King James Version
What Does Numbers 3:3 Mean?
“These are the names of the sons of Aaron, the priests which were anointed, whom he consecrated to minister in the priest's office. whom: Heb. whose hand he filled”
Context
1
These also are the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day that the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.
2
And these are the names of the sons of Aaron; Nadab the firstborn, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.
3
These are the names of the sons of Aaron, the priests which were anointed, whom he consecrated to minister in the priest's office. whom: Heb. whose hand he filled
4
And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest's office in the sight of Aaron their father.
5
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Whom he consecrated . . . —**Literally, *filled their hand. *The rites of consecration are described at length in Exodus 29:1-37, where the command given to Moses is related. and in Leviticus 8:1-13, where the account is given of the actual consecration, on which occasion the appointed sacrificial offerings were placed by Moses in the hands of Aaron and in the hands of his sons. The act of consecration was performed by Moses in the case of Aaron’s sons, as well as in that of Aaron himself.
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 3:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 3:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge