Numbers 4:15

Numbers 4:15 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all their equipment, as soon as the camp is ready to move, the Kohathites shall come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy objects, or they will die. These are the transportation duties of the Kohathites regarding the Tent of Meeting.

King James Version KJV

And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, as the camp is to set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.

American Standard Version ASV

And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the furniture of the sanctuary, as the camp is set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch the sanctuary, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tent of meeting.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And after the holy place and all its vessels have been covered up by Aaron and his sons, when the tents of the people go forward, the sons of Kohath are to come and take it up; but the holy things may not be touched by them for fear of death.

Free Bible Version FBV

Once Aaron and his sons have finished covering these holy things and all the equipment connected with them, when the camp is ready to move, the priests of the Kohath family are to come and carry them. But they are forbidden to touch anything holy, otherwise they'll die. These are their responsibilities for moving the Tent of Meeting.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And when Aaron and his sonnes haue made an ende of couering the Sanctuarie, and al the instruments of the Sanctuarie, at the remouing of the host, afterward the sonnes of Kohath shall come to beare it, but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they dye. This is the charge of the sonnes of Kohath in the Tabernacle of the Congregation.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

'And Aaron hath finished — his sons also — covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, in the journeying of the camp, and afterwards do the sons of Kohath come in to bear [it], and they do not come unto the holy thing, that they have died; these [things are] the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tent of meeting.

World English Bible WEB

“When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all the furniture of the sanctuary, as the camp moves forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to carry it; but they shall not touch the sanctuary, lest they die. The sons of Kohath shall carry these things belonging to the Tent of Meeting.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, as the camp is to move forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it : but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And when Aaron and his sons have wrapped up the sanctuary and the vessels thereof at the removing of the camp, then shall the sons of Caath enter in to carry the things wrapped up: and they shall not touch the vessels of the sanctuary, lest they die. These are the burdens of the sons of Caath: in the tabernacle of the covenant:

Translation for Translators T4T

“Then Aaron and his sons have finished covering all these sacred things, the Israeli people will be ready to move to a new location. The descendants of Kohath must come and carry all the sacred things to the next place where you Israelis will set up your tents. But the descendants of Kohath must not touch any of these sacred items, because they will immediately die if they touch them. They are the ones who will carry these things, but they must not touch them.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Numbers 4:15

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 4:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וְ/כִלָּ֣ה אַֽהֲרֹן וּ֠/בָנָי/ו לְ/כַסֹּ֨ת אֶת הַ/קֹּ֜דֶשׁ וְ/אֶת כָּל כְּלֵ֣י הַ/קֹּדֶשׁ֮ בִּ/נְסֹ֣עַ הַֽ/מַּחֲנֶה֒ וְ/אַחֲרֵי כֵ֗ן יָבֹ֤אוּ בְנֵי קְהָת֙ לָ/שֵׂ֔את וְ/לֹֽא יִגְּע֥וּ אֶל הַ/קֹּ֖דֶשׁ וָ/מֵ֑תוּ אֵ֛לֶּה מַשָּׂ֥א בְנֵֽי קְהָ֖ת בְּ/אֹ֥הֶל מוֹעֵֽד

וְ/כִלָּ֣ה kâlâh H3615 to end Conj | V-Piel-3ms

אַֽהֲרֹן ʼAhărôwn H175 Aaron N-proper

וּ֠/בָנָי/ו bên H1121 son Conj | N-mp | Suff

לְ/כַסֹּ֨ת kâçâh H3680 to cover Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/קֹּ֜דֶשׁ qôdesh H6944 Holy Place Art | N-ms

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. Conj | DirObjM

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

כְּלֵ֣י kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil N-mp

הַ/קֹּדֶשׁ֮ qôdesh H6944 Holy Place Art | N-ms

בִּ/נְסֹ֣עַ nâçaʻ H5265 to set out Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

הַֽ/מַּחֲנֶה֒ machăneh H4264 camp Art | N-cs

וְ/אַחֲרֵי ʼachar H310 after Conj | Prep

כֵ֗ן kên H3651 right Adv

יָבֹ֤אוּ bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

בְנֵי bên H1121 son N-mp

קְהָת֙ Qᵉhâth H6955 Kohath N-proper

לָ/שֵׂ֔את nâsâʼ H5375 to lift Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

יִגְּע֥וּ nâgaʻ H5060 to touch V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

