King James Version
Numbers 17:3 in the King James Version says “And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers.”
Numbers 17:3 · KJV
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Speak unto the children of Israel, and take of every one of them a rod according to the house of their fathers, of all their princes according to the house of their fathers twelve rods: write thou every man's name upon his rod.
And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers.
And thou shalt lay them up in the tabernacle of the congregation before the testimony, where I will meet with you.
And it shall come to pass, that the man's rod, whom I shall choose, shall blossom: and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“name”
H8034an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
“And thou shalt write”
H3789to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“rod”
H4294a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“rod”
H4294a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
“shall be for the head”
H7218the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
“of the house”
H1004a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
“of their fathers”
H1father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
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.
Numbers 17:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Numbers 17:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge