Numbers 4:29
As for the sons of Merari, thou shalt number them after their families, by the house of their fathers;
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֖י
As for the sons
H1121
בְּנֵ֖י
As for the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֥ם
them after their families
H4940
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֥ם
them after their families
Strong's:
H4940
Word #:
3 of 7
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
לְבֵית
by the house
H1004
לְבֵית
by the house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
4 of 7
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
אֲבֹתָ֖ם
of their fathers
H1
אֲבֹתָ֖ם
of their fathers
Strong's:
H1
Word #:
5 of 7
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
Historical Context
The Merarites carried the heaviest components of the tabernacle—the wooden framework and bronze sockets that formed the structure's skeleton. This was physically demanding work requiring strength and careful coordination to preserve the integrity of these essential elements.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the diversity of Levitical responsibilities illustrate the church's need for varied spiritual gifts?
- What does the foundational nature of the Merarites' work teach about different kinds of ministry?
- In what ways should recognition that all gifts serve the same structure promote unity in the church?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The census of the Merarites, the third Levitical clan, completes the organization of tabernacle service. The Merarites handled the structural framework—boards, bars, pillars, and sockets—the foundational elements upon which the fabric structure rested. This demonstrates that God's work requires different gifts working in harmony. The Reformed doctrine of the body of Christ emphasizes this complementary diversity of gifts, all essential for the church's health.