הַ/קֹּ֖דֶשׁ qôdesh H6944 Holy Place Art | N-ms

וָ/מֵ֑תוּ mûwth H4191 to die Conj | V-Qal-3cp

אֵ֛לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Pron

מַשָּׂ֥א massâʼ H4853 burden N-ms

בְנֵֽי bên H1121 son N-mp

קְהָ֖ת Qᵉhâth H6955 Kohath N-proper

בְּ/אֹ֥הֶל ʼôhel H168 tent Prep | N-ms

מוֹעֵֽד môwʻêd H4150 meeting N-ms

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Numbers 4:15

וְ/כִלָּ֣ה kâlâh H3615 "to end" Conj | V-Piel-3ms

This Hebrew word means to finish or end something, like completing a task or using up a resource, as seen in Genesis 2:2 where God finished creating the heavens and earth.

Definition: : finish 1) to accomplish, cease, consume, determine, end, fail, finish, be complete, be accomplished, be ended, be at an end, be finished, be spent 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be complete, be at an end 1a2) to be completed, be finished 1a3) to be accomplished, be fulfilled 1a4) to be determined, be plotted (bad sense) 1a5) to be spent, be used up 1a6) to waste away, be exhausted, fail 1a7) to come to an end, vanish, perish, be destroyed 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to complete, bring to an end, finish 1b2) to complete (a period of time) 1b3) to finish (doing a thing) 1b4) to make an end, end 1b5) to accomplish, fulfil, bring to pass 1b6) to accomplish, determine (in thought) 1b7) to put an end to, cause to cease 1b8) to cause to fail, exhaust, use up, spend 1b9) to destroy, exterminate 1c) (Pual) to be finished, be ended, be completed

Usage: Occurs in 199 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, cease, consume (away), determine, destroy (utterly), be (when... were) done, (be an) end (of), expire, (cause to) fail, faint, finish, fulfil, [idiom] fully, [idiom] have, leave (off), long, bring to pass, wholly reap, make clean riddance, spend, quite take away, waste. See also: Genesis 2:1; 2 Chronicles 29:17; Psalms 18:38.

אַֽהֲרֹן 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.

וּ֠/בָנָי/ו bên H1121 "son" Conj | N-mp | Suff

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.

לְ/כַסֹּ֨ת kâçâh H3680 "to cover" Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a

To cover something means to fill up hollows or hide something from view, as seen in many biblical stories. This verb is used in various forms throughout the Bible, such as to cover oneself with clothing or to conceal something for protection. It can also mean to overwhelm or spread over something.

Definition: 1) to cover, conceal, hide 1a) (Qal) conceal, covered (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be covered 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to cover, clothe 1c2) to cover, conceal 1c3) to cover (for protection) 1c4) to cover over, spread over 1c5) to cover, overwhelm 1d) (Pual) 1d1) to be covered 1d2) to be clothed 1e) (Hithpael) to cover oneself, clothe oneself

Usage: Occurs in 149 OT verses. KJV: clad self, close, clothe, conceal, cover (self), (flee to) hide, overwhelm. Compare H3780 (כָּשָׂה). See also: Genesis 7:19; Psalms 32:1; Psalms 32:5.

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.

הַ/קֹּ֜דֶשׁ qôdesh H6944 "Holy Place" Art | N-ms

The Holy Place refers to a sacred or set-apart area, like the temple in Jerusalem. It is a place of sanctity and holiness, where God is worshipped. The Bible describes it as a place of reverence and awe.

Definition: This name means apartness, holiness, sacredness Also named: hagion (ἅγιον "Holy Place" G0039)

Usage: Occurs in 380 OT verses. KJV: consecrated (thing), dedicated (thing), hallowed (thing), holiness, ([idiom] most) holy ([idiom] day, portion, thing), saint, sanctuary. See also: Exodus 3:5; Leviticus 23:4; 1 Chronicles 26:26.

וְ/אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." Conj | DirObjM

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.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

כְּלֵ֣י kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" N-mp

This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.

Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed

Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.

הַ/קֹּדֶשׁ֮ qôdesh H6944 "Holy Place" Art | N-ms

Definition: This name means apartness, holiness, sacredness Also named: hagion (ἅγιον "Holy Place" G0039)

בִּ/נְסֹ֣עַ nâçaʻ H5265 "to set out" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

In the Bible, this word means to set out or start a journey, like the Israelites departing from Egypt, or to remove something, as in pulling up tent pins.

