Bible in 365 Days

Numbers 3-4

Numbers 3

The account of the arrangements for the service of the Levites is fully and carefully given in this and the following chapter. In the rites are certain matters of principle which are of permanent value. First there is the fact of the separation of this tribe by divine arrangement to the sacred service of the sanctuary. It must ever be borne in mind that the Levites occupied that position in a representative capacity. The original provision was that the first-born in every family should be set apart to the work of priesthood. In all probability for the sake of cohesion and order this tribe was now appointed to represent the first-born. This they did, man for man, their number at this period being twenty-two thousand. When the census of the first-born was taken, it was found that there were 273 more first-born than Levites. These unrepresented first-born were commanded to pay a redemption price devoted to the service of the sanctuary. All these arrangements solemnly emphasized for the people the supreme importance of worship and at the same time revealed to them the orderliness of Jehovah. It is of interest to remember that while Our Lord after the flesh was not of the tribe of Levi, He was the Firstborn and so, according to the original provision - a Priest.

Numbers 4

Continuing the instructions concerning the Levites, we have a minute account of their work in connection with the movement and marching of the people. The family of Kohath were made responsible for carrying the holy furniture. This furniture they were not allowed to see or touch. Aaron and his sons first entered the Holy Place and covered each sacred piece, affixing the staves which were to rest on the shoulders of the Levites. On the march these were in charge of Eleazar, who also carried the anointing oil and the sweet incense.

The duty of carrying the curtains and the tents which constituted the Tabernacle itself devolved on the Gershonites.

The boards and bars and pillars and all other things which formed the foundations on which the sacred hangings rested were committed to the care of the Merarites.

All this is technical, and yet it cannot be studied without realizing how it emphasized the importance of the relation of the people to Jehovah. The sacred symbols of that relationship were to be as carefully guarded on the forward march as when they stood in proper order at the center of the encamped people.