Numbers 3:33
Of Merari was the family of the Mahlites, and the family of the Mushites: these are the families of Merari.
Original Language Analysis
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
and the family
H4940
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
and the family
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
2 of 9
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
הַמַּחְלִ֔י
of the Mahlites
H4250
הַמַּחְלִ֔י
of the Mahlites
Strong's:
H4250
Word #:
3 of 9
a machlite or (collectively) descendants of machli
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
and the family
H4940
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
and the family
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
4 of 9
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
הַמּוּשִׁ֑י
of the Mushites
H4188
הַמּוּשִׁ֑י
of the Mushites
Strong's:
H4188
Word #:
5 of 9
a mushite (collectively) or descendants of mushi
Historical Context
The Mahlites and Mushites descended from Merari through his two sons Mahli and Mushi (Exodus 6:19). These families received the heaviest physical labor—transporting the tabernacle's structural framework of boards, bars, pillars, and sockets.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the complete organization of all Levitical families teach us the importance of ensuring all necessary ministry functions are assigned and covered?
- What does this teach us about the value of administrative planning in effective kingdom service?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The enumeration of Merarite families (Mahlites and Mushites) completes the systematic organization of all three Levitical clans. Each received specific assignments, ensuring comprehensive coverage of tabernacle maintenance with no gaps or overlaps. This thorough organization demonstrates that effective kingdom work requires careful planning where every necessary function is assigned to capable workers.