Definition: 1) to pull out, pull up, set out, journey, remove, set forward, depart 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pull out or up 1a2) to set out, depart 1a3) to journey, march 1a4) to set forth (of wind) 1b) (Niphal) to be pulled up, be removed, be plucked up 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to set out, lead out, cause to spring up 1c2) to remove, quarry

Usage: Occurs in 140 OT verses. KJV: cause to blow, bring, get, (make to) go (away, forth, forward, onward, out), (take) journey, march, remove, set aside (forward), [idiom] still, be on his (go their) way. See also: Genesis 11:2; Numbers 33:9; Psalms 78:26.

הַֽ/מַּחֲנֶה֒ machăneh H4264 "camp" Art | N-cs

This word refers to a camp or army, like the Israelites' encampments in the wilderness. It can also mean a group of people or animals. The KJV translates it as 'army, band, or camp'.

Definition: 1) encampment, camp 1a) camp, place of encampment 1b) camp of armed host, army camp 1c) those who encamp, company, body of people

Usage: Occurs in 190 OT verses. KJV: army, band, battle, camp, company, drove, host, tents. See also: Genesis 32:3; Joshua 6:18; Psalms 27:3.

וְ/אַחֲרֵי ʼachar H310 "after" Conj | Prep

Achar means backwards or after, used to describe something that happens later or in the rear. It is used in various senses in the Bible, including in 1 Kings 12:18.

Definition: 1) after the following part, behind (of place), hinder, afterwards (of time) 1a) as an adverb 1a1) behind (of place) 1a2) afterwards (of time) 1b) as a preposition 1b1) behind, after (of place) 1b2) after (of time) 1b3) besides 1c) as a conjunction 1c) after that 1d) as a substantive 1d1) hinder part 1e) with other prepositions 1e1) from behind 1e2) from following after

Usage: Occurs in 664 OT verses. KJV: after (that, -ward), again, at, away from, back (from, -side), behind, beside, by, follow (after, -ing), forasmuch, from, hereafter, hinder end, [phrase] out (over) live, [phrase] persecute, posterity, pursuing, remnant, seeing, since, thence(-forth), when, with. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 18:2; Joshua 8:14.

כֵ֗ן kên H3651 "right" Adv

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable

Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.

יָבֹ֤אוּ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

בְנֵי bên H1121 "son" N-mp

Definition: : child/son

קְהָת֙ Qᵉhâth H6955 "Kohath" N-proper

Kohath was a man from the tribe of Levi, son of Levi and brother of Gershon and Merari, first mentioned in Genesis 46:11. He was the father of Amram and others. His name means assembly.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Gen.46.11; son of: Levi (H3878); brother of: Gershon (H1648), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115); father of: Amram (H6019), Izhar (H3324), Hebron (H2275B) and Uzziel (H5816) Also named: qo.ha.ti (קְהָתִי "Kohathite" H6956) § Kohath = "assembly" the 2nd of the 3 sons of Levi and progenitor of a family in the tribe of Levi

Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: Kohath. See also: Genesis 46:11; Joshua 21:5; 1 Chronicles 23:12.

לָ/שֵׂ֔את nâsâʼ H5375 "to lift" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to lift or raise something, and it's used in many ways, like lifting a burden or raising someone's status. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often talking about God lifting people up. It's about supporting or carrying something or someone.

Definition: : raise/take_up 1) to lift, bear up, carry, take 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lift, lift up 1a2) to bear, carry, support, sustain, endure 1a3) to take, take away, carry off, forgive 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be lifted up, be exalted 1b2) to lift oneself up, rise up 1b3) to be borne, be carried 1b4) to be taken away, be carried off, be swept away 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to lift up, exalt, support, aid, assist 1c2) to desire, long (fig.) 1c3) to carry, bear continuously 1c4) to take, take away 1d) (Hithpael) to lift oneself up, exalt oneself 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to cause one to bear (iniquity) 1e2) to cause to bring, have brought

Usage: Occurs in 609 OT verses. KJV: accept, advance, arise, (able to, (armor), suffer to) bear(-er, up), bring (forth), burn, carry (away), cast, contain, desire, ease, exact, exalt (self), extol, fetch, forgive, furnish, further, give, go on, help, high, hold up, honorable ([phrase] man), lade, lay, lift (self) up, lofty, marry, magnify, [idiom] needs, obtain, pardon, raise (up), receive, regard, respect, set (up), spare, stir up, [phrase] swear, take (away, up), [idiom] utterly, wear, yield. See also: Genesis 4:13; Numbers 4:2; 1 Samuel 14:3.

