Numbers 3:34

The number of all the males a month old or more was 6,200.

Study Bible

The number of
This phrase indicates a census or counting, which was a common practice in ancient Israel for organizational and military purposes. In the context of the Levites, it underscores the importance of knowing the exact number of those who were set apart for service in the tabernacle. The Hebrew root for "number" is "מִסְפָּר" (mispar), which signifies an ordered or accounted group, emphasizing the precision and care in God's instructions.

all the males
The focus on males reflects the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where lineage and inheritance were typically traced through the male line. In the context of the Levites, males were specifically counted because they were the ones eligible for service in the tabernacle. This highlights the role of men in religious duties and the continuation of priestly functions.

a month old or more
This phrase indicates the age from which Levite males were counted, which is notably younger than the age for military service (usually 20 years old). The inclusion of infants as young as one month old signifies the dedication of the Levites from birth to the service of God. It reflects the idea of being set apart from the earliest stages of life, emphasizing the sanctity and lifelong commitment to their divine role.

was 6,200
The specific number, 6,200, reflects the total count of Levite males from the Gershonite clan, as detailed in the broader context of Numbers 3. This precise figure underscores the meticulous nature of the census and the importance of each individual in fulfilling the duties assigned to the Levites. Historically, such numbers also provide insight into the size and structure of the Israelite community during their wilderness journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle. They were not counted among the other tribes for military purposes but were dedicated to the service of God.

2. Gershonites
One of the three main divisions of the Levites, descended from Gershon, the son of Levi. They were responsible for the care of the Tabernacle's curtains and coverings.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who, under God's command, conducted the census of the Levites.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It was central to their worship and community life.

5. The Wilderness
The setting for the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, where God provided laws and instructions for worship and community living.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Service
The Gershonites' role highlights the importance of service in God's kingdom. Every task, no matter how seemingly mundane, is vital to the functioning of the community of faith.

God's Order and Structure
The specific counting and organization of the Levites demonstrate God's desire for order and structure in worship and community life. This reflects His nature and should inspire us to seek order in our spiritual practices.

Dedication from a Young Age
The counting of males from one month old signifies the early dedication to God's service. This can inspire us to dedicate our lives and the lives of our children to God from an early age.

Community and Responsibility
Each group within the Levites had specific responsibilities, teaching us the value of community and the importance of each member fulfilling their God-given role.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the specific counting of the Gershonites teach us about God's attention to detail and care for His people?

2. How can we apply the principle of dedicated service, as seen in the Levites, to our own lives and roles within the church?

3. In what ways does the organization of the Levites reflect God's character, and how can this influence our approach to worship and community life?

4. How does the early dedication of the Levite males inspire us in the spiritual upbringing of children today?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Gershonites' responsibilities that can be applied to our own roles in our faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:16-17
Provides the genealogy of Levi, including Gershon, which helps us understand the lineage and responsibilities of the Gershonites.

Numbers 1:47-53
Explains why the Levites were not included in the general census and their special role in caring for the Tabernacle.

1 Chronicles 23:6-7
Details the divisions of the Levites, including the Gershonites, and their specific duties in the service of the Lord.