Numbers 4:13

Then they shall remove the ashes from the bronze altar, spread a purple cloth over it,

Study Bible

Then they shall remove the ashes from the bronze altar
The bronze altar, also known as the altar of burnt offering, was a central fixture in the Tabernacle, used for sacrifices and offerings to God. Removing the ashes was a necessary task to maintain the altar's function and purity, symbolizing the removal of sin and the need for continual cleansing. This act reflects the importance of maintaining holiness and order in worship. The bronze altar itself is a type of Christ, representing His sacrifice for sin. The removal of ashes signifies the completion of the sacrificial process, pointing to the finality of Christ's atonement.

spread a purple cloth over it
The use of a purple cloth is significant, as purple was a color associated with royalty and wealth in ancient cultures, often obtained from expensive dyes. Covering the altar with a purple cloth could symbolize the majesty and sovereignty of God, as well as the sacredness of the altar. This act of covering also indicates the care and reverence required in handling holy objects. In a typological sense, the purple cloth can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's kingship and His role as the ultimate High Priest, who covers and intercedes for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Kohathites
A Levitical family responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects, including the bronze altar.

2. The Bronze Altar
A key piece of the Tabernacle used for burnt offerings, symbolizing atonement and worship.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, central to their worship and community life.

4. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites, responsible for instructing the Levites in their duties.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The context in which these instructions were given, as the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reverence
The careful handling of the altar and its ashes underscores the need for reverence in worship. Just as the Kohathites were instructed to treat the altar with respect, believers today are called to approach God with reverence and awe.

Symbolism of Purity
Removing the ashes signifies the need for purity and renewal in our spiritual lives. Just as the altar was cleansed, we are called to regularly examine and purify our hearts before God.

Role of Service
The Kohathites' service highlights the importance of each believer's role in the body of Christ. Every task, no matter how small, contributes to the worship and work of the church.

Continuity of Worship
The use of a purple cloth, a color often associated with royalty and priesthood, points to the continuity of worship from the Old Covenant to the New, where believers are called a royal priesthood.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the removal of ashes from the bronze altar teach us about the importance of maintaining purity in our worship practices today?

2. How can the reverence shown by the Kohathites in handling the altar inform our approach to worship and service in the church?

3. In what ways does the role of the Kohathites in the Tabernacle parallel the responsibilities of believers as described in 1 Peter 2:5?

4. How does the symbolism of the purple cloth used to cover the altar connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's priesthood and kingship?

5. Reflect on a time when you have served in a seemingly small role within your church or community. How does this passage encourage you to view such service as significant in God's eyes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-8
Describes the construction of the bronze altar, providing context for its significance and use.

Leviticus 6:10-11
Details the priestly duties concerning the removal of ashes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the altar.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Covenant.

1 Peter 2:5
Relates the priestly duties to the spiritual sacrifices of believers, highlighting the continuity of worship from the Old to the New Testament.