Numbers 4:17
And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 7
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
The Kohathites' strategic importance to tabernacle worship meant their preservation was vital. Later Kohathite descendants included Samuel the prophet and king David's musicians. God's concern for preserving this tribe shows His providential oversight in maintaining the structures of worship and prophecy.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God demonstrate both severity and kindness in His dealings with His people?
- What protective commands has God given that we tend to view as burdensome?
- How does Christ preserve us from the judgment we deserve?
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Analysis & Commentary
God's concern that the Kohathite tribe 'be not cut off from among the Levites' reveals His desire to preserve those set apart for sacred service, despite the mortal danger involved. The Hebrew karat (cut off) often indicates judgment, but here God provides protective instructions to prevent it. This demonstrates divine mercy within judgment—God establishes both the threat and the means of escape. He preserves His servants through obedience to prescribed order, foreshadowing how Christ keeps us from spiritual death through His mediatorial work.