Números 1
J. Vernon McGee · Citado em PreceptAustin
Números 1
McGee - Elizur, the son of Shedeur, was the man. Elizur means “My God is a rock” and Shedeur means “The Almighty (Shadday) is a fire.” I like that. This man Elizur, “My God is a rock,” may belong to a tribe that is unstable as water, but he knows a Rock that is stable. He reminds me of the little Scottish lady who said, “I may tremble on the Rock, but the Rock never trembles under me.” Remember that they had sung in the song of Moses that God was their Rock. This fellow had learned that. He knew that God is a Rock in a weary land. He is the foundation Rock for us to rest on also. It is wonderful to know, my friend, that you maybe an unstable person and come from an unstable family, but there is a Rock for you. “My God is a Rock.” Elizur - Num. 1:5; Num. 2:10; Num. 7:30; Num. 7:35; Num. 10:18 Shedeur (The name may mean "Shaddai is fire," "Shaddai is light" or "Shaddai gives light.") Num. 1:5; Num. 2:10; Num. 7:30; Num. 7:35; Num. 10:18 Gaebelein - With Moses and Aaron were associated the princes of the tribes mentioned in verses 5-16. The names of these princes are of deep interest when we translate them into English. The prince of Reuben is Elizur, "My God is a rock." The Prince of Simeon, Shelumiel, "At peace with God." The Prince of Judah, Nahshon, "A diviner." Then comes Nathaniel, "The gift of God." The Prince of issachar, Zebulun, is represented by Eliab, "My God is father." Joseph has his double portion and Ephraim has Elishama, "My God hath heart." Manasseh's Prince is Gamaliel, "My God is a rewarder." Benjamin has Abidan, "My father is judge." The Prince of Dan is Ahiezer, "Brother of help." Asher has Pagiel, "Event of God." Gad's Prince is Eliasaph, "God addeth," and Naphtali is represented by Ahira, "Brother is evil." Nearly all these names are an encouragement to faith. These helpers in forming the mighty army speak by their names of the victory and blessing in store for His people if they go forward in faith. COMPARISON OF CENSUS NUMBERS 1 AND NUMBERS 26 TRIBE FIRST NUMBERING SECOND NUMBERING CHANGE Reuben 46,500 43,730 2,770 decr. Simeon 59,300 22,200 37,100 decr. Gad 45,650 40,500 5,150 decr. Judah 74,600 76,500 1,900 incr. Issachar 54,400 64,300 9,900 incr. Zebulun 57,400 60,500 3,100 incr. Manasseh 32,200 52,700 20,500 incr Ephraim 40,500 32,500 8,000 decr. Benjamin 35,400 45,600 10,200 incr. Dan 62,700 64,400 1,700 incr. Asher 41,500 53,400 11,900 incr Naphtali 53,400 45,400 8,000 decr. TOTAL 603,550 601,730 .1,820 decr Warren
Números 1
Vernon McGee - Why did they declare their pedigree? Why are pedigrees so important in the Word of God? They serve a threefold purpose. 1. They were interesting and beneficial to those who were concerned. It’s well to know something of your ancestry, what kind of stock you came from. 2. The reason some names and genealogies are omitted in the Bible and others are recorded is because it was important to preserve the genealogy of Jesus Christ. We saw in our study of Genesis how the rejected line was given first and then dropped and forgotten. Then the genealogical line which would lead to the Lord Jesus is given, and this line is followed all the way through the Scriptures. The New Testament opens with a genealogy, and the whole New Testament stands or falls on the accuracy of that genealogy. This genealogy was kept on record, and probably was open on display, in the temple of that day. Probably the enemy checked it many times, hoping to find that Jesus did not have the legal right to the throne of David. It is interesting that the accuracy of the genealogy of Jesus Christ was never questioned by His enemies. 3. God forbade intermarriage, and a true Israelite had to be able to declare his pedigree. They were the beneficiaries of the covenant made to Abraham. Also the genealogy was necessary to determine who was eligible for the priesthood. We find an example of this in the Book of Nehemiah. “And of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of Barzillai, which took one of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite to wife, and was called after their name. These sought their register among those that were reckoned by genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from the priesthood” (Neh. 7:63–64). Levites who could not declare their genealogy were put out of the priesthood. There is a message in all of this