Bible Commentaries

Nu 4:1-49.

OF THE LEVITES' SERVICE.

2, 3. sons of Kohath, from thirty years old and upward--This age was specifically fixed (see on

Nu 8:24)

as the full maturity of bodily energy to perform the laborious duties assigned them in the wilderness, as well as of mental activity to assist in the management of the sacred services. And it was the period of life at which John the Baptist and Christ entered on their respective ministries.

even unto fifty--The term prescribed for active duty was a period of twenty years, at the end of which they were exempted from the physical labors of the office, though still expected to attend in the tabernacle

(Nu 8:26).

all that enter into the host--so called from their number, the order and discipline maintained through their ranks, and their special duty as guards of the tabernacle. The Hebrew word, however, signifies also a station or office; and hence the passage may be rendered, "All that enter into the sacerdotal office"

(Nu 4:23).

4-15. This shall be the service of the sons of Kohath, &c.--They are mentioned first, from their close connection with Aaron; and the special department of duty assigned to them during the journeyings of Israel accorded with the charge they had received of the precious contents of the tabernacle. But these were to be previously covered by the common priests, who, as well as the high priest, were admitted on such necessary occasions into the holy place. This was an exception to the general rule, which prohibited the entrance of any but the high priest. But when the cloud removed from the tabernacle, the sanctuary might be entered by the common priests, as to them was reserved the exclusive privilege of packing the sacred utensils; and it was not till the holy things were thus ready for carriage, that the Kohathites were allowed to approach.

5. covering veil--the inner veil, which separated the holy from the most holy place. (See on

Ex 36:35).

6. covering of badgers' skins--(See on

Ex 25:5).

The covering, however, referred to was not that of the tabernacle, but one made for the special purpose of protecting the ark.

put in the staves--These golden staves were now taken out. (See on

Ex 25:15,

compared with

1Ki 8:8).

The Hebrew word rendered "put in," signifies also "dispose," and probably refers here to their insertion through the openings in the coverings made for receiving them, to preserve them from the touch of the carriers as well as from the influence of the weather. It is worthy of notice that the coverings did not consist of canvas or coarse tarpaulin, but of a kind which united beauty with decency.

7. continual showbread--Though the people were in the wilderness fed upon manna, the sacred loaves were constantly made of corn, which was probably raised in small quantities from the verdant patches of the desert.

10. a bar--or bier, formed of two poles fastened by two cross pieces and borne by two men, after the fashion of a sedan chair.

12. instruments of ministry--the official dress of the priests

(Ex 31:10).