The Levites Consecrated
Numbers 8:5-26
Num.8.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וידבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
Parallels
- Num.1.1 (verbal): Same opening formula 'And the LORD spake unto Moses' introducing a new set of divine instructions (the census/encampment); both verses function as narrative markers that introduce procedural/legislative material to Moses.
- Exod.25.1 (verbal): Identical introductory phrase 'And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying' that begins detailed instructions about the tabernacle and its furnishings—paralleling Num 8.5's role in introducing ritual/tabernacle-related regulations.
- Lev.8.1 (thematic): Introduces the consecration of Aaron and his sons ('And the LORD spake unto Moses'), thematically parallel because Num 8.5 begins instructions for the consecration/setting apart of the Levites.
- Num.4.1 (thematic): 'And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron' begins regulations concerning the Levites' duties (Kohathites); thematically connected as both passages lay out practical/ritual service rules for Levites in tabernacle service.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
- And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
Num.8.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- קח: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- מתוך: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וטהרת: VERB,qal,perf,2,ms
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 3:12-13 (verbal): God declares He has taken the Levites from among the Israelites in place of the firstborn—same basic language and idea of 'taking' the Levites out of Israel.
- Leviticus 8:6 (structural): Moses performs ritual washing and consecration of Aaron and his sons; parallels the consecratory/cleansing rite applied to Levites in Num 8:6.
- Numbers 8:7 (structural): Immediate procedural continuation describing the cleansing rites (sprinkling water, shaving, washing clothes) that implement the command to 'purify' the Levites.
- Exodus 13:2 (thematic): Command to sanctify (consecrate) every firstborn to the LORD; thematically related to setting apart a group (here, Levites) for divine service.
- Deuteronomy 10:8 (allusion): Statement that the LORD set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the ark and minister before the LORD—reflects the same tradition of Levites' separation and service.
Alternative generated candidates
- Take the Levites from among the people of Israel and cleanse them.
- Take the Levites from among the children of Israel and cleanse them.
Num.8.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וכה: ADV
- תעשה: VERB,qal,imf,2,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- לטהרם: VERB,qal,inf,3,m,pl
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- עליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- חטאת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- והעבירו: VERB,hiph,perf,3,m,pl
- תער: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- כל: DET
- בשרם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- וכבסו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בגדיהם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- והטהרו: VERB,hithpael,imp,2,pl
Parallels
- Leviticus 14:8-9 (verbal): Almost identical ritual language and actions for cleansing (wash clothes, shave off all hair, bathe) in the restoration of the ritually unclean person.
- Numbers 6:9-12 (verbal): At the completion of the Nazirite vow the hair is shaved and clothes are washed as part of becoming 'clean'—parallels the shaving and laundering rites in Num 8:7.
- Exodus 29:4 (structural): Priestly consecration includes bringing Aaron and his sons and washing them with water—parallels the ceremonial washing/sprinkling in preparing Levites for service.
- Leviticus 15:5-8 (thematic): Purification laws for bodily discharges require bathing and washing garments to be clean, thematically aligning with Num 8:7’s use of washing and cleansing rites.
Alternative generated candidates
- Thus you shall do to them to purify them: sprinkle upon them the water of purification, pass a razor over all their flesh, and wash their garments; then they shall be clean.
- Thus you shall do to them to cleanse them: sprinkle on them the water of purification, and let them shave all their flesh with a razor, and wash their garments, and they shall be clean.
Num.8.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולקחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- פר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בקר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומנחתו: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs,prsuff:3ms
- סלת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בלולה: ADJ,ptc,pas,f,sg,abs
- בשמן: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ופר: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בקר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תקח: VERB,qal,imperfect,2,m,sg
- לחטאת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Leviticus 2:1-2 (verbal): Prescribes the grain (meal) offering of fine flour mixed with oil (סלת בלולה בשמן), matching the 'minchato' phrase and ritual form used in Num 8:8.
- Leviticus 4:3-12 (thematic): Gives regulations for a bull as a sin offering for purification; parallels Num 8:8's use of a young bull as a חטאת (sin offering) in the Levites' cleansing/consecration.
- Leviticus 8:14-15 (structural): In Aaron's consecration Moses offers a bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering—parallels the consecratory use of a sin offering in Num 8:8 for sanctifying ministerial personnel.