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.

יִגְּע֥וּ nâgaʻ H5060 "to touch" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

This Hebrew word means to touch or reach something, and can also mean to strike or defeat someone. It is used in Exodus to describe God's power and in Psalms to describe human emotions. The word has various translations, including beat, bring, and plague.

Definition: 1) to touch, reach, strike 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to touch 1a2) to strike 1a3) to reach, extend to 1a4) to be stricken 1a4a) stricken (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be stricken, be defeated 1c) (Piel) to strike 1d) (Pual) to be stricken (by disease) 1e) (Hiphil) to cause to touch, reach, approach, arrive 1e1) to cause to touch, apply 1e2) to reach, extend, attain, arrive, come 1e3) to approach (of time) 1e4) to befall (of fate)

Usage: Occurs in 142 OT verses. KJV: beat, ([idiom] be able to) bring (down), cast, come (nigh), draw near (nigh), get up, happen, join, near, plague, reach (up), smite, strike, touch. See also: Genesis 3:3; 2 Chronicles 3:12; Psalms 32:6.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

הַ/קֹּ֖דֶשׁ qôdesh H6944 "Holy Place" Art | N-ms

Definition: This name means apartness, holiness, sacredness Also named: hagion (ἅγιον "Holy Place" G0039)

וָ/מֵ֑תוּ mûwth H4191 "to die" Conj | V-Qal-3cp

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.

אֵ֛לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 "these" Pron

This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.

Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)

Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.

מַשָּׂ֥א massâʼ H4853 "burden" N-ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to a message from God, like a prophecy or oracle, often given through a prophet. It can also mean a burden or a song. It appears in books like Isaiah and Ezekiel, where God speaks through prophets to His people.

Definition: 1) load, bearing, tribute, burden, lifting 1a) load, burden 1b) lifting, uplifting, that to which the soul lifts itself up 1c) bearing, carrying 1d) tribute, that which is carried or brought or borne

Usage: Occurs in 59 OT verses. KJV: burden, carry away, prophecy, [idiom] they set, song, tribute. See also: Exodus 23:5; Isaiah 13:1; Psalms 38:5.

בְנֵֽי bên H1121 "son" N-mp

Definition: : child/son

קְהָ֖ת Qᵉhâth H6955 "Kohath" N-proper

Kohath was a man from the tribe of Levi, son of Levi and brother of Gershon and Merari, first mentioned in Genesis 46:11. He was the father of Amram and others. His name means assembly.

Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: Kohath. See also: Genesis 46:11; Joshua 21:5; 1 Chronicles 23:12.

בְּ/אֹ֥הֶל ʼôhel H168 "tent" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for a tent, often used to describe the tabernacle or a nomad's home. In Exodus 33:7-11, it refers to the sacred tent where God meets with Moses.

Definition: : tent 1) tent 1a) nomad's tent, and thus symbolic of wilderness life, transience 1b) dwelling, home, habitation 1c) the sacred tent of Jehovah (the tabernacle) Also means: o.hel (אֹ֫הֶל ": home" H0168H)

Usage: Occurs in 314 OT verses. KJV: covering, (dwelling) (place), home, tabernacle, tent. See also: Genesis 4:20; Leviticus 14:23; Joshua 22:4.

מוֹעֵֽד môwʻêd H4150 "meeting" N-ms

This Hebrew word refers to a meeting or appointed time, often for a sacred season or festival, like the tent of meeting in Exodus. It can also mean an assembly or congregation. In the Bible, it is used to describe the Israelites' gatherings and celebrations.

Definition: : meeting 1) appointed place, appointed time, meeting 1a) appointed time 1a1) appointed time (general) 1a2) sacred season, set feast, appointed season 1b) appointed meeting 1c) appointed place 1d) appointed sign or signal 1e) tent of meeting

Usage: Occurs in 213 OT verses. KJV: appointed (sign, time), (place of, solemn) assembly, congregation, (set, solemn) feast, (appointed, due) season, solemn(-ity), synogogue, (set) time (appointed). See also: Genesis 1:14; Numbers 4:31; Psalms 74:4.

Study Notes — Numbers 4:15

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Numbers 4:15 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Numbers 4:15
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 4:15
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 4:15
Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 4:15
Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 4:15
Cambridge Bible on Numbers 4:15
Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 4:15
Sermons on Numbers 4:15

Context — The Duties of the Kohathites

13Then they shall remove the ashes from the bronze altar, spread a purple cloth over it, 14and place on it all the vessels used to serve there: the firepans, meat forks, shovels, and sprinkling bowls—all the equipment of the altar. They are to spread over it a covering of fine leather and insert the poles.

