Numbers 1:53
Numbers 1:53 in Multiple Translations
But the Levites are to camp around the tabernacle of the Testimony and watch over it, so that no wrath will fall on the congregation of Israel. So the Levites are responsible for the tabernacle of the Testimony.”
But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony.
But the Levites shall encamp round about the tabernacle of the testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of the testimony.
But the tents of the Levites are to be round the Tent of meeting, so that wrath may not come on the children of Israel: the Tent of meeting is to be in the care of the Levites.
But the Levites are to set up their camp around the Tabernacle of the Testimony to prevent anyone from making me angry with the Israelites. The Levites are responsible for looking after the Tabernacle of the Testimony.”
But the Leuites shall pitch rounde about the Tabernacle of the Testimonie, least vengeance come vpon the Congregation of the children of Israel, and the Leuites shall take the charge of the Tabernacle of the Testimonie.
and the Levites encamp round about the tabernacle of the testimony; and there is no wrath on the company of the sons of Israel, and the Levites have kept the charge of the tabernacle of the testimony.
But the Levites shall encamp around the Tabernacle of the Testimony, that there may be no wrath on the congregation of the children of Israel. The Levites shall be responsible for the Tabernacle of the Testimony.”
But the Levites shall pitch around the tabernacle of testimony; that there may be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony.
But the Levites shall pitch their tents round about the tabernacle, lest there come indignation upon the multitude of the children of Israel, and they shall keep watch, and guard the tabernacle of the testimony.
But the male descendants of Levi must set up their tents around the Sacred Tent, in order to protect the other Israeli people from being punished [MTY] by Yahweh for coming close to the Sacred Tent. The descendants of Levi are the ones who must stand around the Sacred Tent to guard it.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Numbers 1:53
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Numbers 1:53 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּ֞ם
יַחֲנ֤וּ
סָבִיב֙
לְ/מִשְׁכַּ֣ן
הָ/עֵדֻ֔ת
וְ/לֹֽא
יִהְיֶ֣ה
קֶ֔צֶף
עַל
עֲדַ֖ת
בְּנֵ֣י
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
וְ/שָׁמְרוּ֙
הַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
אֶת
מִשְׁמֶ֖רֶת
מִשְׁכַּ֥ן
הָ/עֵדֽוּת
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּ֞ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
Levi
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
יַחֲנ֤וּ
chânâh
H2583
to camp
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
סָבִיב֙
çâbîyb
H5439
around
N-cs
לְ/מִשְׁכַּ֣ן
mishkân
H4908
tabernacle
Prep | N-ms
הָ/עֵדֻ֔ת
ʻêdûwth
H5715
testimony
Art | N-fs
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Conj | Part
יִהְיֶ֣ה
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
קֶ֔צֶף
qetseph
H7110
wrath
N-ms
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
עֲדַ֖ת
ʻêdâh
H5712
congregation
N-fs
בְּנֵ֣י
bên
H1121
son
N-mp
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
Israel
N-proper
וְ/שָׁמְרוּ֙
shâmar
H8104
to keep
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
הַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
Levi
Art | Ngmpa
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
מִשְׁמֶ֖רֶת
mishmereth
H4931
charge
N-fs
מִשְׁכַּ֥ן
mishkân
H4908
tabernacle
N-ms
הָ/עֵדֽוּת
ʻêdûwth
H5715
testimony
Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Numbers 1:53
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּ֞ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
"Levi"
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.
יַחֲנ֤וּ
chânâh
H2583
"to camp"
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp
This Hebrew verb means to set up camp or pitch a tent, like when the Israelites encamped in the wilderness. It can also mean to lay siege against a city.
Definition: 1) to decline, incline, encamp, bend down, lay siege against 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to decline 1a2) to encamp
Usage: Occurs in 135 OT verses. KJV: abide (in tents), camp, dwell, encamp, grow to an end, lie, pitch (tent), rest in tent. See also: Genesis 26:17; Numbers 33:33; Psalms 27:3.
סָבִיב֙
çâbîyb
H5439
"around"
N-cs
This word describes something that surrounds or encompasses, like a circle or neighborhood, and can also mean around or about, as in on every side. It is used to describe physical locations and proximity. The KJV translates it as about or circuit.
