Context and Background:

Numbers 4:44 is a verse located within the Old Testament book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Pentateuch. The book of Numbers is traditionally attributed to Moses and is a continuation of the narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The primary focus of Numbers is on the organization, duties, and journey of the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

Verse Text (Berean Standard Bible):

"Those numbered by their clans were 3,200."

Analysis:

Numbers 4:44 is part of a larger passage detailing the census of the Levites, specifically the Kohathite clan, who were responsible for the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle. This verse provides the specific number of Kohathite men aged thirty to fifty who were eligible for service in the tabernacle.

Significance:

1. Levitical Duties: The Kohathites, one of the three main divisions of the Levites, had the critical role of transporting the most holy items of the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altars. Their service was essential for maintaining the sanctity and proper function of the tabernacle, which was central to Israelite worship and community life.

2. Divine Order and Organization: The census reflects the importance of order and structure within the Israelite community. Each clan and family had specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating a divinely ordained system of worship and service. This organization underscores the theme of holiness and obedience to God's commands, which is prevalent throughout the book of Numbers.

3. Symbolism of Numbers: The specific number, 3,200, while literal, also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's attention to detail and care for His people. Each individual counted was significant in the eyes of God, contributing to the collective mission of the Israelites.

4. Spiritual Lessons: From a spiritual perspective, this verse, like many others in the census accounts, can be seen as a reminder of the importance of each believer's role in the body of Christ. Just as the Kohathites had a unique and vital function, so too does each Christian have a specific calling and purpose within the Church.

Conclusion:

Numbers 4:44, while seemingly a simple record of a census, holds deeper theological and spiritual implications. It highlights the importance of service, the necessity of order in worship, and the value of each individual's contribution to the community of faith. Through this verse, believers are reminded of the significance of their roles in God's divine plan and the call to faithfully fulfill their duties in service to Him.3200 (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 4:44
even those who were numbered of them by their families, were three thousand two hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

3200 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 3200 (1 Occurrence). Numbers 4:44 even those who were
numbered of them by their families, were three thousand two hundred. ...
/num/3200.htm - 6k

3600 (2 Occurrences)

/num/3600.htm - 7k

3023 (1 Occurrence)

/num/3023.htm - 6k

Merari (38 Occurrences)
... (Numbers 3:25, 26). When reckoned by the number fit for service, ie between 30 and
50 years, the sons of Merari were 3,200 strong (Numbers 4:42-45). ...
/m/merari.htm - 23k

Number (2370 Occurrences)
... numbers written in full. The words used there for 3,200, 1,000 are written
as words without any abbreviation. The earlier text of ...
/n/number.htm - 40k

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