Numbers 2:33
But the Levites were not numbered among the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Original Language Analysis
לֹ֣א
H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
2 of 11
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
הָתְפָּֽקְד֔וּ
were not numbered
H6485
הָתְפָּֽקְד֔וּ
were not numbered
Strong's:
H6485
Word #:
3 of 11
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
בְּנֵ֣י
the children
H1121
בְּנֵ֣י
the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
6 of 11
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
H834
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
7 of 11
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יְהוָ֖ה
as the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
as the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
9 of 11
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
The Levites were counted separately by different criteria (all males from one month old, Numbers 3:15), producing a total of 22,000. This separate enumeration maintained their distinct status as those consecrated for tabernacle service rather than military duty.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Levi's exemption from military service to focus on tabernacle duties illustrate the principle of specialized callings in kingdom work?
- What does this teach us about respecting different roles and callings within the body of Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The exclusion of Levites from this military census (repeated from 1:47-49) emphasizes their distinct consecration to sacred service. Those set apart for tabernacle ministry didn't participate in warfare, illustrating the principle of specialized kingdom callings. While all Christians are spiritual warriors, some are called to specialized ministry requiring separation from certain activities. Pastoral ministry exemplifies this principle.