Numbers 31:47
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 31:47
47 Even of the children of Israel's half, Moses took one portion of fifty, both of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Chapter Context
Numbers 31 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, discipleship, judgment. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-54: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 31:47
47 Even of the children of Israel's half, Moses took one portion of fifty, both of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.
Analysis
Even of the children of Israel's half, Moses took one portion of fifty, both of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites—From the congregation's half, Moses extracted a 2% Levitical tax (אֶחָד אָחֻז מִן־הַחֲמִשִּׁים, echad achutz min-ha-chamishim, "one drawn/seized from the fifty"). This totaled 6,750 sheep, 720 cattle, 610 donkeys, and 320 persons for the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD (שֹׁמְרֵי מִשְׁמֶרֶת מִשְׁכַּן יְהוָה, shomrei mishmereth mishkan YHWH, "keepers of the keeping/service of the tabernacle").
This wasn't Moses' innovation but as the LORD commanded Moses—divine provision for those without tribal inheritance. Levites maintained worship, taught Torah, and administered justice. The 2% tax on community spoils (versus 0.2% on warriors' portion, v. 28-29) shows that communal wealth bore greater responsibility for supporting religious infrastructure.
Historical Context
Levites received no land inheritance in Canaan (Numbers 18:20-24), depending on tithes and offerings. This spoil distribution provided immediate livestock and labor for tabernacle service during the conquest period. The 320 persons likely assisted with animal care, tent maintenance, and transport—essential for a mobile worship center serving 600,000+ people.
Reflection
- What does the Levitical provision from spoils teach about the community's responsibility to support those in full-time ministry?
- How does the principle "keepers of the charge" apply to pastoral oversight and spiritual stewardship today?
- Why does Scripture emphasize "as the LORD commanded"—what dangers arise when support for ministers comes from human invention rather than divine command?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Temple: Numbers 31:30