- Numbers 8:7 (allusion): Immediate context to 8:8; describes the washing, sprinkling, and shaving of the Levites that accompanies the offerings specified in 8:8, forming one ritual unit.
Alternative generated candidates
- You shall take a young bull and its grain offering of fine flour mixed with oil, and a second young bull you shall take for a sin offering.
- You shall take a young bull with its grain offering—fine flour mixed with oil—for a grain offering, and a second young bull you shall take for a sin offering.
Num.8.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והקרבת: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לפני: PREP
- אהל: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והקהלת: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- עדת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 3:6-10 (verbal): God commands Moses to bring the Levites before Aaron and set them apart for service — parallel language and function (presenting Levites to the sanctuary leadership).
- Leviticus 8:3 (structural): Moses gathers the whole congregation to the door of the tabernacle to bring Aaron and his sons for consecration — similar act of assembling the people before the Tent of Meeting.
- Exodus 29:1-4 (thematic): Instructions to bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance of the tent and wash them for ordination — thematically parallel in ritual presentation and consecration at the Tent.
- 1 Chronicles 23:2-3 (allusion): David and the leaders set apart and assign the Levites for the service of the house of the LORD — a later re-presentation/organization of Levites echoing the Numbers material.
Alternative generated candidates
- You shall present the Levites before the Tent of Meeting, and assemble the whole congregation of the people of Israel.
- You shall bring the Levites before the tent of meeting, and you shall assemble the whole congregation of the children of Israel.
Num.8.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והקרבת: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לפני: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- וסמכו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- ידיהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs+3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Num.8.6 (structural): Immediate context of the same consecration ritual (washing, shaving, and presenting the Levites) that leads up to the command in v.10.
- Num.8.11 (structural): Direct continuation: Aaron offers the Levites before the LORD so they may perform the service — the laying on of hands is part of this dedication/assignment.
- Num.3.12 (thematic): Explains the theological basis for the Levites' consecration: God has taken the Levites in place of Israel’s firstborn, the background for setting them apart.
- Exod.29.10 (verbal): In the ordination ritual Aaron and his sons place their hands on the head of the bullock — a parallel use of laying on of hands within priestly/dedication ceremonies.
- Lev.1.4 (allusion): The offerer lays hands on a sacrifice to transfer significance/blame to it; similarly Israel’s laying hands on the Levites marks transfer/dedication in the cultic system.
Alternative generated candidates
- You shall present the Levites before the LORD, and the people of Israel shall lay their hands on the Levites.
- And you shall present the Levites before the LORD; and the people of Israel shall lay their hands on the Levites.
Num.8.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והניף: VERB,hif,perf,3,m,sg
- אהרן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- תנופה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לפני: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- מאת: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והיו: CONJ+VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,pl
- לעבד: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- עבדת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 8:10 (structural): Immediate context: instructions for purifying and waving the Levites as a wave offering before the LORD — sets up the action described in 8:11.
- Numbers 3:12-13 (verbal): Earlier legislation: Yahweh takes the Levites instead of every firstborn of Israel and assigns them to Aaron’s service — the theological basis for their consecration and service.
- Exodus 32:26-29 (thematic): The Levites are set apart for Yahweh after responding to Moses’ summons — an earlier narrative moment that explains and exemplifies the Levites’ special status and service.
- Deuteronomy 33:8-11 (thematic): Moses’ blessing of Levi emphasizes their instruction in the law and duties to the sanctuary — echoes the role and divine appointment of Levi described in Num 8:11.
- 1 Chronicles 23:27-32 (thematic): Post-exilic organization of Levites for ministering in the house of the LORD, detailing assignments and age-requirements — a later elaboration on the Levites’ cultic service rooted in the Numbers tradition.
Alternative generated candidates
- Aaron shall then wave the Levites as a wave offering before the LORD on behalf of the people of Israel, and they shall perform the service of the LORD.
- Aaron shall wave the Levites with a wave offering before the LORD from the people of Israel, and they shall perform the service of the LORD.
Num.8.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והלוים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,def
- יסמכו: VERB,qal,impf,3,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- ידיהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs+3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- ראש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הפרים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ועשה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- האחד: PRON,indef,sg,m
- חטאת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- האחד: PRON,indef,sg,m
- עלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- לכפר: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- על: PREP
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Leviticus 1:4 (verbal): The ritual of laying hands on the head of the offering to transfer sin—'he shall lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering'—matches the transferal action in Num 8:12.
