Numbers 3:16
And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּפְקֹ֥ד
numbered
H6485
וַיִּפְקֹ֥ד
numbered
Strong's:
H6485
Word #:
1 of 8
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
אֹתָ֛ם
H853
אֹתָ֛ם
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
4 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
פִּ֣י
them according to the word
H6310
פִּ֣י
them according to the word
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
5 of 8
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
6 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Numbers 4:37These were they that were numbered of the families of the Kohathites, all that might do service in the tabernacle of the congregation, which Moses and Aaron did number according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.Numbers 3:39All that were numbered of the Levites, which Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of the LORD, throughout their families, all the males from a month old and upward, were twenty and two thousand.
Historical Context
The census results (recorded in Numbers 3:17-39) provided the foundation for organizing Levitical service, with each clan assigned specific tabernacle components to transport and maintain. This administrative work enabled Israel's worship, demonstrating that practical service facilitates spiritual purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Moses' careful obedience in administrative tasks challenge false distinctions between 'spiritual' and 'practical' work?
- What does this teach us about the importance of faithful execution of detailed responsibilities in church ministry?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses' obedience in numbering the Levites 'according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded' demonstrates faithful execution of divine commands even in seemingly mundane administrative tasks. Faithful stewardship appears not only in spectacular acts of faith but in careful obedience to detailed instructions. This challenges the modern tendency to dichotomize 'spiritual' and 'practical' work—for God's servants, all obedience is spiritual service.