Numbers 4:36

And those that were numbred of them by their families, were two thousand, seuen hundred and fiftie. Numbers 4:36 (KJV)

The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, which consists of the first five books of the Old Testament. Numbers records the period of Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. In chapter 4 the focus turns to a detailed census of the Levites, the tribe set apart for service of the Tabernacle.

The Levites were descendants of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel). God set them apart to assist the priests and to serve in the Tabernacle. Numbers 4 assigns the Levites specific responsibilities related to the transportation and care of the Tabernacle and its furnishings during the wilderness wanderings.

In this verse the emphasis is on the Levites and their families who were charged with particular tasks for the Tabernacle. The count recorded is two thousand seven hundred and fifty, representing a distinct group within the larger tribe of Levi who were given these duties.

The meticulous counting and organization of the Levites highlight God’s order and attention to detail. Each individual had a designated role in the service of the Tabernacle, and the numbers give a sense of the scale and coordination required to maintain and transport the sacred furnishings.

While the primary purpose of the verse is to provide an account of the Levites and their families, the figure 2,750 can also be seen symbolically. It represents a chosen few set apart for a specific responsibility, illustrating how God works through individuals and calls them to particular tasks in His service. Though the number may seem small compared with the whole nation, each person played a vital role in fulfilling God’s plan.

Application of this passage reminds believers that God values every individual and assigns unique roles within His kingdom. It encourages faithfulness in the tasks God entrusts to us, regardless of their size. Just as the Levites diligently carried out their duties for the Tabernacle, we are called to serve God with dedication, knowing that our contributions, however modest, are significant in His eyes.

Readers are encouraged to examine the surrounding verses and explore the broader context to gain a fuller understanding of the passage.