Numbers 3:14-26 | The Way of Scripture

Numbers 3:14-26

Why does this census begin at one month old?

Berean Standard Bible

14 Then the LORD spoke to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai, saying, 15 “Number the Levites by their families and clans. You are to count every male a month old or more.” 16 So Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he had been commanded. 17 These were the sons of Levi by name: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. 18 These were the names of the sons of Gershon by their clans: Libni and Shimei. 19 The sons of Kohath by their clans were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel. 20 And the sons of Merari by their clans were Mahli and Mushi. These were the clans of the Levites, according to their families. 21 From Gershon came the Libnite clan and the Shimeite clan; these were the Gershonite clans. 22 The number of all the males a month old or more was 7,500. 23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west, behind the tabernacle, 24 and the leader of the families of the Gershonites was Eliasaph son of Lael. 25 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were the tabernacle and tent, its covering, the curtain for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, 26 the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, and the cords—all the service for these items.

What is the context?

Moses is now to count Levitical males from a month old, by family and clan. This differs from the military count of men twenty and older. The family branches of Gershon, Kohath, and Merari introduce the organization that follows.

The Gershonite clans are counted and placed west of the tabernacle. Their responsibilities concern its tent and coverings, entrance curtains, courtyard curtains, and cords. Counting the whole male population does not mean infants are already carrying these materials.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley relates the census age to consecration and distinguishes it from the later age of actual service. The USCCB notes connect Gershon’s materials with their descriptions in Exodus. The census identifies those belonging to the tribe, while the assigned work will receive its own qualification and age limits.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

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