King James Version

What Does Numbers 4:20 Mean?

“But they shall not go in to see when the holy things are covered, lest they die.”

Context

Cut ye not off the tribe of the families of the Kohathites from among the Levites:

But thus do unto them, that they may live, and not die, when they approach unto the most holy things: Aaron and his sons shall go in, and appoint them every one to his service and to his burden:

But they shall not go in to see when the holy things are covered, lest they die.

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Take also the sum of the sons of Gershon, throughout the houses of their fathers, by their families;

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(20) **But they shall not go in to see when the holy things are covered.**—Better, *But they shall not go in to see the holy things *(or, the sanctuary) *for a moment. *The Levites were not per-mitted to enter the holy place in which the priests ministered, much less the Holy of Holies. Whether this rule was or was not relaxed at the time of the removal of the Tabernacle, as the prohibition against entrance into the Holy of Holies must have been in regard to the priests, the Levites were not permitted in any case to look upon the Ark and the other holy things until they were covered.

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 4:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.