- Leviticus 8:14-15 (verbal): In the consecration of Aaron and his sons a bull is used as a sin offering with hands laid on its head—closely parallel in form and language to the Levites' consecration in Num 8:12.
- Exodus 29:10-20 (structural): Priestly consecration in Exodus employs a bull for sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering (with laying on of hands and slaughter), the same sacrificial structure applied to the Levites in Numbers 8.
- Numbers 3:12-13 (thematic): God's designation of the Levites 'instead of all the firstborn' and their special status explains why the Levites undergo a sacrificial consecration/atonement procedure as in Num 8:12.
- Hebrews 9:12 (thematic): New Testament theological reflection: the one-time atoning sacrifice language in Hebrews (Christ entering once with his blood to obtain eternal redemption) echoes the function of sacrificial offerings made 'to make atonement' in Num 8:12.
Alternative generated candidates
- The Levites shall lay their hands on the heads of the bulls; you shall make one a sin offering and the other a burnt offering to the LORD, to make atonement for the Levites.
- The Levites shall lay their hands on the heads of the bulls, and you shall make the one a sin offering and the other a burnt offering to the LORD, to make atonement for the Levites.
Num.8.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והעמדת: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לפני: PREP
- אהרן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולפני: CONJ+PREP
- בניו: NOUN,m,pl,cs
- והנפת: VERB,hiph,perf,2,m,sg
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- תנופה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ליהוה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Num.3.12-13 (verbal): God declares He has taken the Levites in place of the firstborn — same transferal/ownership language that undergirds the Levites’ presentation before Aaron.
- Num.18.6 (verbal): Repeats the idea that the Levites are given to Aaron and his sons to do the service of the tent of meeting — closely parallels the presenting/consecrating function in Num 8:13.
- Lev.8:23-26 (structural): Describes the ritual consecration of the Levites (washing, shaving, offerings) by Moses — parallels Num 8’s ceremony of setting the Levites before Aaron and offering them as a wave offering.
- Deut.10:8 (thematic): States that the LORD separated the tribe of Levi to stand before the LORD to minister and to bless in his name — echoes the purpose and status of the Levites expressed in Num 8:13.
Alternative generated candidates
- You shall set the Levites before Aaron and his sons, and you shall wave them as a wave offering before the LORD.
- You shall set the Levites before Aaron and before his sons, and you shall wave them as a wave offering before the LORD.
Num.8.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והבדלת: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- מתוך: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והיו: CONJ+VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Numbers 3:12-13 (verbal): Direct parallel language and idea: God declares He has taken the Levites from among Israel and set them apart as His, substituting them for the firstborn.
- Numbers 18:6-7 (verbal): Repeats and expands the same designation: the Levites are taken by God and shall be His, describing their service and status in place of the firstborn.
- Exodus 13:2 (thematic): Commands sanctification of the firstborn to the LORD; provides the theological background for why the Levites are taken as a substitute for the firstborn.
- Deuteronomy 10:8 (allusion): Affirms that the LORD separated Levi to minister before Him and to carry the ark, echoing the motif of the Levites being set apart for divine service.
Alternative generated candidates
- Thus you shall separate the Levites from among the people of Israel, and they shall be mine.
- You shall separate the Levites from among the children of Israel, and they shall be mine.
Num.8.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואחרי: CONJ
- כן: ADV
- יבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לעבד: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- אהל: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וטהרת: VERB,qal,imf,2,m,pl
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- והנפת: VERB,qal,imf,2,m,pl
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- תנופה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 3:6-13 (structural): Earliest establishment of the Levites: God takes the Levites in place of the firstborn and instructs their separation for service — a direct structural parallel to Num 8:15's commissioning of the Levites.
- Numbers 3:41-51 (verbal): Gives detailed ritual instructions for cleansing and presenting the Levites and redeeming the firstborn; much of the language and procedure parallels the cleansing and wave-offering motif in Num 8:15.
- Leviticus 8:6-12 (quotation): Moses washes, anoints, and consecrates Aaron and his sons for priestly service; the ritual purification and presentation for ministerial duty echo the actions prescribed for the Levites in Num 8:15.
- Exodus 29:4-9 (thematic): Priestly ordination rites (washing, clothing, offerings) supply the cultic template for consecration and presentation of ministers, comparable to the cleansing and offering language of Num 8:15.
