King James Version

What Does Numbers 3:16 Mean?

Numbers 3:16 in the King James Version says “And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded. word: Heb. mouth” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded. word: Heb. mouth”

Numbers 3:16 · KJV

Context

14

And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, saying,

15

Number the children of Levi after the house of their fathers, by their families: every male from a month old and upward shalt thou number them.

16

And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded. word: Heb. mouth

17

And these were the sons of Levi by their names; Gershon, and Kohath, and Merari.

18

And these are the names of the sons of Gershon by their families; Libni, and Shimei.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Moses' obedience in numbering the Levites 'according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded' demonstrates faithful execution of divine commands even in seemingly mundane administrative tasks. Faithful stewardship appears not only in spectacular acts of faith but in careful obedience to detailed instructions. This challenges the modern tendency to dichotomize 'spiritual' and 'practical' work—for God's servants, all obedience is spiritual service.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The census results (recorded in Numbers 3:17-39) provided the foundation for organizing Levitical service, with each clan assigned specific tabernacle components to transport and maintain. This administrative work enabled Israel's worship, demonstrating that practical service facilitates spiritual purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Moses' careful obedience in administrative tasks challenge false distinctions between 'spiritual' and 'practical' work?
  2. What does this teach us about the importance of faithful execution of detailed responsibilities in church ministry?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיִּפְקֹ֥ד1 of 8

“numbered”

H6485

to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc

אֹתָ֛ם2 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מֹשֶׁ֖ה3 of 8

“And Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

עַל4 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

פִּ֣י5 of 8

“them according to the word”

H6310

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

יְהוָ֑ה6 of 8

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֖ר7 of 8
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

צֻוָּֽה׃8 of 8

“as he was commanded”

H6680

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

Study Guide

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 3:16 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 3:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 4:37Numbers 3:39Numbers 4:49Numbers 4:27Numbers 4:45Deuteronomy 21:5

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