민수기 Chapter 4

Translation: ESV

1

The LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying,

Key Message

God gives specific and orderly regulations for serving his presence (the tabernacle), ensuring that holiness is maintained.

▸Chapter 4 specifies the duties of the three Levitical families (Kohath, Gershon, and Merari) in transporting the tabernacle.

Chapter 4 specifies the duties of the three Levitical families (Kohath, Gershon, and Merari) in transporting the tabernacle. God speaks to both Moses and Aaron together, showing that the command of this chapter must be carried out through the cooperation of priestly and administrative authority.

3

from thirty years old up to fifty years old, all who can come on duty, to do the work in the tent of meeting.

Key Message

God's ministry requires adequate preparation and maturity; there is a form of service fitting for each stage of life.

▸The actual age for Levitical service is limited to thirty to fifty years old.

15

And when Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all the furnishings of the sanctuary, as the camp sets out, after that the sons of Kohath shall come to carry these, but they must not touch the holy things, lest they die. These are the things of the tent of meeting that the sons of Kohath are to carry.

Key Message

God's holiness does not permit approach except in the prescribed manner; reverence for the way of approaching him is the starting point of true worship.

▸The sons of Kohath bear the responsibility of transporting the most holy furnishings, but touching them directly is strictly forbidden.

49

According to the commandment of the LORD through Moses they were listed, each one with his task of serving or carrying. Thus they were listed by him, as the LORD commanded Moses.

Key Message

God gives each person a specific ministry and burden; when everyone faithfully fulfills their role, the community of God is built up.

▸The final verse of chapter 4 confirms that the enumeration of the Levites and the assignment of their duties were all carried out according to the command of the LORD.