Numbers 3:4
Numbers 3:4 in Multiple Translations
Nadab and Abihu, however, died in the presence of the LORD when they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD in the Wilderness of Sinai. And since they had no sons, only Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests during the lifetime of their father Aaron.
And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest’s office in the sight of Aaron their father.
And Nadab and Abihu died before Jehovah, when they offered strange fire before Jehovah, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children; and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest’s office in the presence of Aaron their father.
And Nadab and Abihu were put to death before the Lord when they made an offering of strange fire before the Lord, in the waste land of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar did the work of priests before Aaron their father.
Nadab and Abihu died in the Lord's presence when they offered forbidden fire before the Lord in the Sinai desert. Since they didn't have any sons, Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests while their father Aaron was alive.
And Nadab and Abihu died before the Lord, when they offred strange fire before the Lord in the wildernesse of Sinai, and had no children: but Eleazar and Ithamar serued in ye Priestes office in the sight of Aaron their father.
And Nadab dieth — Abihu also — before Jehovah, in their bringing near strange fire before Jehovah, in the wilderness of Sinai, and sons they had not; and Eleazar — Ithamar also — acteth as priest in the presence of Aaron their father.
Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD when they offered strange fire before the LORD in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children. Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest’s office in the presence of Aaron their father.
And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest's office in the sight of Aaron their father.
Now Nadab and Abiu died, without children, when they offered strange fire before the Lord, in the desert of Sinai: and Eleazar and Ithamar performed the priestly office in the presence of Aaron their father.
But, while Yahweh was watching, Nadab and Abihu died in the Sinai Desert because they burned incense in a manner that was different from what Yahweh had commanded. They had no sons, so Eleazar and Ithamar were the only sons of Aaron who were left to be priests, along with their father Aaron.
Berean Amplified Bible — Numbers 3:4
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 3:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
נָדָ֣ב
וַ/אֲבִיה֣וּא
לִ/פְנֵ֣י
יְהוָ֡ה
בְּֽ/הַקְרִבָ/ם֩
אֵ֨שׁ
זָרָ֜ה
לִ/פְנֵ֤י
יְהוָה֙
בְּ/מִדְבַּ֣ר
סִינַ֔י
וּ/בָנִ֖ים
לֹא
הָי֣וּ
לָ/הֶ֑ם
וַ/יְכַהֵ֤ן
אֶלְעָזָר֙
וְ/אִ֣יתָמָ֔ר
עַל
פְּנֵ֖י
אַהֲרֹ֥ן
אֲבִי/הֶֽם
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
נָדָ֣ב
Nâdâb
H5070
Nadab
N-proper
וַ/אֲבִיה֣וּא
ʼĂbîyhûwʼ
H30
Abihu
Conj | N-proper
לִ/פְנֵ֣י
pânîym
H6440
face
Prep | N-cp
יְהוָ֡ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
בְּֽ/הַקְרִבָ/ם֩
qârab
H7126
to present
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
אֵ֨שׁ
ʼêsh
H784
fire
N-cs
זָרָ֜ה
zûwr
H2114
be a stranger
Adj
לִ/פְנֵ֤י
pânîym
H6440
face
Prep | N-cp
יְהוָה֙
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
בְּ/מִדְבַּ֣ר
midbâr
H4057
mouth
Prep | N-ms
סִינַ֔י
Çîynay
H5514
Sinai
N-proper
וּ/בָנִ֖ים
bên
H1121
son
Conj | N-mp
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
הָי֣וּ
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
לָ/הֶ֑ם
Prep | Suff
וַ/יְכַהֵ֤ן
kâhan
H3547
to minister
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶלְעָזָר֙
ʼElʻâzâr
H499
Eleazar
N-proper
וְ/אִ֣יתָמָ֔ר
ʼÎythâmâr
H385
Ithamar
Conj | N-proper
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
פְּנֵ֖י
pânîym
H6440
face
N-cp
אַהֲרֹ֥ן
ʼAhărôwn
H175
Aaron
N-proper
אֲבִי/הֶֽם
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Numbers 3:4
וַ/יָּ֣מָת
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
נָדָ֣ב
Nâdâb
H5070
"Nadab"
N-proper
Nadab was the name of several Israelites, including the son of Aaron who was struck dead by God. The name means 'generous' and is mentioned in the books of Chronicles and Leviticus.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Benjamin living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 1Ch.8.30; son of: Abiel (H0022) and Maacah (H4601N); brother of: Kish (H7027), Ner (H5369), Abdon (H5658J), Zur (H6698I), Baal (H1168B), Gedor (H1446I), Ahio (H0283I), Zecher (H2144) and Mikloth (H4732) § Nadab = "generous" 1) eldest son of Aaron by Elisheba; struck dead before the sanctuary in the wilderness for kindling the censers with strange fire 2) son of king Jeroboam I of the northern kingdom of Israel and king of Israel for 2 years before being slain by Baasha 3) a Jerahmeelite, son of Shammai, of the tribe of Judah 4) a son of Gibeon of the tribe of Benjamin
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Nadab. See also: Exodus 6:23; 1 Kings 15:25; 1 Chronicles 24:2.
