Verse:
"The total number of the firstborn males a month old or more, listed by name, was 22,273." (Numbers 3:43)

Context and Analysis:
Numbers 3:43 is situated within the broader narrative of the Book of Numbers, which details the organization and duties of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This particular verse is part of a census commanded by God to Moses, focusing on the firstborn males of Israel. The census was conducted to establish the number of firstborn males who were to be redeemed by the Levites.

Theological Significance:
The concept of the firstborn holds significant theological weight in the biblical narrative. The firstborn males of Israel were considered sacred to the Lord, a reminder of the deliverance from Egypt when the firstborn of the Egyptians were struck down, and the Israelites were spared (Exodus 13:2, 12-15). This act of sparing the firstborn is a testament to God's mercy and faithfulness to His covenant people.

In Numbers 3, God commands that the Levites be taken in place of the firstborn of Israel. The Levites are set apart for service to the Lord, effectively becoming a living sacrifice and a substitute for the firstborn of all the tribes. This substitution underscores the principle of redemption, a recurring theme throughout Scripture, where one life is given in place of another.

Numerical Details:
The specific number of firstborn males, 22,273, is noteworthy. It reflects the meticulous nature of the census and the importance of each individual in the eyes of God. The precision of this number also highlights the historical and factual nature of the biblical record, emphasizing the reliability of Scripture.

Practical Application:
For believers, Numbers 3:43 serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of dedication to His service. Just as the firstborn were redeemed and the Levites were set apart, Christians are called to live lives consecrated to God, recognizing the redemption they have received through Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of the firstborn sacrifice.

Conclusion:
Numbers 3:43, while seemingly a simple record of a census, is rich with theological implications. It points to God's sovereign choice, the principle of substitutionary redemption, and the call to holiness. This verse, like many others, invites believers to reflect on their own dedication to God and the redemption they have received through Christ.22273 (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 3:43
All the firstborn males according to the number of names, from a month old and upward, of those who were numbered of them, were twenty-two thousand two hundred seventy-three.
(See NAS NIV)

22273 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 22273 (1 Occurrence). Numbers 3:43 All the firstborn
males according to the number of names, from a month ...
/num/22273.htm - 6k

22600 (1 Occurrence)

/num/22600.htm - 6k

22200 (1 Occurrence)

/num/22200.htm - 6k

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