Definition: : around/border subst 1) places round about, circuit, round about adv 2) in a circuit, a circuit, round about prep 3) in the circuit, from every side
Usage: Occurs in 282 OT verses. KJV: (place, round) about, circuit, compass, on every side. See also: Genesis 23:17; 1 Kings 7:24; Psalms 3:7.
לְ/מִשְׁכַּ֣ן
mishkân
H4908
"tabernacle"
Prep | N-ms
The tabernacle was a special tent where God met with the Israelites, as described in Exodus and Leviticus. It was a portable place of worship, like a dwelling place for God. The Israelites carried it with them.
Definition: 1) dwelling place, tabernacle 1a) dwelling-place 1b) dwellings Aramaic equivalent: mish.kan (מִשְׁכַּן "habitation" H4907)
Usage: Occurs in 129 OT verses. KJV: dwelleth, dwelling (place), habitation, tabernacle, tent. See also: Exodus 25:9; Numbers 3:23; Psalms 26:8.
הָ/עֵדֻ֔ת
ʻêdûwth
H5715
"testimony"
Art | N-fs
This word means a testimony or witness, often referring to God's laws or instructions. It is used in several books, including Exodus and Deuteronomy, to describe God's guidance. The word emphasizes the importance of following God's laws.
Definition: testimony
Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: testimony, witness. See also: Exodus 16:34; Numbers 17:19; Psalms 19:8.
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יִהְיֶ֣ה
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
קֶ֔צֶף
qetseph
H7110
"wrath"
N-ms
This word can mean a small splinter or twig, but also figuratively describes rage or strife, like the foam on a furious animal's mouth in Job 39:24. It signifies intense emotion or turmoil, often used to convey a sense of urgency or danger. The Bible uses it to describe intense feelings.
Definition: 1) wrath, anger 1a) of God 1b) of man
Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: foam, indignation, [idiom] sore, wrath. See also: Numbers 1:53; Esther 1:18; Psalms 38:2.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
עֲדַ֖ת
ʻêdâh
H5712
"congregation"
N-fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gathering of people, like a congregation or crowd, often referring to a group of Israelites. It is used in various books, including Exodus and Psalms. The word is about people coming together.
Definition: congregation, gathering
Usage: Occurs in 140 OT verses. KJV: assembly, company, congregation, multitude, people, swarm. Compare H5713 (עֵדָה). See also: Exodus 12:3; Numbers 20:1; Psalms 1:5.
בְּנֵ֣י
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
Yisrâʼêl
H3478
"Israel"
N-proper
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
וְ/שָׁמְרוּ֙
shâmar
H8104
"to keep"
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.
Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from
Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.
הַ/לְוִיִּ֔ם
Lêvîyîy
H3881
"Levi"
Art | Ngmpa
A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
מִשְׁמֶ֖רֶת
mishmereth
H4931
"charge"
N-fs
Mishmereth refers to a guard or watch, such as a sentry or a post, emphasizing the act of preservation or safekeeping, like a duty or obligation to protect something or someone.
Definition: 1) guard, charge, function, obligation, service, watch 1a) guard, watch, house of detention or confinement 1b) keeping, preserving 1c) charge, injunction 1d) office, function (ceremonial)
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: charge, keep, or to be kept, office, ordinace, safeguard, ward, watch. See also: Genesis 26:5; Joshua 22:3; Isaiah 21:8.
מִשְׁכַּ֥ן
mishkân
H4908
"tabernacle"
N-ms
The tabernacle was a special tent where God met with the Israelites, as described in Exodus and Leviticus. It was a portable place of worship, like a dwelling place for God. The Israelites carried it with them.
Definition: 1) dwelling place, tabernacle 1a) dwelling-place 1b) dwellings Aramaic equivalent: mish.kan (מִשְׁכַּן "habitation" H4907)
Usage: Occurs in 129 OT verses. KJV: dwelleth, dwelling (place), habitation, tabernacle, tent. See also: Exodus 25:9; Numbers 3:23; Psalms 26:8.
הָ/עֵדֽוּת
ʻêdûwth
H5715
"testimony"
Art | N-fs
This word means a testimony or witness, often referring to God's laws or instructions. It is used in several books, including Exodus and Deuteronomy, to describe God's guidance. The word emphasizes the importance of following God's laws.