- Deuteronomy 10:8-9 (thematic): States that the LORD took the Levites to minister in His place and they have no tribal inheritance, echoing the Levites’ special separation and service role affirmed in Num 8:15.
Alternative generated candidates
- Afterward the Levites shall come to do service at the Tent of Meeting; you shall purify them and wave them as a wave offering.
- After that the Levites shall come to do the service of the tent of meeting; and you shall cleanse them and wave them as a wave offering.
Num.8.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- נתנים: VERB,niphal,ptcp,3,m,pl
- נתנים: VERB,niphal,ptcp,3,m,pl
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- מתוך: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תחת: PREP
- פטרת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כל: DET
- רחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בכור: NOUN,m,sg,const
- כל: DET
- מבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לקחתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
Parallels
- Numbers 3:12-13 (verbal): God explicitly states He has taken the Levites 'instead of' the firstborn of Israel—language and substitution motif parallel to Num 8:16.
- Numbers 18:15-18 (thematic): Regulation that 'every firstborn is mine' and the requirement to redeem them; explains and repeats the idea that Levites serve in place of Israel's firstborn.
- Exodus 13:2,11-16 (verbal): Command to consecrate/ redeem every firstborn to the LORD; provides the foundational principle behind assigning the Levites to God.
- Exodus 34:19 (verbal): Statement 'all that openeth the womb is mine' echoes the claim of divine ownership of firstborn reflected in Num 8:16.
- Deuteronomy 10:8-9 (thematic): Describes God's choice of the Levites to stand before Him and be given 'in place of' the firstborn, reiterating the Levites' special status and lack of land inheritance.
Alternative generated candidates
- For they are given, given to me from among the people of Israel; I have taken them instead of every firstborn that opens the womb among the people of Israel—I have taken them for myself.
- For they are wholly given to me from among the children of Israel; I have taken them instead of every firstborn that opens the womb among the children of Israel.
Num.8.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- כל: DET
- בכור: NOUN,m,sg,const
- בבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,const
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- באדם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ובבהמה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ביום: PREP
- הכתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,sg
- כל: DET
- בכור: NOUN,m,sg,const
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- הקדשתי: VERB,hiphil,perf,1,sg
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
Parallels
- Exodus 13:2 (quotation): Command to consecrate every firstborn to the LORD — language and rationale (firstborn belong to God) parallel the claim that Israel’s firstborn are God’s, rooted in the Exodus judgment.
- Exodus 13:12–13 (verbal): Specifies that both human and animal firstborn are the LORD’s and describes setting them apart or redeeming them — closely echoing Num 8:17’s human/animal formulation and sanctification motif.
- Numbers 3:12–13 (thematic): Explains that God took the Levites in place of all Israel’s firstborn — thematically linked as a substitutional resolution to the claim that the firstborn belong to God.
- Numbers 18:15–16 (structural): Prescribes the redemption and treatment of firstborn males (human and unclean animals) for the LORD — a later legal/administrative development of the principle stated in Num 8:17.
Alternative generated candidates
- For all the firstborn are mine in Israel, both of man and of beast; on the day I struck every firstborn in the land of Egypt I consecrated them to myself.
- For all the firstborn are mine, both of man and of beast; on the day that I struck every firstborn in the land of Egypt I consecrated them to me.
Num.8.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואקח: VERB,qal,impf,1,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- תחת: PREP
- כל: DET
- בכור: NOUN,m,sg,const
- בבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,const
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 3:12 (quotation): Nearly identical wording earlier in the book: God declares He has taken the Levites in place of (tachat) all the firstborn of Israel—same substitution formula.
- Exodus 13:2 (thematic): God commands that every firstborn be consecrated to Him, providing the institutional background for why firstborn status must be accounted for (and thus replaced by Levites).
- Exodus 13:11-16 (structural): Gives the law about redeeming the firstborn of man and beast after the Exodus—establishes the legal mechanism and rationale behind substituting redeeming persons (leading to Levites’ role).
- Numbers 18:15 (thematic): Speaks of everything that opens the womb being holy to the LORD and needing redemption—connects the sanctity of firstborn persons to the Levites’ assignment and the redemption process.
- Deuteronomy 10:8 (thematic): States that the LORD separated the tribe of Levi to carry the ark and minister before Him—links the unique consecration of Levi to their function as substitutes for the firstborn.
Alternative generated candidates
- And I have taken the Levites in place of every firstborn among the people of Israel.
- And I have taken the Levites for myself instead of all the firstborn among the children of Israel.