for us today. Can you imagine a young man of that day being called up and asked, “Are you an Israelite?” If he answered, “Well, I hope I’m an Israelite, but I can’t be sure until I die,” what do you think would have happened? They would have pushed him aside! Suppose another young man stepped up and they asked, “Are you an Israelite?” What do you think they would have done to him if he answered, “Well, I try to be an Israelite, I’m working real hard at it, and I hope to become one”? Would that have been acceptable? Do you see how important it was for them to declare that they were Israelites? Each one must know that he was the son of Abraham. Now I have a question for you—a quite personal question. Can you declare your pedigree as a Christian? If you don’t know whether you can or not, may I say to you that you had better be able to declare it. Listen to this: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). Can you say that, my friend? How can you become a son of God? “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:26). There is no other way. You become a son of God by faith in Christ Jesus. “But as many as received him, [the Lord Jesus], to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” (John 1:12). The authority to become the sons of God is given to those who do no more nor less than simply believe in His name. And our genealogy is important! If we are a true child of God through faith in Christ, then we are heirs of God and joint heirs of Christ! “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Gal. 3:29). “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together” (Rom. 8:14–17). You can know it. You can be born again through the blood of Christ and so be a member of the family of God. That is the only way! In this wilderness journey today, you must know who you are! You must know that you are a child of God. If you are not sure of that, you ought to make sure of it and you can make sure of it. How can you be sure? By taking God at His Word. It is not what you think or what you feel; He says that if you put your trust in Christ, you are His child. You can rest on the Word of God. Here we are given the twelve tribes of Israel and the numbers in each tribe. If you were to take an adding machine and go through this chapter, you would find that it is accurate. (Thru the Bible) Numbers 1:19 just as the LORD had commanded Moses. So he numbered them in the wilderness of Sinai. Nu 1:2 26:1,2 2Sa 24:1-10 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries MOSES OBEYS GOD just as the LORD had commanded Moses. So he numbered them in the wilderness of Sinai. Numbers 1:20 Now the sons of Reuben, Israel's firstborn, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, head by head, every male from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:10,11 26:5-7 Ge 29:32 46:9 49:3,4 1Ch 5:1 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE TRIBES NUMBERED Numbers 1:20-46 describes the numbering of the tribes, twelve minus one, the tribe of Levi being set aside to minister over God's Tabernacle. Now - literally: “and there were" (NET says "And they were as follows") which forms an inclusio with Nu 1:46 which gives us the final total. the sons of Reuben, Israel's firstborn, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, head by head, every male from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, THOUGHT - Getz associates Nu 1:20-2:2 with the call on believers to live "Well-Ordered Lives. Since we are made in God’s image, we should live our lives in an orderly fashion. Numbers 1:21 their numbered men of the tribe of Reuben were 46,500. Nu 2:10,11 26:7 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Reuben were 46,500. Numbers 1:22 Of the sons of Simeon, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, their numbered men, according to the number of names, head by head, every male from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:12,13 26:12-14 Ge 29:33 34:25-30 42:24 46:10 49:5,6 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Simeon, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, their numbered men, according to the number of names, head by head, every male from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Head (01538) see note above on gulgolet Numbers 1:23 their numbered men of the tribe of Simeon were 59,300. Nu 2:13 25:8,9,14 26:14 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Simeon