Definition: testimony
Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: testimony, witness. See also: Exodus 16:34; Numbers 17:19; Psalms 19:8.
Study Notes — Numbers 1:53
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Numbers 1:53 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Numbers 1:53
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 1:53
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
- Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
- Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
- Cambridge Bible on Numbers 1:53
- Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
- Sermons on Numbers 1:53
Context — The Exemption of the Levites
51Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites are to take it down, and whenever it is to be pitched, the Levites are to set it up. Any outsider who goes near it must be put to death.
52The Israelites are to camp by their divisions, each man in his own camp and under his own standard.
53But the Levites are to camp around the tabernacle of the Testimony and watch over it, so that no wrath will fall on the congregation of Israel. So the Levites are responsible for the tabernacle of the Testimony.”
54Thus the Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Numbers 16:46 | Moses said to Aaron, “Take your censer, place fire from the altar in it, and add incense. Go quickly to the congregation and make atonement for them, because wrath has come out from the LORD; the plague has begun.” |
| 2 | 1 Chronicles 23:32 | So the Levites were to carry out the responsibilities for the Tent of Meeting and the Holy Place, and, under their brothers the descendants of Aaron, the service of the house of the LORD. |
| 3 | Leviticus 10:6 | Then Moses said to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, “Do not let your hair become disheveled and do not tear your garments, or else you will die, and the LORD will be angry with the whole congregation. But your brothers, the whole house of Israel, may mourn on account of the fire that the LORD has ignited. |
| 4 | Numbers 3:7–8 | They are to perform duties for him and for the whole congregation before the Tent of Meeting, attending to the service of the tabernacle. They shall take care of all the furnishings of the Tent of Meeting and fulfill obligations for the Israelites by attending to the service of the tabernacle. |
| 5 | Numbers 8:19 | And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and his sons from among the Israelites, to perform the service for the Israelites at the Tent of Meeting and to make atonement on their behalf, so that no plague will come against the Israelites when they approach the sanctuary.” |
| 6 | Numbers 31:47 | From the Israelites’ half, Moses took one out of every fifty persons and animals and gave them to the Levites who kept charge of the tabernacle of the LORD, as the LORD had commanded him. |
| 7 | Numbers 8:24–26 | “This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years of age or older shall enter to perform the service in the work at the Tent of Meeting. But at the age of fifty, they must retire from performing the work and no longer serve. After that, they may assist their brothers in fulfilling their duties at the Tent of Meeting, but they themselves are not to do the work. This is how you are to assign responsibilities to the Levites.” |
| 8 | Numbers 31:30 | From the Israelites’ half, take one out of every fifty, whether persons, cattle, donkeys, sheep, or other animals, and give them to the Levites who keep charge of the tabernacle of the LORD.” |
| 9 | Jeremiah 5:31 | The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own authority. My people love it so, but what will you do in the end? |
| 10 | Acts 20:28–31 | Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them. Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. |
Numbers 1:53 Summary
This verse means that the Levites were responsible for taking care of the tabernacle, which was a special place where God met with His people, as seen in Exodus 25:22. The Levites had to make sure that no one who wasn't supposed to be there went inside, or God might become angry with the whole community (Numbers 1:53). This teaches us that God wants us to respect and care for the things that are special to Him, just like the Levites did with the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 16:37-40). By following God's instructions and respecting His holiness, we can avoid His wrath and live in a way that pleases Him (Deuteronomy 10:12-13).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Levites tasked with watching over the tabernacle of the Testimony?
The Levites were tasked with watching over the tabernacle of the Testimony to prevent any unauthorized access and to maintain the holiness of the place, as commanded by God in Exodus 29:9 and Numbers 1:53.
What would happen if someone other than a Levite approached the tabernacle?
According to Numbers 1:51, anyone who was not a Levite and approached the tabernacle would be put to death, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions for the tabernacle's care.
How does this relate to the concept of God's wrath in the Bible?
The idea of God's wrath in Numbers 1:53 is connected to the concept of God's holiness and justice, as seen in verses like Deuteronomy 29:20 and Romans 1:18, where God's wrath is poured out on those who disobey Him.
What role do the Levites play in maintaining the spiritual well-being of the Israelites?