Num.8.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואתנה: VERB,qal,impf,1,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- נתנים: ADJ,ptc,pass,_,m,pl
- לאהרן: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולבניו: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,pl,constr,3ms
- מתוך: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לעבד: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- עבדת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- באהל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולכפר: CONJ+PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- על: PREP
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולא: CONJ
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,const
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נגף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בגשת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,cons
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- הקדש: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Numbers 3:6-10 (verbal): Direct parallel: God sets the Levites apart to Aaron and his sons to serve in the tabernacle and to make atonement for Israel — language and function nearly identical.
- Numbers 18:6-7 (verbal): Restatement later in the narrative: Levites are given to Aaron to perform the service of the Israelites in the sanctuary and to make atonement, repeating the same allocation and purpose.
- Leviticus 10:10-11 (thematic): Priestly instruction to distinguish holy from common and to teach Israel God’s statutes — relates to the Levites’ role in maintaining cultic purity and mediating atonement/ritual order.
- 1 Chronicles 23:28-32 (structural): Chronicler’s assignment of specific duties to Levites for service in the house of the LORD; reflects the institutional and administrative continuation of Levitical service described in Numbers 8.
Alternative generated candidates
- I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the people of Israel, to perform the service of the people of Israel at the Tent of Meeting and to make atonement for the people of Israel, so that there shall be no plague among the people of Israel when they draw near the sanctuary.
- I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the children of Israel, to do the service for the children of Israel in the tent of meeting and to make atonement for the children of Israel; so there shall be no plague among the people of Israel when they come near the sanctuary.
Num.8.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- משה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ואהרן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- עדת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ללוים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- ככל: PREP
- אשר: PRON,rel
- צוה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- משה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ללוים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- כן: ADV
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 4:49 (verbal): Repeats the same formula about Israel doing to the Levites exactly what the LORD commanded Moses—an internal narrative parallel concluding a section on Levite duties.
- Exodus 39:32 (verbal): Uses the same phrase 'according to the LORD’s commandment which he commanded Moses' to report faithful execution of priestly/ritual instructions (here, the making of the priestly garments).
- Deuteronomy 18:1–2 (thematic): Sets out the special status and provisions for the Levitical priesthood—thematisation of Levites' distinct role and the community’s duty toward them, echoing Numbers’ concern with Levite service and disposition.
- 1 Chronicles 23:3–4 (thematic): David’s organizing and assigning of the Levites for temple service parallels Numbers’ account of instituting and implementing Levite duties—both describe communal obedience in establishing Levite roles.
Alternative generated candidates
- So Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the people of Israel did to the Levites all that the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites; thus the people of Israel did to them.
- So Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the children of Israel did to the Levites according to all that the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites; thus the children of Israel did to them.
Num.8.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתחטאו: VERB,hith,impf,3,m,pl
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ויכבסו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בגדיהם: NOUN,m,pl,suff3mp
- וינף: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אהרן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- תנופה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לפני: PREP
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ויכפר: VERB,piel,impf,3,m,sg
- עליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- אהרן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לטהרם: VERB,qal,inf,NA,NA,NA,suff3mp
Parallels
- Num.8.6-7 (structural): Immediate context: the instruction for cleansing the Levites — sprinkling, shaving, and washing their clothes — which is carried out in 8:21.
- Lev.8:6 (verbal): Moses brings Aaron and his sons and 'washed them with water' as part of priestly consecration — parallels the Levites' washing before being presented.
- Lev.8:30 (verbal): Moses takes blood/anointing and sprinkles it on Aaron and his garments to sanctify him — parallels Aaron's act of making atonement for the Levites to cleanse and consecrate them.
- Exod.29:21-22 (allusion): Part of the consecration ritual for Aaron and his sons, including sprinkling/placing blood and oil on persons and garments — parallels the pattern of presentation (wave) and atonement employed for the Levites.
- Lev.16:20-22 (thematic): On Yom Kippur Aaron lays hands on the scapegoat and transfers/atoned for the people's sins — thematically related to Aaron's atoning act on behalf of the Levites in Num 8:21.
Alternative generated candidates
- The Levites purified themselves and washed their garments; Aaron waved them as a wave offering before the LORD, and Aaron made atonement for them to cleanse them.
- The Levites purified themselves, and washed their garments; and Aaron waved them as a wave offering before the LORD, and Aaron made atonement for them and purified them.