were 59,300 Numbers 1:24 Of the sons of Gad, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, The tribe of Gad marched, along with that of Simeon, under the standard of Reuben; and it seems, on that account, to have been introduced in this order. The other tribes also, are here classed together according to their encampments, and the order of their subsequent march. Nu 2:14,15 26:15-18 Ge 30:10,11 46:16 49:19 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Gad, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:25 their numbered men of the tribe of Gad were 45,650. Nu 2:15 26:18 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Gad were 45,650 Numbers 1:26 Of the sons of Judah, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:3,4 26:19-22 Ge 29:35 46:12 49:8-12 2Sa 24:9 1Ch 5:2 2Ch 17:14-16 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Judah, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:27 their numbered men of the tribe of Judah were 74,600. Nu 2:3,4 26:22 2Sa 24:9 2Ch 17:14-16 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Judah were 74,600 Numbers 1:28 Of the sons of Issachar, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:5,6 23:23-25 Ge 30:18 46:13 49:14,15 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Issachar, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:29 their numbered men of the tribe of Issachar were 54,400. Nu 2:6 26:25 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Issachar were 54,400 Numbers 1:30 Of the sons of Zebulun, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:7,8 26:26,27 Ge 30:20 46:14 49:13 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Zebulun, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Numbers 1:31 their numbered men of the tribe of Zebulun were 57,400. Nu 2:8 26:27 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Zebulun were 57,400 Numbers 1:32 Of the sons of Joseph, namely, of the sons of Ephraim, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Nu 2:18,19 26:35-37 Ge 30:24 37:1-36 39:1-23 46:20 48:1-22 Ge 49:22-26 De 33:17 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Joseph, namely, of the sons of Ephraim, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:33 their numbered men of the tribe of Ephraim were 40,500. the tribe: Ge 48:5 De 33:17 were forty: Nu 2:19 26:37 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Ephraim were 40,500 Numbers 1:34 Of the sons of Manasseh, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Manasseh: Nu 26:34 Ge 41:51 46:20 48:1 50:23 De 33:17 Jos 4:12 17:1 1Ch 7:14 Rev 7:6 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Manasseh, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:35 their numbered men of the tribe of Manasseh were 32,200. Nu 2:21 26:34 Ge 48:19,20 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Manasseh were 32,200 Numbers 1:36 Of the sons of Benjamin, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Ge 35:16-18 44:20 46:21 49:27 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Benjamin, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:37 their numbered men of the tribe of Benjamin were 35,400. Nu 2:23 26:41 Jud 20:44-46 2Ch 17:17 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Benjamin were 35,400 Numbers 1:38 Of the sons of Dan, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Ge 30:5,6 46:23 49:16,17 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Dan, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:39 their numbered men of the tribe of Dan were 62,700. Nu 2:26 26:43 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Dan were 62,700 Numbers 1:40 Of the sons of Asher, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Ge 30:12,13 46:27 49:20 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Asher, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:41 their numbered men of the tribe of Asher were 41,500. Nu 2:28 26:47 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Asher were 41,500. Numbers 1:42 Of the sons of Naphtali, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war, Naphtali: Ge 30:7,8 46:24 49:21 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Of the sons of Naphtali, their genealogical registration by their families, by their fathers' households, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war Numbers 1:43 their numbered men of the tribe of Naphtali were 