15When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all their equipment, as soon as the camp is ready to move, the Kohathites shall come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy objects, or they will die. These are the transportation duties of the Kohathites regarding the Tent of Meeting.

16Eleazar son of Aaron the priest shall oversee the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the daily grain offering, and the anointing oil. He has oversight of the entire tabernacle and everything in it, including the holy objects and their utensils.” 17Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron,

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 6:6–7	When they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen had stumbled. And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down on the spot for his irreverence, and he died there beside the ark of God.
2	Numbers 7:9	But he did not give any to the Kohathites, since they were to carry on their shoulders the holy objects for which they were responsible.
3	Deuteronomy 31:9	So Moses wrote down this law and gave it to the priests, the sons of Levi, who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to all the elders of Israel.
4	1 Chronicles 13:9–10	When they came to the threshing floor of Chidon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark, because the oxen had stumbled. And the anger of the LORD burned against Uzzah, and He struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God.
5	Numbers 10:21	Then the Kohathites set out, transporting the holy objects; the tabernacle was to be set up before their arrival.
6	1 Samuel 6:19	But God struck down some of the people of Beth-shemesh because they looked inside the ark of the LORD. He struck down seventy men, and the people mourned because the LORD had struck them with a great slaughter.
7	1 Chronicles 15:2	Then David said, “No one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, because the LORD has chosen them to carry the ark of the LORD and to minister before Him forever.”
8	Hebrews 12:18–29	For you have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom, and storm; to a trumpet blast or to a voice that made its hearers beg that no further word be spoken. For they could not bear what was commanded: “If even an animal touches the mountain, it must be stoned.” The sight was so terrifying that even Moses said, “I am trembling with fear.” Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven. You have come to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. See to it that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if the people did not escape when they refused Him who warned them on earth, how much less will we escape if we reject Him who warns us from heaven? At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well.” The words “Once more” signify the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. “For our God is a consuming fire.”
9	Numbers 3:30–31	and the leader of the families of the Kohathites was Elizaphan son of Uzziel. Their duties were the ark, the table, the lampstand, the altars, the articles of the sanctuary used with them, and the curtain—all the service for these items.
10	Joshua 4:10	Now the priests who carried the ark remained standing in the middle of the Jordan until the people had completed everything the LORD had commanded Joshua to tell them, just as Moses had directed Joshua. The people hurried across,

Numbers 4:15 Summary

This verse is talking about how the Kohathites were responsible for carrying the holy objects when the Israelite camp moved, but they were not allowed to touch these objects because they were special and only the priests could handle them, as seen in Numbers 4:15. This shows us that God is a holy God who deserves our reverence and respect, and that He has assigned different roles and tasks to each of us, just like He did with the Kohathites and the priests (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). We can learn from this verse to be faithful and obedient in our own tasks and roles, and to trust that God is working through us, even when our tasks seem small or unimportant (Matthew 25:14-30). By doing so, we can show our reverence and respect for God and His plans for us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Kohathites' role in transporting the holy objects?

The Kohathites were assigned to carry the holy objects, but they were not allowed to touch them, as this was a privileged task reserved for the priests, as seen in Numbers 4:15, emphasizing the importance of reverence and obedience to God's instructions, similar to the instructions given in Exodus 25:14-15.

Why were the Kohathites not allowed to touch the holy objects?

The Kohathites were not allowed to touch the holy objects because they were not consecrated for this task, and touching the holy objects could result in death, as stated in Numbers 4:15, highlighting the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands, as also seen in Numbers 3:10 and Numbers 18:7.

What does this verse reveal about the organization and structure of the Israelite camp?

This verse shows that the Israelite camp was highly organized, with specific tasks assigned to different groups, such as the Kohathites, and that the priests, like Aaron and his sons, played a crucial role in the transportation and care of the holy objects, as also mentioned in Numbers 3:6-10 and Numbers 4:1-14.

How does this verse relate to the broader theme of worship and reverence in the Bible?

This verse emphasizes the importance of reverence and obedience in worship, as seen in the careful handling of the holy objects, and this theme is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in Leviticus 10:1-3 and Hebrews 12:28-29, which stress the need for reverence and respect in worship.