Num.8.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואחרי: CONJ
- כן: ADV
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לעבד: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- עבדתם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- באהל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לפני: PREP
- אהרן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולפני: CONJ+PREP
- בניו: NOUN,m,pl,cs
- כאשר: CONJ
- צוה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- משה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- על: PREP
- הלוים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- כן: ADV
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 3:6-9 (verbal): An earlier commissioning of the Levites with nearly identical language—bringing the Levites before Aaron and his sons to do the service of the tabernacle and keep charge over Israel.
- Numbers 18:1-7 (thematic): God assigns the Levites to Aaron and describes their duty to attend to the service of the tent of meeting, echoing the Levites’ role and relationship to Aaron noted in Num 8:22.
- Deuteronomy 18:1-2 (thematic): Summarizes the Levites’ distinct cultic role and provision (no land inheritance but service to the LORD), paralleling the occupational identity expressed in Num 8:22.
- 1 Chronicles 23:28-32 (structural): Post-exilic organization of Levites into specific ministerial duties 'before the sons of Aaron,' reflecting the same institutional function and service to the sanctuary described in Numbers 8:22.
Alternative generated candidates
- Afterward the Levites came to perform their service at the Tent of Meeting before Aaron and his sons, as the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites; so they did to them.
- Afterward the Levites came to do their service in the tent of meeting before Aaron and before his sons, just as the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites; so they did to them.
Num.8.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וידבר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- משה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
Parallels
- Num.1.1 (verbal): Same formulaic opening 'וידבר יהוה אל־משה לאמר' introducing a series of divine instructions (census and organization) — shows recurring narrative marker in Numbers.
- Exod.25.1 (verbal): Identical wording 'וידבר יהוה אל־משה לאמר' that introduces God's instructions for the tabernacle — parallel use of the formula to introduce cultic/legal commands.
- Num.4.1 (verbal): Another close verbal parallel ('וידבר יהוה אל־משה ואל־אהרן לאמר') that begins regulations concerning the Levites' service — same communicative pattern within Numbers.
- Lev.1.1 (structural): Leviticus opens with 'ויקרא אל־משה וידבר יהוה אליו ... לאמר' — structurally equivalent theophanic commissioning that frames priestly legislation, mirroring Num.8.23's role in introducing priestly/Levitical material.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
- And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
Num.8.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ללוים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- מבן: PREP
- חמש: NUM,card,f,sg
- ועשרים: NUM,m,pl,abs
- שנה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ומעלה: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- יבוא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לצבא: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צבא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בעבדת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,const
- אהל: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Numbers 4:3 (verbal): Gives a closely related age-regulation for Levites (from thirty years old to fifty) for service in the tent of meeting — a direct verbal/legislative parallel that contrasts with Num 8:24's lower starting age (25).
- Numbers 4:23 (verbal): Repeats the age formula (thirty to fifty) for another Levitical clan (Gershon); reinforces the parallel legal tradition about Levitical service ages found in Numbers 4 and 8.
- Numbers 8:25 (structural): Immediate continuation of the same pericope: prescribes that at fifty years a Levite shall cease the service — complements 8:24's starting age by providing the upper age-limit.
- 1 Chronicles 23:24-27 (thematic): David's later reorganization sets Levites to begin service at twenty and serve until sixty — a thematic and editorial variant showing evolving practice/interpretation of Levitical service ages in post‑exilic tradition.
Alternative generated candidates
- This is the service of the Levites: from twenty-five years old and upward they shall enter to serve in the work of the service at the Tent of Meeting.
- This is what concerns the Levites: from twenty-five years old and upward they shall enter into service to attend in the work of the tent of meeting.
Num.8.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ומבן: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חמשים: NUM,card,pl
- שנה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ישוב: VERB,qal,imprf,3,m,sg
- מצבא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העבדה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ולא: CONJ
- יעבד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עוד: ADV
Parallels
- Numbers 8:24 (structural): Immediate context: verse 24 sets the lower age for Levite service (25), while 8:25 gives the corresponding upper limit (50); together they form the full age‑range regulation.
- Numbers 4:3 (verbal): Earlier restatement of Levitical service ages: Numbers 4:3 prescribes service from about 30 to 50 years for those numbered for the camp, echoing the 50‑year retirement rule.