53,400. Nu 2:30 26:50 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries their numbered men of the tribe of Naphtali were 53,400 Numbers 1:44 These are the ones who were numbered, whom Moses and Aaron numbered, with the leaders of Israel, twelve men, each of whom was of his father's household. Nu 1:2-16 26:64 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries These are the ones who were numbered, whom Moses and Aaron numbered, with the leaders of Israel, twelve men, each of whom was of his father's household Numbers 1:45 So all the numbered men of the sons of Israel by their fathers' households, from twenty years old and upward, whoever was able to go out to war in Israel, Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Numbers 1:46 even all the numbered men were 603,550. Nu 2:32 23:10 26:51 Ge 12:2 13:16 15:5 17:6 22:17 26:3 28:14 Ge 46:3,4 Ex 12:37 38:26 De 10:22 1Ki 4:20 2Sa 24:9 1Ch 21:5 2Ch 13:3 17:14-19 Heb 11:11,12 Rev 7:4-9 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE GRAND TOTAL Even all the numbered men were 603,550 - Keep in mind this is just the men, not the women or children so that the total number of Israelites would be about 2.5 million. Consider the logistics of moving a large city today to another area. As Brian Bell says "And they did this over & over again...dismantle, pack up, the tabernacle, move, re-set up camp somewhere else. And then be ready to do it again!" This is the same number given Exodus 38:25-26+ in determining the atonement money... The silver of those of the congregation who were numbered was 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, according to the shekel of the sanctuary; 26 a beka a head (that is, half a shekel according to the shekel of the sanctuary), for each one who passed over to those who were numbered, from twenty years old and upward, for 603,550 men. Comment - The total number, by the way, is the same given in Exodus 38:26, suggesting again that the “books” of the Pentateuch are really one book. The commentaries have a major problem with these numbers and feel they are exaggerated. As Eugene Merrill asks "how could millions of people have gotten organized, maintained their cohesion, and traveled through deserts, frequently on narrow routes and difficult terrain? The answer does not lie in the possibility of text corruption, for the large figures prevail throughout the accounts....It seems best then to take the facts and figures literally and to view the movement and provision of this vast host as a part of the Lord’s miraculous provision." (BKC) Amen! If He could arrange to get them out of Egypt without being slaughtered by Pharaoh, He is certain able to orchestrate events to lead them through the wilderness. Obstacles are really opportunities to see the greatness of God. Related Resource: Are the numbers in the Bible accurate? | GotQuestions.org Numbers 1:47 The Levites, however, were not numbered among them by their fathers' tribe. Nu 1:3,50 2:33 3:1-51 4:1-49 8:1-26 26:57-62 1Ch 6:1-81 21:6 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE LEVITES SEPARATED UNTO SERVICE TO THE TABERNACLE Numbers 1:47-54 describes the separation of the tribe of Levi unto the service to Jehovah in His Tabernacle. The Levites, however, were not numbered among them by their fathers' tribe A C Gaebelein - The tribe of Levi is not included. The end of this chapter gives the reason. They were not to be among the warriors, but appointed over the tabernacle of testimony, over all the vessels, and what belonged to it. They were to bear it and their place was round about the tabernacle. Their service, divinely appointed and the beautiful lessons connected with it, we shall follow more fully in our annotations of the third and fourth chapters. Jeffrey Feinberg -No one counts the Levites, excluded from this census as well as from the judgment falling on this generation (Num. 1:47, 26:64). As a result, Levites survive to become great-grandfathers passing on their priestly heritage. (Walk Numbers) James Smith - Handfuls of Purpose - THE LEVITES AS A PECULIAR PEOPLE Numbers 1:47–54 The Levites were a peculiar people among the thousands of Israel. Their peculiarities, like the Christians, lay in their relationship to God Himself. To be closely associated with Him will always make us peculiar in the eyes of others. Think of their— 1. Separation. They were— 1. NOT NUMBERED with the others (Nu 1:47). God always makes a difference between the ordinary believer and those wholly devoted to Himself. 