Reflection Questions

What can I learn from the Kohathites' experience about the importance of reverence and obedience in my own life?
How can I apply the principle of assigned tasks and roles, as seen in this verse, to my own life and ministry?
What does this verse teach me about the significance of the holy objects and the tabernacle in the Israelite worship, and how can I apply this to my understanding of worship today?
In what ways can I, like the Kohathites, faithfully carry out the tasks assigned to me, even if they seem mundane or unglamorous, and trust that God is working through me?

Gill's Exposition on Numbers 4:15

And when Aaron and his sons had made an end of covering the sanctuary,.... Not the holy place, nor the most holy place, for these were not covered by them; but "the holy things" in them, as the

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 4:15

This shall be the service of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation, about the most holy things: This shall be the service ... The Kohathites are mentioned first, from their close

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 4:15

The sons of Kohath shall bear it, to wit upon their shoulders, not upon carts or waggons, as appears from , the neglect of which order did provoke the Lord, ,7 15:12, &c. Afterward the priests themselves, being multiplied, carried these things, as appears from 8:33 , though the Levites also were not excluded, . They shall not to any holy thing; immediately, or before they be covered. Lest they die, as some did for that sin. See ,7.

Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 4:15

Numbers 4:15 And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, as the camp is to set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear [it]: but they shall not touch [any] holy thing, lest they die. These [things are] the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.Ver. 15. Lest they die.] As Uzzah did. The burden of the sons of Kohath.] Who, as they had the honos, so the onus See Numbers 4:1. “ Fructus honos oneris, fructus honoris onus. ”

Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 4:15

(15) And all the vessels of the sanctuary.—No mention is here made of the laver (Exodus 30:18). The LXX. and the Samaritan text supply a statement respecting the covering and conveyance of the brazen laver. The clause in the LXX. is as follows :—“And they shall take a purple cloth, and cover the laver and its foot (or base), and they shall put it into a blue cover of skin, and put it on bars.” There is no sufficient ground. however, for supposing that the present Hebrew text is deficient in this place; and it seems more probable to suppose that the laver was not to be covered during its transport. After that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it.—Better, to bear, or carry—viz., the whole of the vessels of ministry which had been previously enumerated. The distinction between the service of the priests and that of the Levites in regard to the removal of the Tabernacle and its furniture is here clearly marked. But they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die.—The word which is rendered “any holy thing” may here, as elsewhere, denote the sanctuary. This injunction is repeated in Numbers 18:3. We find in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 an instance of the fatal result of the violation of this command by Uzzah, who being, as is most probable, a Levite, and of the family of Kohath, ought to have been acquainted with the law respecting the removal of the Ark. It is obvious that the Kohathites, as the immediate assistants of the priests, in regard to the vessels of the Sanctuary, were specially exposed to the risk of violating the law by touching the most holy things.

Cambridge Bible on Numbers 4:15

15. they shall not touch the sanctuary] Better the holy things, as in R.V. marg. The Heb. word is strictly a singular abstract substantive, ‘the sacredness,’ which is here employed to denote the whole collection of sacred objects.

Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 4:15

15. Covering the sanctuary — Since none but Aaron could enter into the holy of holies under the penalty of death, we are to understand, by the sons of Aaron assisting in preparing the sanctuary and

Sermons on Numbers 4:15

	Sermon	Description
	Steadying the Ark of God by Vance Havner	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of true worship and the need for personal responsibility in carrying out God's work. He criticizes the idea of putting on a r
	Burdens & Gifts by Gareth Evans	In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a story from the book of Kings about a mother bird teaching her baby bird to fly. He uses this story as a parable to illustrate the co
	Uzzah and the Ark of God by Richard Owen Roberts	This sermon emphasizes the importance of doing things God's way and humbling ourselves before Him. It highlights the need for true preaching that moves hearts, not just teaching, a
	Soaring 2 - Burdens & Gifts by Gareth Evans	In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a story from the book of Kings in the Old Testament. The story is about a little bundle that learns to fly and soar without moving its
	The Ark of God by Leonard Ravenhill	This sermon delves into the story of David and the ark of God, highlighting the consequences of mishandling holy things, the importance of obedience over sacrifice, and the need fo
	The Threshing Floor of Ornan by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine and real relationship with God. He highlights the need for believers to have a solid foundation in their f
	David and the Ark of God - God's Way by Major Ian Thomas	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the spiritual decline in the time of Eli, the last of the judges. Eli had ordained his wicked sons into the ministry, and they treated him wi