Numbers 4 46

Numbers 4:46 kjv

All those that were numbered of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the chief of Israel numbered, after their families, and after the house of their fathers,

Numbers 4:46 nkjv

All who were numbered of the Levites, whom Moses, Aaron, and the leaders of Israel numbered, by their families and by their fathers' houses,

Numbers 4:46 niv

So Moses, Aaron and the leaders of Israel counted all the Levites by their clans and families.

Numbers 4:46 esv

All those who were listed of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron and the chiefs of Israel listed, by their clans and their fathers' houses,

Numbers 4:46 nlt

So Moses, Aaron, and the leaders of Israel listed all the Levites by their clans and families.

Numbers 4 verses

Numbers 4 46 Meaning

Numbers 4:46 serves as a summarizing statement, concluding the detailed census of the Levites eligible for service in the tabernacle. It states that all Levites, counted according to their precise familial and patrilineal divisions, were enumerated under the direct supervision of Moses, Aaron, and the tribal chiefs of Israel. This enumeration was not merely a demographic count but an authoritative mustering for specific sacred duties, emphasizing divine order, thoroughness, and accountability in the assignment of roles for the care and transport of the tabernacle.

Numbers 4 46 Context

Numbers 4:46 concludes a specific section within the Book of Numbers that details the census and assigned duties of the three main Levitical clans: the Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites. Chapters 1-4 establish the numerical and organizational structure of Israel, particularly for the journey through the wilderness. Numbers 3 gives the general overview of the Levites and their consecration, identifying them as replacements for the firstborn. Numbers 4 then focuses specifically on the Levites between 30 and 50 years of age who were fit for active service in dismantling, transporting, and reassembling the tabernacle. Verses 1-3 detailed the service requirements by age, followed by the specific tasks for the Kohathites (vv.4-15), Gershonites (vv.21-28), and Merarites (vv.29-33). Each section of Chapter 4 then records the individual census results for these three groups. Verse 46, therefore, summarizes the combined total, reaffirming that the process was meticulously conducted according to divine command by the designated leaders, ensuring every active Levite's role was precise and accountable for the tabernacle's mobility in the wilderness.

Numbers 4 46 Word analysis

• "All those that were numbered":

  • This phrase uses the Hebrew word paqad (פָּקַד), which implies more than a mere numerical count. It means to "muster," "inspect," "appoint," "visit with a purpose." Here, it signifies a formal enrollment for specific, divinely mandated service, emphasizing a careful and purposeful selection for sacred duties rather than a simple tally. It signifies divine oversight and organization.

• "of the Levites":

  • Specifies the group counted. The Levites were uniquely chosen from among all the tribes of Israel by God for sanctuary service, caring for the tabernacle, serving the priests, and eventually teaching God's law to the people (Num 3:6-9; Deut 33:10). Their selection for this specific census underlines their crucial role in the spiritual life of Israel.

• "whom Moses and Aaron and the chief of Israel numbered":

  • "Moses": The divinely appointed leader and lawgiver of Israel. His involvement signifies that the census bore the highest authority, reflecting direct adherence to God's command.
  • "Aaron": The High Priest and head of the priestly lineage. His involvement underscores the sacred nature of the census and the allocation of responsibilities within the spiritual domain of Israel. He represents the priesthood, directly overseeing the sacred tasks assigned.
  • "the chief of Israel": These were the heads of the tribes (as mentioned in Num 1:4-16, one from each tribe) who assisted Moses and Aaron. Their involvement signifies broad, consensual authority and assures the accuracy and legitimacy of the count across the entire Israelite community. It ensures communal representation and validates the census result for all tribes.

• "by their families, and by their fathers' houses":

  • This emphasizes the highly systematic and precise nature of the census. "Families" (mishpaḥot) refers to the larger clan units, while "fathers' houses" (bêt ’āb) refers to the smaller, more immediate household units.
  • This method ensured accuracy, maintained tribal identity, facilitated the assignment of specific duties based on ancestral lineage (e.g., Kohathites carried the holy furnishings, Gershonites carried coverings, Merarites carried frames and pillars), and confirmed eligibility for service. It prevented arbitrary assignments and ensured the meticulous organization necessary for God's holy work. It underscores that identity and service were intricately tied to lineage in Israelite society.

Numbers 4 46 Bonus section

• The repeated phrase "numbered according to the commandment of the Lord" (e.g., Num 4:49) further stresses the absolute authority and divine origin behind this entire census and the subsequent assignment of duties. This removes any human arbitrary decision-making.
• The emphasis on family and fathers' houses for the Levites was critical because, unlike the other tribes, they did not receive a territorial inheritance (Num 18:20-24; Deut 18:1-2). Their "inheritance" was the Lord Himself, supported by the tithes of the other tribes. Their identity and structure were thus almost solely defined by their service and lineage within the Levite tribe, making this detailed census foundational to their function.
• The numbering for service between ages 30 and 50 reflects a period of physical strength, maturity, and accumulated wisdom suitable for the arduous and precise tasks of transporting the sacred components of the Tabernacle through the wilderness. This demonstrates God's practical consideration for His servants' capabilities.

Numbers 4 46 Commentary

Numbers 4:46 provides the culmination of the Levitical census outlined in this chapter, bringing together the specific counts of the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites. This verse is far more than a simple record of numbers; it encapsulates fundamental theological and practical principles central to Israel's wilderness journey and divine worship. It highlights God's inherent demand for order, precision, and delegated authority in the execution of His will. The triple leadership of Moses, Aaron, and the tribal chiefs ensures that the census was both divinely ordained and meticulously executed, validating the authenticity and accountability of the process.

The specific enumeration "by their families, and by their fathers' houses" speaks volumes about God's organized approach to His people. It reveals that God cares for details and that His service is not a haphazard endeavor but requires careful planning and assignment according to established structures. Each Levite was accounted for, confirming their readiness and role within the larger framework of God's redemptive plan, particularly concerning the Tabernacle—the very center of God's presence among His people. This verse subtly teaches that when God establishes an order, it is meant to be respected and adhered to, ensuring harmony and efficiency in His service. It also points to the accountability of individuals and leadership alike in faithfully executing divine commands.