Numbers 7:9
But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders.
Original Language Analysis
וְלִבְנֵ֥י
But unto the sons
H1121
וְלִבְנֵ֥י
But unto the sons
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לֹ֣א
none
H3808
לֹ֣א
none
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 10
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
נָתָ֑ן
he gave
H5414
נָתָ֑ן
he gave
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
4 of 10
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 10
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הַקֹּ֙דֶשׁ֙
of the sanctuary
H6944
הַקֹּ֙דֶשׁ֙
of the sanctuary
Strong's:
H6944
Word #:
7 of 10
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
עֲלֵהֶ֔ם
H5921
עֲלֵהֶ֔ם
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
8 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
1 Chronicles 15:13For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order.Numbers 3:31And their charge shall be the ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altars, and the vessels of the sanctuary wherewith they minister, and the hanging, and all the service thereof.2 Samuel 6:13And it was so, that when they that bare the ark of the LORD had gone six paces, he sacrificed oxen and fatlings.
Historical Context
The ark of the covenant and the other sacred furnishings had to be carried on poles by the Kohathites' shoulders, never touching the objects directly (which would cause death) or placing them on carts. David later violated this principle, resulting in Uzzah's death when the cart stumbled and Uzzah touched the ark.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the prohibition on using wagons for the most sacred objects teach about reverence in worship?
- How should the principle of careful, personal handling of holy things inform our approach to Scripture and sacraments?
- In what ways does convenience sometimes threaten appropriate reverence for sacred things?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The Kohathites receiving no wagons appears surprising until we remember their unique calling—they carried the most sacred objects (ark, table, lampstand, altars) on their shoulders. These items were too holy to be placed on wagons pulled by animals. Physical proximity and direct human contact emphasized their sanctity. This teaches that the most precious things require the most careful handling. The Reformed understanding of the means of grace is relevant—some things are too sacred for casual treatment and require reverent, personal attention.