וַ/אֲבִיה֣וּא
ʼĂbîyhûwʼ
H30
"Abihu"
Conj | N-proper
Abihu was a son of Aaron, a priest in the Bible. His name means 'he is my father'. Abihu made a mistake by offering wrong sacrifices to God and was punished. He's mentioned in Exodus 6:23.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.6.23; son of: Aaron (H0175) and Elisheba (H0472); brother of: Nadab (H5070), Eleazar (H0499) and Ithamar (H0385) § Abihu = "he is (my) father" a son of Aaron destroyed for sacrificing strange fire to God
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Abihu. See also: Exodus 6:23; Numbers 3:4; 1 Chronicles 24:2.
לִ/פְנֵ֣י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
Prep | N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
יְהוָ֡ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
בְּֽ/הַקְרִבָ/ם֩
qârab
H7126
"to present"
Prep | V-Hiphil-Inf-a | Suff
To approach or come near someone or something, often with a sense of purpose or intention, like Moses approaching the burning bush in Exodus 3:5. This word can also mean to bring someone or something near, as in presenting an offering to God.
Definition: : come/approach 1) to come near, approach, enter into, draw near 1a) (Qal) to approach, draw near 1b) (Niphal) to be brought near 1c) (Piel) to cause to approach, bring near, cause to draw near 1d) (Hiphil) to bring near, bring, present
Usage: Occurs in 263 OT verses. KJV: (cause to) approach, (cause to) bring (forth, near), (cause to) come (near, nigh), (cause to) draw near (nigh), go (near), be at hand, join, be near, offer, present, produce, make ready, stand, take. See also: Genesis 12:11; Leviticus 22:22; 1 Samuel 10:21.
אֵ֨שׁ
ʼêsh
H784
"fire"
N-cs
Fire is a powerful symbol in the Bible, representing both God's anger and his refining presence, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:24 and Malachi 3:2-3. It is also used for cooking and warmth. This concept is central to many biblical stories.
Definition: 1) fire 1a) fire, flames 1b) supernatural fire (accompanying theophany) 1c) fire (for cooking, roasting, parching) 1d) altar-fire 1e) God's anger (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: esh (אֶשָּׁא "fire" H0785)
Usage: Occurs in 348 OT verses. KJV: burning, fiery, fire, flaming, hot. See also: Genesis 15:17; Joshua 7:15; Psalms 11:6.
זָרָ֜ה
zûwr
H2114
"be a stranger"
Adj
This word has several meanings, including being a stranger or foreigner, like when Abraham lived in Egypt as a foreigner. It can also mean to commit adultery, highlighting the idea of turning aside from what is right and proper, as warned against in Proverbs 5.
Definition: 1) to be strange, be a stranger 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to become estranged 1a2) strange, another, stranger, foreigner, an enemy (participle) 1a3) strange woman, prostitute, harlot (meton) 1b) (Niphal) to be estranged 1c) (Hophal) to be a stranger, be one alienated
Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: (come from) another (man, place), fanner, go away, (e-) strange(-r, thing, woman). See also: Exodus 29:33; Proverbs 11:15; Psalms 44:21.
לִ/פְנֵ֤י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
Prep | N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
יְהוָה֙
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
בְּ/מִדְבַּ֣ר
midbâr
H4057
"mouth"
Prep | N-ms
The wilderness refers to a desert or open field, like the one the Israelites wandered in after leaving Egypt. It can also mean a place of solitude or a region without many people. In the Bible, it is often associated with the journey to the Promised Land.
Definition: 1) mouth 1a) mouth (as organ of speech)
Usage: Occurs in 257 OT verses. KJV: desert, south, speech, wilderness. See also: Genesis 14:6; Joshua 5:4; Psalms 29:8.
סִינַ֔י
Çîynay
H5514
"Sinai"
N-proper
Sinai refers to a mountain where Moses received the Law from God, located at the southern end of the Sinai peninsula. It is also known as the mountain of Arabia. This site is significant in the Bible as a place of revelation and covenant.
Definition: § Sinai = "thorny" the mountain where Moses received the Law from Jehovah; located at the southern end of the Sinai peninsula between the horns of the Red Sea; exact
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: Sinai. See also: Exodus 16:1; Numbers 1:1; Psalms 68:9.
