Numbers 3:29
The families of the sons of Kohath shall pitch on the side of the tabernacle southward.
Original Language Analysis
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
The families
H4940
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
The families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
1 of 8
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
בְּנֵֽי
of the sons
H1121
בְּנֵֽי
of the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 8
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יַֽחֲנ֑וּ
shall pitch
H2583
יַֽחֲנ֑וּ
shall pitch
Strong's:
H2583
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s
עַ֛ל
H5921
עַ֛ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
5 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
יֶ֥רֶךְ
on the side
H3409
יֶ֥רֶךְ
on the side
Strong's:
H3409
Word #:
6 of 8
the thigh (from its fleshy softness); by euphemistically the generative parts; figuratively, a shank, flank, side
Historical Context
The tabernacle arrangement formed a hollow square with the twelve tribes positioned around it. The Levite clans formed an inner square directly around the tabernacle, serving as mediators between God's holy presence and the people. This arrangement could span several miles given the size of the encampment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your spiritual position affect your service capacity?
- What does it mean to be strategically placed by God for His purposes?
- How should proximity to sacred things shape our reverence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The Kohathites encamped on the south side of the tabernacle, positioning them for immediate access to the holy furnishings they would transport. This strategic placement reflects divine wisdom in organizing worship logistics. The Hebrew teyman (southward) positioned them near the altar and laver. God orders His people not randomly but with purpose—proximity to sacred objects required those who understood their holiness. This foreshadows how elders must be positioned near spiritual truth to guard and teach it (Titus 1:9).