2. CHOSEN BY GOD (Nu 3:12). He took them instead of the firstborn in Israel, so that each had a representative character. Every firstborn not represented by a Levite had to be redeemed (Nu 3:46–48). Ye see your calling, brethren, ye who belong to the inner circle of His chosen ones. In Christ’s stead, who is the Firstborn of every creature. 3. GIVEN TO AARON (Nu 3:9). So are we, as His elect, given to Christ. Jesus revealed this thought when He said, “I have manifested Thy Name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world.” All that the Father hath given Me shall come unto Me. 4. CLAIMED BY GOD. “The Levites shall be Mine” (Nu 3:12). Peter, James, and John were the peculiar three among the Twelve, they seemed to drink most deeply of the Spirit of Jesus their Master, and so were owned by Him not so much as historians as teachers. Covet earnestly the best gifts. 2. Occupation. The work of the Levites was manifold. In these verses something of this variety is apparent. We see them as— 1. OVERSEERS. “Thou shalt appoint the Levites over the tabernacle, over the vessels, and over all things” (Nu 1:50). The chosen servants of God ought to take a general interest in everything connected with the work and worship of God. We must have a sympathetic concern for all that has to do with the service and honour of God. 2. BEARERS. “They shall bear the tabernacle” (Nu 1:50). The carrying of the things of the tabernacle was to them the “burden of the Lord.” Not every professed follower of Christ is a burden-bearer. Paul understood this experimentally when he said, “I could wish myself accursed for my brethren’s sake.” 3. MINISTERS. “They shall minister unto Me” (Nu 1:50). They were not the servants of the tabernacle, but of God. It is quite possible to be the willing servants of a Church, and yet not be ministering unto the Lord. 4. DEMOLISHERS. “The Levites shall take it down” (Nu 1:51). When the pillar moved it was theirs to take the tabernacle to pieces. Those whose office it is to handle Divine things should know how to open up and rightly divide the Word of Truth. Dissection does not mean destruction in this case. 5. BUILDERS. “The Levites shall set it up” (Nu 1:51). They had at times to take the house board from board, but they could and did put it up again. They were no type of those destructive critics who can only pull down, but cannot build up. Those who cannot set the things of God’s house in order had better let them alone. 6. MEDIATORS. “The Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle that there be no wrath upon the congregation” (v. 53). According to their position they were a channel of blessing or of curse to the people. Such are they who occupy the position of public teachers of the Word and will of God. Taking our true place before God and the people we may save many from the wrath to come. Ye are the salt of the earth. Ours should be the position of devoted ones. 7. KEEPERS. “The Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle” (Nu 1:53). They were custodians of the Lord’s treasure. At their hands He required every vessel and curtain, every board, pillar, and pin. Are we as His servants faithfully keeping all that the Lord has committed unto us. Hath He not committed unto us the word of reconciliation? (2 Cor. 5:19). Paul, almost with his dying breath, said, “O Timothy, keep what is committed to thee.” “I have kept the faith” (2 Ti 4:6–8). Numbers 1:48 For the LORD had spoken to Moses, saying, Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries For the LORD had spoken to Moses, saying, Numbers 1:49 "Only the tribe of Levi you shall not number, nor shall you take their census among the sons of Israel. Nu 2:33 26:62 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries MILITARY EXEMPTIONS Only the tribe of Levi you shall not number, nor shall you take their census among the sons of Israel - The Levites are exempted from war to minister to God through care of the Tabernacle. Rayburn notes that "One interesting feature of the literary organization of Numbers is the use of prolepses, passages that anticipate material to be given later. This section on the duties of the Levites has nothing particular to do with the census that comes before it or the arrangement of the camp that comes after it. But