וּ/בָנִ֖ים
bên
H1121
"son"
Conj | 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.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
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.
הָי֣וּ
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
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.
לָ/הֶ֑ם
""
Prep | Suff
וַ/יְכַהֵ֤ן
kâhan
H3547
"to minister"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
To minister means to serve as a priest, like when Aaron and his sons served in the tabernacle. It's about performing sacred duties and acting on behalf of God, as seen in the book of Leviticus.
Definition: 1) to act as a priest, minister in a priest's office 1a) (Piel) 1a1) to minister as a priest, serve as a priest 1a2) to be or become a priest 1a3) to play the priest
Usage: Occurs in 23 OT verses. KJV: deck, be (do the office of a, execute the, minister in the) priest('s office). See also: Exodus 28:1; Exodus 40:15; Isaiah 61:10.
אֶלְעָזָר֙
ʼElʻâzâr
H499
"Eleazar"
N-proper
Eleazar means God has helped, and was the name of several Israelites, including a high priest and one of David's warriors.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.42 § Eleazar = "God has helped" 1) the high priest son of Aaron 2) Abinadab's son who cared for the ark 3) the priest who rebuilt and dedicated the restored walls of Jerusalem in time of Ezra 4) one of David's mighty warriors 5) a Levite 6) one of the line of Parosh
Usage: Occurs in 70 OT verses. KJV: Eleazar. See also: Exodus 6:23; Numbers 31:51; Nehemiah 12:42.
וְ/אִ֣יתָמָ֔ר
ʼÎythâmâr
H385
"Ithamar"
Conj | N-proper
Ithamar was a son of Aaron, a leader in the tribe of Levi, first mentioned in Exodus 6:23. He was the youngest of four brothers, including Nadab, Abihu, and Eleazar. His name means 'coast of palms'.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.6.23; son of: Aaron (H0175) and Elisheba (H0472); brother of: Nadab (H5070), Abihu (H0030) and Eleazar (H0499) § Ithamar = "coast of palms" fourth and youngest son of Aaron
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Ithamar. See also: Exodus 6:23; Numbers 7:8; Ezra 8:2.
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.
פְּנֵ֖י
pânîym
H6440
"face"
N-cp
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
אַהֲרֹ֥ן
ʼAhărôwn
H175
"Aaron"
N-proper
Aaron was the brother of Moses and the first high priest of the Israelites. He was a leader in the Exodus from Egypt and played a key role in the early history of the Israelites. His story is told in Exodus and Leviticus.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.4.14; son of: Amram (H6019) and Jochebed (H3115); brother of: Moses (H4872) and Miriam (H4813); married to Elisheba (H0472); father of: Nadab (H5070), Abihu (H0030), Eleazar (H0499) and Ithamar (H0385) Also named: Aarōn (Ἀαρών "Aaron" G0002) § Aaron = "light bringer" brother of Moses, a Levite and the first high priest
Usage: Occurs in 328 OT verses. KJV: Aaron. See also: Exodus 4:14; Exodus 34:31; Numbers 3:39.
אֲבִי/הֶֽם
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
Study Notes — Numbers 3:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Numbers 3:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Numbers 3:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 3:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
- Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
- Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
- Cambridge Bible on Numbers 3:4
- Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
- Sermons on Numbers 3:4
Context — The Sons of Aaron
2These are the names of the sons of Aaron: Nadab the firstborn, then Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.
3These were Aaron’s sons, the anointed priests, who were ordained to serve as priests.
4Nadab and Abihu, however, died in the presence of the LORD when they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD in the Wilderness of Sinai. And since they had no sons, only Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests during the lifetime of their father Aaron.
5Then the LORD said to Moses, 6“Bring the tribe of Levi and present them to Aaron the priest to assist him.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leviticus 10:1–2 | Now Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense, and offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died in the presence of the LORD. |
| 2 | Numbers 26:61 | but Nadab and Abihu died when they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD. |
Numbers 3:4 Summary
This verse tells us about two of Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, who died because they did not follow God's instructions when they offered a sacrifice. As a result, their brothers Eleazar and Ithamar took on the role of serving as priests. This reminds us that God is holy and we must approach Him with reverence and obedience, as seen in Leviticus 10:1-3 and Hebrews 12:28-29. We can learn from this example to always seek to please God and follow His commands, just like Eleazar and Ithamar did.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Nadab and Abihu?
Nadab and Abihu died in the presence of the Lord when they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord in the Wilderness of Sinai, as recorded in Numbers 3:4 and also in Leviticus 10:1-2, which provides more details about the incident.
Why did only Eleazar and Ithamar serve as priests?
Only Eleazar and Ithamar served as priests during the lifetime of their father Aaron because Nadab and Abihu had no sons, as stated in Numbers 3:4, highlighting the importance of lineage in the priesthood.
