upon his forefront, did he put the golden plate, the holy crown; as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Leviticus 8:30 (4 votes)

    And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which [was] upon the altar, and sprinkled [it] upon Aaron, [and] upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, [and] his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

  • Exodus 40:15 (3 votes)

    And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.

  • Hebrews 7:28 (3 votes)

    For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, [maketh] the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.