Numbers 17:3
And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers.
Original Language Analysis
וְאֵת֙
H853
וְאֵת֙
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
שֵׁ֣ם
name
H8034
שֵׁ֣ם
name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
2 of 13
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
תִּכְתֹּ֖ב
And thou shalt write
H3789
תִּכְתֹּ֖ב
And thou shalt write
Strong's:
H3789
Word #:
4 of 13
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
5 of 13
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
H4294
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
6 of 13
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
כִּ֚י
H3588
כִּ֚י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
8 of 13
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
H4294
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
9 of 13
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
אֶחָ֔ד
for one
H259
אֶחָ֔ד
for one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
10 of 13
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
לְרֹ֖אשׁ
shall be for the head
H7218
לְרֹ֖אשׁ
shall be for the head
Strong's:
H7218
Word #:
11 of 13
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
Historical Context
The 'testimony' referred to the tablets of the law kept in the ark (Exodus 25:16). Placing the rods there connected this test to covenant relationship—God's choice of priestly line was not arbitrary preference but part of His covenant structure for Israel's worship and access to His presence.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you ensure that major decisions and confirmations happen 'before the Lord'?
- What practices help you test all things in God's presence rather than merely seeking human approval?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses placed the rods 'before the testimony' in the tabernacle—the most holy place where God met with Israel. This location ensured that the test occurred in God's presence, under His direct witness. The outcome would be indisputable because it occurred at the very throne of divine authority. All spiritual authentication must happen in God's presence, not through human validation.