those duties will be reported in great detail in chapters 3 and 4. This is, in other words, something of a tease. There are a number of these prolepses or anticipations throughout the book. [Milgrom, xxx]. John R Spence says "“It is in the context of developing a military organization for war that the Levites are assigned their tasks in relation to the tabernacle. In a sense, their military assignment is the care and transportation of the religious shrine. Num. 1:49–53 clearly outlines the requirements for the militaristic protection of the tabernacle by the Levites.” Numbers 1:50 "But you shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, and over all its furnishings and over all that belongs to it. They shall carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings, and they shall take care of it; they shall also camp around the tabernacle. thou shalt: Nu 3:1-10 4:15,25-33 Ex 31:18 32:26-29 38:21 1Ch 23:1-32 1Ch 25:1-26:32 Ezr 8:25-30,33,34 Ne 12:8,22,47 13:5,10-13,22 the tabernacle: Nu 1:53 20:11 Ex 31:18 38:21 Ps 122:4 shall encamp: Nu 2:17 3:23-38 10:21 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries LEVITES DUTIES TO THE TABERNACLE But you shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the testimony, and over all its furnishings and over all that belongs to it - Tabernacle of the testimony is the same as Tent of meeting (see note) Appoint (number, numbered) (06485)(pequddah/pāqadh/paqad) conveys the root idea of something that is attended to or set in order -- fighting men under an officer (2 Chr. 17:14), priests in an order (1 Chr. 23:11; 24:19); arrangement of Tabernacle (Nu 4:16[2x]). Office of one in charge of something (Ps 109:8) or officers (2 Ki. 11:18; Isa. 60:17). Usually pequddah means accounting when God attended to people's actions, usually to call them to account for their sins (Nu 16:29; Jer. 48:44). In Job 10:12 God's attention was for Job's good. "The basic meaning is to exercise oversight over a subordinate, either in the form of inspecting or of taking action to cause a considerable change in the circumstances of the subordinate either for the better or for the worse." (TWOT) "Most often, the word means accounting and refers to a time of accounting when God attended to people's actions, usually to call them to account for their sins (Num. 16:29; Jer. 48:44)." (Baker) Paqad in Numbers - (103x in 90v in Numbers out of about 297x in OT) Num. 1:3; Num. 1:19; Num. 1:21; Num. 1:22; Num. 1:23; Num. 1:25; Num. 1:27; Num. 1:29; Num. 1:31; Num. 1:33; Num. 1:35; Num. 1:37; Num. 1:39; Num. 1:41; Num. 1:43; Num. 1:44; Num. 1:45; Num. 1:46; Num. 1:47; Num. 1:49; Num. 1:50; Num. 2:4; Num. 2:6; Num. 2:8; Num. 2:9; Num. 2:11; Num. 2:13; Num. 2:15; Num. 2:16; Num. 2:19; Num. 2:21; Num. 2:23; Num. 2:24; Num. 2:26; Num. 2:28; Num. 2:30; Num. 2:31; Num. 2:32; Num. 2:33; Num. 3:10; Num. 3:15; Num. 3:16; Num. 3:22; Num. 3:34; Num. 3:39; Num. 3:40; Num. 3:42; Num. 3:43; Num. 4:23; Num. 4:27; Num. 4:29; Num. 4:30; Num. 4:32; Num. 4:34; Num. 4:36; Num. 4:37; Num. 4:38; Num. 4:40; Num. 4:41; Num. 4:42; Num. 4:44; Num. 4:45; Num. 4:46; Num. 4:48; Num. 4:49; Num. 7:2; Num. 14:18; Num. 14:29; Num. 16:29; Num. 26:7; Num. 26:18; Num. 26:22; Num. 26:25; Num. 26:27; Num. 26:34; Num. 26:37; Num. 26:41; Num. 26:43; Num. 26:47; Num. 26:50; Num. 26:51; Num. 26:54; Num. 26:57; Num. 26:62; Num. 26:63; Num. 26:64; Num. 27:16; Num. 31:14; Num. 31:48; Num. 31:49; NET Note - The same verb translated “number” (פָּקַד, paqad) is now used to mean “appoint” (הַפְקֵד, hafqed), which focuses more on the purpose of the verbal action of numbering people. Here the idea is that the Levites were appointed to take care of the tabernacle. On the use of this verb with the Levites’ appointment, see M. Gertner, “The Masorah and the Levites,” VT 10 (1960): 252. They shall also camp around the tabernacle - Think about this one for a moment. What does that picture if all the other tribes are outside of them? Clearly they are the "go between" to the Tabernacle, the place and presence of God. They were in effect mediators. Although it is not specifically stated, it is fairly certain that the Tabernacle was marked by the Shekinah glory cloud. NET NOTE on tabernacle - The Hebrew name used here is מִשְׁכַּן הָעֵדֻת (mishkan ha’edut). The tabernacle or dwelling place of the LORD was given this name because it was here that the tablets of the Law were kept. The whole