- Numbers 4:47 (verbal): Repetition in Numbers 4 concerning the thirty‑to‑fifty age bracket for specific Levitical families (Gershonites/Kohathites), reinforcing the rule that service ceases at fifty.
- 1 Chronicles 23:24-25 (thematic): David’s later reorganization of Levitical duties shifts the entry age (to 20) while still citing an upper boundary near fifty, providing a thematic parallel and administrative development to the Numbers regulation.
Alternative generated candidates
- And from fifty years old they shall withdraw from the service of the work; they shall not perform it any more.
- And from fifty years old they shall retire from the service of ministering and shall do no more the work of service.
Num.8.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ושרת: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- באהל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מועד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לשמר: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- משמרת: NOUN,f,sg,cons
- ועבדה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לא: PART_NEG
- יעבד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ככה: ADV
- תעשה: VERB,qal,imf,2,m,sg
- ללוים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,def
- במשמרתם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs,3mp
Parallels
- Numbers 8:24-25 (verbal): Immediate context governing Levites' age and terms of service (they serve from 25 and cease at 50); closely parallels v.26's instruction about their duties and cessation of other work.
- Numbers 4:3, 4:23-26 (verbal): Census and regulations for Levites' service (age ranges and who bears burdens); repeats and elaborates rules about Levites' tabernacle duties referenced in 8:26.
- Numbers 18:21-24 (thematic): Assigns the Levites to the service of the tabernacle and explains their exemption from land inheritance—same theme of Levites serving 'in the tent of meeting' and not doing ordinary labor.
- 1 Chronicles 23:24-32 (structural): Post‑exilic reorganization of Levites with age limits and specific temple duties (gatekeepers, singers, officers), echoing the practical assignments in Num 8:26.
- Psalm 134:1-2 (thematic): Calls on 'servants of the LORD' who stand in the house of the LORD by night to bless the Lord—parallels the theme of Levites' continual service and watch in the sanctuary.
Alternative generated candidates
- They shall serve their brothers at the Tent of Meeting to keep watch and to guard, but they shall do no ordinary labor; thus you shall do for the Levites in their charge.
- They shall serve their brothers in the tent of meeting to keep guard and to do no work; thus shall you deal with the Levites in their duties.
And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
Take the Levites from among the people of Israel and cleanse them. Thus you shall do to cleanse them: sprinkle upon them the water of purification, and let them shave all their flesh; wash their garments, and they shall be clean. And you shall take a young bull for a sin offering, and its meal offering—fine flour mixed with oil; and a second young bull you shall take for a burnt offering.
You shall present the Levites before the tent of meeting, and you shall assemble the whole congregation of the people of Israel. And you shall present the Levites before the LORD, and the people of Israel shall lay their hands on the Levites.
Aaron shall lift up the Levites as a wave offering before the LORD on behalf of the people of Israel, and they shall perform the service of the LORD.
The Levites shall lay their hands upon the heads of the bulls; and one shall be for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering to the LORD, to make atonement for the Levites.
You shall set the Levites before Aaron and before his sons, and you shall wave them as a wave offering before the LORD. Thus you shall separate the Levites from among the people of Israel; and the Levites shall be mine.
Afterward the Levites shall come to do the service of the tent of meeting. You shall cleanse them and you shall wave them as a wave offering.
For they are given—given to me—from among the people of Israel; I have taken them for myself in place of every firstborn among the people of Israel.
For all the firstborn are mine in Israel, both of man and of beast; on the day that I struck every firstborn in the land of Egypt I consecrated them to myself. And I have taken the Levites for myself instead of all the firstborn among the people of Israel.
I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the people of Israel, to do the service of the people at the tent of meeting and to make atonement for the people of Israel, so that there shall be no plague among the people when the people of Israel come near the sanctuary. So Moses and Aaron and all the congregation of the people of Israel did to the Levites according to all that the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites; thus the people of Israel did to them.
The Levites purified themselves, washed their garments; and Aaron presented them as a wave offering before the LORD, and Aaron made atonement for them to cleanse them.
After that the Levites went in to perform their service at the tent of meeting before Aaron and before his sons; as the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites, so they did to them. And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying:
This is the service of the Levites: from twenty-five years old and upward they shall come to enter the service, to do the work at the tent of meeting. And from the age of fifty years they shall retire from the active service of the work and shall do no more work.
They shall serve their brothers in the tent of meeting in keeping the charge, but they shall perform no heavy labor; thus you shall do for the Levites in their watch.