Numbers 4:18
Cut ye not off the tribe of the families of the Kohathites from among the Levites:
Original Language Analysis
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
1 of 8
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תַּכְרִ֕יתוּ
Cut ye not off
H3772
תַּכְרִ֕יתוּ
Cut ye not off
Strong's:
H3772
Word #:
2 of 8
to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
שֵׁ֖בֶט
the tribe
H7626
שֵׁ֖בֶט
the tribe
Strong's:
H7626
Word #:
4 of 8
a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֣ת
of the families
H4940
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֣ת
of the families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
5 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
הַקְּהָתִ֑י
of the Kohathites
H6956
הַקְּהָתִ֑י
of the Kohathites
Strong's:
H6956
Word #:
6 of 8
a kohathite (collectively) or descendants of kehath
Historical Context
Aaron and his sons bore direct responsibility because they alone could enter the holy place to cover the sacred objects. Any failure in properly covering them would result in Kohathite deaths when they attempted transport. This placed the burden of precision on the priesthood, not on the transporters.
Questions for Reflection
- How do spiritual leaders bear responsibility for protecting those they lead?
- What happens when leaders fail to provide proper spiritual covering and guidance?
- How can we pray for and support those charged with our spiritual oversight?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The command 'cut ye not off the tribe of the families of the Kohathites' makes Aaron and his sons responsible for the Kohathites' safety. The priests must cover the holy things properly to protect those who would transport them. This establishes the principle that spiritual leaders bear responsibility for those under their care. The Hebrew imperative mood emphasizes urgent obligation. This models pastoral care—elders must protect the flock from spiritual danger through sound teaching and wise oversight (Acts 20:28-31).