shrine was therefore a reminder (הָעֵדוּת, a “warning sign” or “testimony”) of the stipulations of the covenant. For the ancient Near Eastern customs of storing the code in the sanctuaries, see M. G. Kline, Treaty of the Great King, 14–19, and idem, The Structure of Biblical Authority, 35–36. Other items were in the ark in the beginning, but by the days of Solomon only the tablets were there (1 Kgs 8:9). Tabernacle (Dwelling) (04908)(mishkan from verb shakan = to settle down, to abide, to dwell) is a masculine noun which means dwelling place or sanctuary and is most often translated "tabernacle." And in over half of the uses mishkan was preceded by the definite article which conveyed the sense that it was "the tabernacle," not just any tabernacle, but is the one where Jehovah dwelt. In the first use Jehovah declares His intent to dwell (Hebrew = shakan) among Israel (Ex 25:8, Lev 26:11), for which He instructs them to construct the tabernacle (Ex 25:9). Addressing Israel Jehovah says "Moreover, I will make My dwelling among you, and My soul will not reject you." (Lev 26:11) Mishkan is often found in parallel with or described by the Hebrew word for tent (Ex. 26:35; Jer. 30:18). In one of the saddest verses in the OT, we read "For our fathers have been unfaithful and have done evil in the sight of the LORD our God, and have forsaken Him and turned their faces away from the dwelling place (mishkan; Lxx = skene) of the LORD, and have turned [their] backs." (2Chr 29:6) The Lxx translates mishkan here with the noun skene which describes a temporary lodging place. The related verb skenoo is used to describe Jesus "tabernacling" with men - "And the Word (Jn 1:1-3+) became flesh, and dwelt (skenoo) among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." (Jn 1:14+) Skene is used in the Septuagint (Lxx) to translate the Hebrew noun mishkan which was the dwelling place of God. The verb from which mishkan is derived is shakan which gives rise to the term Shekinah (wikipedia), not found in the Bible but introduced in the Talmudic literature to describe the cloud of glory over the Holy of holies in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), which was the visual manifestation of the presence of Jehovah (See discussion of the Shekinah glory cloud) Mishkan as it related to God's Dwelling place had at least two names - (1) Tent of meeting - First Chronicles we read "they ministered with song before the tabernacle (Lxx = skene = generally used to describe a transitory, movable lodging place for nomads, pilgrims, etc) of the tent (Heb = ohel) of meeting (See discussion of "tent of meeting"), until Solomon had built the house of the LORD in Jerusalem; and they served in their office according to their order." (2) Tent of Testimony - (Ex. 38:21; Nu 9:15) because the the Ten Commandments (God's "Testimony") were kept in the Holy of Holies. Of note is that once Solomon's Temple was finished, the word mishkan was almost never used of that structure. They shall carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings, and they shall take care of it - NET has "They must carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings; and they must attend to it and camp around it," noting that "The imperfect tense here is an obligatory imperfect telling that they are bound to do this since they are appointed for this specific task. The addition of the pronoun (THEY) before the verb is emphatic—they are the ones who are to attend to the tabernacle. The verb used is שָׁרַת (sharat) in the Piel, indicating that they are to serve, minister to, attend to all the details about this shrine." Numbers 1:51 "So when the tabernacle is to set out, the Levites shall take it down; and when the tabernacle encamps, the Levites shall set it up. But the layman who comes near shall be put to death. BGT Numbers 1:51 καὶ ἐν τῷ ἐξαίρειν τὴν σκηνὴν καθελοῦσιν αὐτὴν οἱ Λευῖται καὶ ἐν τῷ παρεμβάλλειν τὴν σκηνὴν ἀναστήσουσιν καὶ ὁ ἀλλογενὴς ὁ προσπορευόμενος ἀποθανέτω NET Numbers 1:51 Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites must take it down, and whenever the tabernacle is to be reassembled, the Levites must set it up. Any unauthorized person who approaches it must be killed. NLT Numbers 1:51 Whenever it is time for the Tabernacle to move, the Levites will take it down. And when it is time to stop, they will set it up again. But any unauthorized person who goes