The Levites played a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual well-being of the Israelites by serving as mediators between God and the people, as seen in Numbers 1:53 and Deuteronomy 33:10, where they were responsible for teaching God's laws and maintaining the tabernacle.
Reflection Questions
- What does this verse reveal about God's character and His desire for holiness among His people?
- How can I apply the principle of guarding against God's wrath in my own life, by obeying His commands and following His instructions?
- What role do leaders and spiritual leaders play in maintaining the spiritual well-being of their communities, and how can they learn from the example of the Levites in Numbers 1:53?
- In what ways can I prioritize the maintenance of my own spiritual health and well-being, just as the Levites prioritized the care of the tabernacle?
Gill's Exposition on Numbers 1:53
But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony,.... Between the tabernacle and the camps of Israel, to guard the tabernacle and preserve the things in it, and to keep persons
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 1:53
But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among them. But the Levites ... were not numbered. They were obliged to keep a register of their own.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
No wrath, to wit, from God, who is very tender of his worship, and will not suffer the profaners of it to go unpunished; whose wrath is called simply wrath by way of eminency, as the most terrible kind of wrath. Shall keep the charge, i.e. shall suffer no stranger to approach through curiosity, or any other motive.
Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
Numbers 1:53 But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony.Ver. 53. Shall pitch round about.] As the living creatures (the ministers) are between the four and twenty eiders, the congregation of the faithful, and the throne.
Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
(53) That there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel.—The word kezeph (wrath) is used to denote some immediate visitation of the hand of God, as, e.g., the plague. Thus, after the plague which broke out in consequence of the sin of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, we read in Numbers 18:5 “that there be no wrath (kezeph) any more upon the children of Israel.” In Numbers 8:19 the word negeph (plague) is used in the same sense as kezeph is used here. (Cf. Joshua 9:20; 2 Kings 3:27; 1 Chronicles 27:24.)
Cambridge Bible on Numbers 1:53
53. that there be no wrath] i.e. Divine judgement for the violation of the sacredness of the Tabernacle; cf. Numbers 8:19. The Tabernacle was an outward expression of a great religious ideal—that of the dwelling of Jehovah in the midst of His people. But the religious ideal of the Jew fell short of the truth revealed in Christianity. The Jew strained every nerve to safeguard the awful unapproachableness of God, whereas the Christian knows that he can ‘draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace’ (Hebrews 4:16). For this purpose the Jewish writers represented the Tabernacle as surrounded by a cordon of ‘clergy,’ i.e. the sons of Aaron and the three Levitical families. And outside them the laity of Israel pitched their tents according to their tribes, in the positions specified in ch. 2. This arrangement is a counterpart of Ezekiel’s ideal description of the assignment of land to the several tribes round the Temple which should be built when Israel was restored from exile (Ezekiel 48).
Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 1:53
53. That there be no wrath — By the Levites encamped around the sacred tabernacle a strong guard was established for its protection, and a safeguard to keep the people from intrusion into the
Sermons on Numbers 1:53
| Sermon | Description | |
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Left Behind by George Matheson | George Matheson emphasizes the significance of the Levites, who were overlooked and uncounted in the census of Israel, yet held a vital role in maintaining the tabernacle. He illus |
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Service by John Nelson Darby | John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of service within the Church, drawing parallels from the Levites' role in the Old Testament. He explains that true service stems from |
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The Cost of Worship by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility and simplicity of Jesus Christ. He compares Jesus to the apostle Paul, who often said "finally" but continued to write more cha |
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Self Denial and Discipline by Miles DeBenedictis | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the analogy of athletes preparing for the ancient games in Corinth. He emphasizes the rigorous training and discipline that these athletes und |
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Ivory Houses & Fat Cows: The Excessive Nonsense of the Modern Christian Church by Joseph LoSardo | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the decline of a nation that was once a leader in industry and ponders its future. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on God and His s |
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Fren-14 Fondements Apostoliques - Église Dans Les Desseins De Dieu by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing his own concerns and anxieties about preaching to an audience. He emphasizes the need for God's guidance and grace in order to effe |
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Judges 17:6 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith addresses the chaotic state of Israel during the time of the Judges, emphasizing the lack of leadership and direction that led the people to follow paths of moral relat |