King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:51 Mean?

And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.

Context

49

Only thou shalt not number the tribe of Levi, neither take the sum of them among the children of Israel:

50

But thou shalt appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of testimony, and over all the vessels thereof, and over all things that belong to it: they shall bear the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof; and they shall minister unto it, and shall encamp round about the tabernacle.

51

And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.

52

And the children of Israel shall pitch their tents, every man by his own camp, and every man by his own standard, throughout their hosts.

53

But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(51) **And the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.**—The word *zar *(stranger) here denotes one who was not of the tribe of Levi (Leviticus 22:10; Leviticus 22:12).

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 1:51 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 1:51

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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