Numbers 3:34

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.

And those that were numbered {H6485} of them, according to the number {H4557} of all the males {H2145}, from a month {H2320} old {H1121} and upward {H4605}, were six {H8337} thousand {H505} and two hundred {H3967}.

Of them, 6,200 males a month old and over were counted.

The number of all the males a month old or more was 6,200.

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.

Commentary

Numbers 3:34 provides a specific detail within the larger census of the Levitical families, stating the exact number of Merarite males counted as part of their preparation for service in the Tabernacle. This verse reads, "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."

Context

This verse is part of a detailed account in Numbers chapter 3 concerning the organization and duties of the Levites, the tribe set apart by God for special service to the Tabernacle. Following the counts of the Gershonites and Kohathites, Numbers 3:33-37 focuses on the Merarites. Their primary responsibility was the care of the Tabernacle's heavier, more structural elements, including its boards, bars, pillars, and sockets (as detailed in Numbers 4:31-32). This precise numbering was crucial for understanding the workforce available for these vital, sacred tasks. The overall Levitical census for service is summarized in Numbers 3:39.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous counting of each Levitical family underscores God's desire for order and precision in worship and service. Every aspect of the Tabernacle's function, down to the number of those responsible for its parts, was carefully planned by God.
  • Specific Roles and Responsibilities: Each Levitical clan had distinct duties. The Merarites were entrusted with the heavy lifting and structural integrity of the Tabernacle, highlighting that every role, no matter how seemingly laborious, was essential to God's plan. This points to the principle of different members having different functions within the body of Christ.
  • Consecration to Service: The census included males "from a month old and upward," indicating that the Merarites, like all Levites, were consecrated for service from a very young age, signifying a lifelong dedication to God's purposes, replacing the firstborn of Israel as detailed in Numbers 3:12-13.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew term for "numbered" (paqad - ืคืงื“) implies more than just a simple count; it suggests a divine visitation, appointment, or oversight. In this context, it signifies that God was not just counting but also acknowledging and setting apart these individuals for their specific, holy duties. The phrase "from a month old and upward" (ืžึดื‘ึผึถืŸึพื—ึนื“ึถืฉื ื•ึธืžึธืขึฐืœึธื”) indicates the inclusion of even infants in the tribal count, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the Levitical consecration and the full scope of those dedicated to the Lord.

Practical Application

Numbers 3:34, though a specific historical record, offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us that God values order, preparation, and faithfulness in service. Just as the Merarites had a vital, albeit physically demanding, role in maintaining the Tabernacle, so too does every believer have a unique and important part to play in God's kingdom today. Our tasks, whether grand or seemingly small, contribute to the larger work of God when performed with diligence and a spirit of dedication. It encourages us to find our place and serve with purpose, understanding that God sees and values every detail of our obedience.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:21 (2 votes)

    Those that were numbered of them, [even] of the tribe of Reuben, [were] forty and six thousand and five hundred.

  • Numbers 2:9 (2 votes)

    All that were numbered in the camp of Judah [were] an hundred thousand and fourscore thousand and six thousand and four hundred, throughout their armies. These shall first set forth.

  • Numbers 2:11 (2 votes)

    And his host, and those that were numbered thereof, [were] forty and six thousand and five hundred.