What is the significance of the Wilderness of Sinai in this context?
The Wilderness of Sinai is significant because it was the location where the Israelites received the Law and where the incident with Nadab and Abihu occurred, demonstrating God's holiness and the importance of following His instructions, as seen in Exodus 19:1-25 and Numbers 3:4.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of priesthood in the Bible?
This verse contributes to the theme of priesthood by highlighting the importance of obedience and the consequences of disobedience, as seen in the contrast between Nadab and Abihu's actions and the faithful service of Eleazar and Ithamar, which is also reflected in Hebrews 5:1-6, where the author discusses the qualifications and responsibilities of priests.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I can ensure that my worship and service to God are acceptable and pleasing to Him, rather than 'unauthorized' like the fire offered by Nadab and Abihu?
- How can I learn from the example of Nadab and Abihu to avoid similar mistakes in my own life and ministry?
- In what ways can I support and encourage those who are serving in leadership roles, like Eleazar and Ithamar, who took on additional responsibilities after the loss of their brothers?
- What does this verse teach me about the importance of following God's instructions and respecting His holiness, and how can I apply this to my daily life?
Gill's Exposition on Numbers 3:4
And Nadab and Abihu died before the Lord,...., By flaming fire, as the Targum of Jonathan adds, see Leviticus 10:2; and so were not alive at this time when the account of the priests and Levites was
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 3:4
And these are the names of the sons of Aaron; Nadab the firstborn, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. These are the names. All the sons of Aaron, four in number, were consecrated to minister in the priest's office.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
In the time of Aaron’ s life, as this phrase is taken, ; see also ,17; and under their father’ s inspection and direction, and as their father’ s servants or ministers in the priest’ s office; for servants are oft described by this phrase of being, or standing, or serving in the sight or presence, we of their master.
Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
Numbers 3:4 And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest’ s office in the sight of Aaron their father.Ver. 4. And Nadab and Abihu.] Such a cross had David in his two eldest, Amnon and Absalom.
Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
(4) Died before the Lord.—The account is given in Leviticus 10:1-2, where the same expression “before the Lord” is used both in regard to the offering of strange fire by Nadab and Abihu, and also in regard to their death. And they had no children.—To die childless was regarded not only as a reproach, but also as a judgment. This was especially the case in regard to Nadab and Abihu, inasmuch as the sons of one, or of both (as was the case in regard to the sons of Eleazar and of Ithamar), would have succeeded to the high priesthood.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
Verse 4. Nadab and Abihu died] See the notes on Leviticus 10:1-5.
Cambridge Bible on Numbers 3:4
4. The incident here referred to is related in Leviticus 10:1-7. The meaning of ‘strange fire’ is uncertain. Either the incense which they burnt was not made in accordance with the divine prescription (given in Exodus 30:34-38). or the fire was not taken from the proper place—the altar of burnt-offering. ‘Strange’ means ‘not in accordance with the regular ritual’; see n. on Numbers 1:51. they had no children] The point of this lies in the fact that after the exile all the priestly families called themselves ‘sons of Aaron,’ and traced their descent through Eleazar or Ithamar (see p. xvi).
Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 3:4
4. Nadab and Abihu — The tragic end of these sacrilegious priests is detailed in full in Leviticus 10:1-7, where see an extended annotation. They had but just been inducted into office.
Sermons on Numbers 3:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(K-Char-03) Strange Fire by Art Katz | In this sermon transcript, T. Austin Sparks discusses the concept of false life and false fire. He emphasizes the difference between spiritual eternal life and soul life, stating t |
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The Spirit of Fire by Samuel Chadwick | Samuel Chadwick preaches about the significance of fire as a symbol of God's presence and approval, emphasizing the importance of true worship and devotion. He warns against offeri |
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A Warning to Professors by Jonathan Edwards | In this sermon by Jonathan Edwards, he addresses those who attend religious ordinances but continue to engage in known sins. He warns them about the mockery they are guilty of by p |
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A Silent Church Amidst a Sinful Nation by E.A. Johnston | In this sermon, the speaker highlights the current state of the Christian Church, describing it as helpless and facing powers of darkness. He emphasizes that the Church has substit |
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God's Work in the Darkness by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that entertainment is a substitute for true joy and that the glory of God needs to be restored. He mentions the importance of being anointed |
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The Solemn Side of Worship by J. Glyn Owen | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Aaron and his two sons who were struck down by God's judgment. The speaker emphasizes that God's judgment was not disproportionat |
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An Introduction to the Day of Atonement by Ron Bailey | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the tragedy that occurred in one of the leading families of the Israelites right at the beginning of their journey as a nation of priests. T |