Numbers 4:26

And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court, which [is] by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.

And the hangings {H7050} of the court {H2691}, and the hanging {H4539} for the door {H6607} of the gate {H8179} of the court {H2691}, which is by the tabernacle {H4908} and by the altar {H4196} round about {H5439}, and their cords {H4340}, and all the instruments {H3627} of their service {H5656}, and all that is made {H6213} for them: so shall they serve {H5647}.

the tapestries for the courtyard, and the screen for the entrance to the courtyard by the tabernacle and around the altar, along with the ropes and all the utensils they need for their service; and they are to do the work connected with these things.

the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatsoever shall be done with them: therein shall they serve.

Commentary

Numbers 4:26 KJV describes the specific responsibilities assigned to the Merarite clan concerning the transportation of the Tabernacle during Israel's journey through the wilderness. This verse highlights the meticulous detail God provided for handling the sacred elements of His dwelling place.

Context

Numbers Chapter 4 provides a detailed census and assignment of duties for the three Levitical clans—the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites—who were responsible for dismantling, transporting, and reassembling the Tabernacle. Each clan had distinct, non-overlapping tasks, ensuring the holy structure was moved with precision and reverence. While the Kohathites handled the most sacred inner articles (Numbers 4:15) and the Gershonites were responsible for the coverings and curtains of the tent (Numbers 4:25), the Merarites were charged with the heavier, structural components and the perimeter of the court, as detailed in this verse and the surrounding passages. This divine organization underscored the sanctity of the Tabernacle and the importance of God's dwelling among His people.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Specificity: God's instructions were incredibly precise, leaving no room for ambiguity in the service of the Tabernacle. This emphasizes His nature as a God of order, even in the practicalities of worship.
  • Shared Responsibility in Service: While tasks differed, each Levitical clan played a vital role. The Merarites' duty, though perhaps less glamorous than handling the Ark, was essential for the Tabernacle's structure and presentation. This foreshadows the diverse gifts within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12).
  • Holiness and Reverence: Even the seemingly less "holy" parts of the Tabernacle, like the court hangings, were considered sacred and required careful, prescribed handling. This underscores the overall sanctity of God's presence and everything associated with His worship.
  • God's Presence on the Journey: The portability of the Tabernacle, meticulously managed by the Levites, ensured that God's presence remained central to the Israelites' identity and journey through the wilderness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "hangings of the court" (Hebrew: qela'ei hehatser, קְלָעֵי הֶחָצֵר) refers to the large, woven linen curtains that formed the outer enclosure of the Tabernacle courtyard. These were significant in size and weight, requiring considerable effort to transport. The "instruments of their service" was a broad term encompassing all necessary tools, pins, and fittings required for the proper setup and dismantling of these court elements. This highlights that every single item, no matter how small, was accounted for and essential for the Tabernacle's functioning.

Practical Application

Numbers 4:26 offers timeless principles for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • Every Task Matters: In God's kingdom, there are no insignificant roles. Whether handling the most visible or the most mundane aspects of ministry, all service done for the Lord is valuable and contributes to the whole, just as the Merarites' work was crucial for the Tabernacle's complete structure.
  • Order and Excellence: God desires order and diligence in our service. We are called to perform our duties with care and excellence, reflecting the character of the God we serve (1 Corinthians 14:40).
  • Stewardship: We are stewards of the resources and responsibilities God has entrusted to us, whether physical, spiritual, or relational. This verse encourages faithful management of all that pertains to His work.

Ultimately, this verse reinforces the importance of faithful, obedient service within God's divine plan, where every detail contributes to the larger purpose of glorifying Him and enabling His presence among His people.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 27:9 (2 votes)

    ¶ And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward [there shall be] hangings for the court [of] fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

  • Exodus 35:18 (2 votes)

    The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,