Topical Bible: The Levites: Families, As Numbered of Merari

◄ The Levites: Families, As Numbered of Merari ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Levites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, were set apart for religious duties and service to the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Among the Levites, the family of Merari holds a significant place. Merari was the third son of Levi, the patriarch of the Levite tribe, and his descendants were entrusted with specific responsibilities concerning the Tabernacle.

Genealogy and Responsibilities

The family of Merari is one of the three main divisions of the Levites, alongside the families of Gershon and Kohath. According to the genealogical records, Merari had two sons, Mahli and Mushi, whose descendants formed the Merarite clans. The Merarites were assigned the task of caring for the structural components of the Tabernacle, including the frames, crossbars, posts, and bases, as detailed in the Book of Numbers.

Biblical Enumeration

The enumeration of the Levites, including the Merarites, is recorded in the Book of Numbers. In Numbers 3:33-37 , the duties and census of the Merarite families are outlined:

"From Merari came the clans of the Mahlites and the Mushites; these were the Merarite clans. The number of all the males a month old or more was 6,200. The leader of the families of the Merarites was Zuriel son of Abihail. They were to camp on the north side of the tabernacle. The Merarites were appointed to take care of the frames of the tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, bases, and all its equipment—all the service connected with these."

Later, in Numbers 4:29-33 , the specific tasks of the Merarites during the transportation of the Tabernacle are further detailed:

"Count the Merarites by their clans and families. You are to register all the men from thirty to fifty years old who come to serve in the work at the Tent of Meeting. This is the duty for all their service at the Tent of Meeting: to carry the frames of the tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, and bases, as well as the posts of the surrounding courtyard with their bases, tent pegs, ropes, and all their equipment and everything related to their use. You are to assign by name the items that each man is to carry."

Role in Israelite Worship

The Merarites played a crucial role in the mobility and functionality of the Tabernacle, ensuring that the dwelling place of God among His people was properly maintained and transported. Their responsibilities were vital for the orderly worship and sacrificial system established by God through Moses.

Historical Context and Legacy

Throughout Israel's history, the Merarites, like other Levites, were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Instead, they were allocated cities within the territories of other tribes, as described in Joshua 21. This arrangement underscored their unique role and dependence on the broader community of Israel for sustenance and support.

The legacy of the Merarites, as with all Levites, is one of dedicated service to God and His people. Their faithful execution of their duties contributed to the spiritual life and worship practices of ancient Israel, setting a precedent for religious service and devotion.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 3:20,33,34
And the sons of Merari by their families; Mahli, and Mushi. These are the families of the Levites according to the house of their fathers.
Torrey's Topical Textbook