Numbers 18:6

Behold, I Myself have selected your fellow Levites from the Israelites as a gift to you, dedicated to the LORD to perform the service for the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

Behold
The word "Behold" is a call to attention, urging the listener or reader to focus on what follows. In Hebrew, this is often translated from "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which serves as an imperative to observe or consider something significant. In the context of Numbers 18:6, it emphasizes the importance of the message God is delivering to Aaron regarding the Levites. This divine directive is not to be taken lightly, as it pertains to the sacred duties and responsibilities within the tabernacle.

I Myself
This phrase underscores the personal involvement of God in the matter at hand. The Hebrew text uses "אָנֹכִי" (anokhi), which is a strong, emphatic form of "I." It highlights God's direct action and authority in appointing the Levites. This personal involvement signifies the importance of the Levites' role and the divine origin of their appointment, reinforcing that their service is not a human decision but a divine mandate.

have taken
The phrase "have taken" indicates a deliberate action by God. The Hebrew root "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take, seize, or acquire. This conveys that God has actively chosen the Levites for a specific purpose. It is not a passive selection but an intentional act of setting apart a group for His service, emphasizing the sovereignty and intentionality of God in His divine plan.

your brothers the Levites
Here, "your brothers the Levites" refers to the tribe of Levi, who are kin to Aaron and his descendants. The Levites are set apart from the other tribes of Israel for special service to God. Historically, the Levites were chosen for their loyalty during the incident of the golden calf (Exodus 32:26-29). This familial term "brothers" underscores the close relationship and shared heritage between Aaron's priestly line and the broader Levitical tribe, highlighting unity in their divine service.

from among the Israelites
This phrase indicates the selection of the Levites from the larger community of the Israelites. The Levites are distinguished from the other tribes, set apart for a unique role. This separation is not for privilege but for service, emphasizing their dedication to God and the community. It reflects the biblical theme of being in the world but set apart for God's purposes, a concept that resonates throughout Scripture.

as a gift
The term "as a gift" signifies the Levites' role as a divine provision for the priesthood and the people of Israel. The Hebrew word "מַתָּנָה" (mattanah) implies a present or offering. This portrays the Levites as a gracious gift from God to assist Aaron and his sons in their priestly duties. It highlights the generosity of God in providing for the needs of His people and ensuring the proper worship and service within the tabernacle.

to you
The phrase "to you" is directed towards Aaron, indicating that the Levites are given to him and his descendants to aid in their priestly responsibilities. This personalizes the gift, showing that God is providing for Aaron's needs in fulfilling his divine calling. It underscores the partnership between the priests and the Levites in maintaining the sanctity and order of worship.

dedicated to the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the consecration of the Levites to God's service. The Hebrew root "נָתַן" (nathan) in this context implies being given or devoted. The Levites are not merely assistants but are wholly dedicated to the LORD, serving as His representatives. This dedication is a reminder of the holiness required in serving God and the need for purity and devotion in all aspects of worship and service.

to perform the work at the Tent of Meeting
The "work at the Tent of Meeting" refers to the various duties the Levites are to perform in the tabernacle, the central place of worship for the Israelites. This includes tasks such as setting up and taking down the tabernacle, transporting it, and assisting the priests in sacrifices and rituals. The Tent of Meeting, or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Moed), is where God met with Moses and the priests, symbolizing His presence among His people. The Levites' work is crucial in maintaining the tabernacle's function as a place of divine encounter, underscoring the importance of their role in facilitating the worship and spiritual life of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who establishes the roles and duties of the Levites.

2. Levites
A tribe set apart by God to assist the priests in the service of the Tent of Meeting, serving as a gift to Aaron and his sons.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God from whom the Levites are taken to serve in a special capacity.

4. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and leader of the priestly duties.

5. Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle)
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the Levites performed their service.

Teaching Points

Divine Selection and Purpose
God chooses specific individuals for His purposes, as seen in the selection of the Levites. This reminds us that each believer has a unique role in God's kingdom.

Service as a Gift
The Levites are described as a gift to Aaron and the priesthood. Our service to God and others should be viewed as a gift, not a burden.

Dedication to the LORD
The Levites were dedicated to the LORD, emphasizing the importance of wholehearted dedication in our spiritual lives.

Support and Assistance in Ministry
Just as the Levites supported the priests, believers are called to support and assist one another in ministry, fostering a community of service.

Holiness and Separation
The Levites' separation from the rest of the Israelites for a holy purpose reflects the call for believers to live lives set apart for God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Levites as described in Numbers 18:6 reflect God's plan for organized worship and service within the community of believers?

2. In what ways can we view our own service to God and others as a "gift" rather than an obligation?

3. How does the concept of being "dedicated to the LORD" challenge us in our daily walk with God?

4. What parallels can we draw between the support role of the Levites and the New Testament teaching on the body of Christ?

5. How can we apply the principle of holiness and separation in our lives today, while still engaging with the world around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The Levites' loyalty during the golden calf incident, which set them apart for special service.

Deuteronomy 10:8-9
Further elaboration on the role of the Levites, emphasizing their unique inheritance and duties.

1 Peter 2:9
The New Testament concept of believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the dedicated service of the Levites.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Describes the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, providing context for the Levites' service in the Tent of Meeting.