too near the Tabernacle must be put to death. ESV Numbers 1:51 When the tabernacle is to set out, the Levites shall take it down, and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up. And if any outsider comes near, he shall be put to death. NIV Numbers 1:51 Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites are to take it down, and whenever the tabernacle is to be set up, the Levites shall do it. Anyone else who goes near it shall be put to death. the Levites: Nu 4:5-33 10:11,17-21 the stranger: Nu 3:10,38 16:40 18:22 Lev 22:10-13 1Sa 6:19 2Sa 6:7 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries TABERNACLE DISASSEMBLING AND ASSEMBLING So when the tabernacle is to set out, the Levites shall take it down; and when the tabernacle encamps, the Levites shall set it up (literally = “raise it up.”) - Only the Levites were to come in contact with the tabernacle, because it was holy. God’s presence and holiness was not to be taken lightly. The Levites had an awesome responsibility before the Lord. Without a doubt, it was not to be taken lightly. NET NOTE - The construction uses the infinitive construct with the temporal preposition; the “tabernacle” is then the following genitive. Literally it is “and in the moving of the tabernacle,” meaning, “when the tabernacle is supposed to be moved,” i.e., when people are supposed to move it. The verb נָסָע (nasa’) means “pull up the tent pegs and move,” or more simply, “journey.” But the layman who comes near shall be put to death - What is the simple but clear message? God is holy and he who approaches Him must be holy! How incredible that we can today approach Him with boldness and without fear of death because of the death of His Son Who has clothed us in His righteousness and holiness! The story of Uzzah is testimony to this strict rule. See 2 Sam. 6:1-10. See also 1 Sa 6:19–20; Layman (stranger, , outsider) (02114)(zur) is a verb which means to be a stranger. Things described as strange (in this sense the verb seems to be used as an adjective) - fire, gods (Dt 32:16, Ps 44:20), waters (2Ki 19:24 = water in foreign lands), children ("illegitimate" - NAS, "alien" - ESV) There were certain preparations that had to be made for a person to approach the Tabernacle. The Levites had to make sure that no one approached it unprepared. It was their duty to keep God’s wrath from falling upon the people because of some neglect or because someone came unprepared. It was their duty to teach the people to approach God with fear and reverence. Wenham - Similar precautions were taken to prevent men straying on to Mount Sinai when God appeared on it (Exod. 19:11–13, 21–24). The New Testament also insists on men approaching God with reverent fear (Matt. 5:23–26; Acts 5:1–5; 1 Cor. 11:27–32; Heb. 12:18–29). (TOTC-Num) THOUGHT- Holy-God was not making arbitrary and harsh regulations for the people. There was a serious educational purpose in this matter. The people had to learn that God is holy and they are sinful; they had to learn that they cannot approach God in any way they choose. They approach God only on God's own terms. We belong to God. He does not belong to us. We must respect the holiness, the complete otherness of God. (Disciple's Study Bible) Disciples Study Bible - GOD, Holy—God was not making arbitrary and harsh regulations for the people. There was a serious educational purpose in this matter. The people had to learn that God is holy and they are sinful; they had to learn that they cannot approach God in any way they choose. They approach God only on God's own terms. We belong to God. He does not belong to us. We must respect the holiness, the complete otherness of God. Numbers 1:52 "The sons of Israel shall camp, each man by his own camp, and each man by his own standard, according to their armies. Nu 2:2,34 10:1-36 24:2 Numbers 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Levites surround the Tabernacle (not shown) Then the placement of the other 12 Tribes. (See another schematic) The sons of Israel shall camp, each man by his own camp, and each man by his own standard, according to their armies - "The army was organized, each tribe with its leaders and its standard. There was unity in diversity. Perhaps the camp of Israel pictures the church. There are different “tribes” and standards, with their different leaders, but it is one army, following one Commander and fighting one enemy:" (