Numbers 3:20

And the sons of Merari by their clans were Mahli and Mushi. These were the clans of the Levites, according to their families.

Study Bible

And the sons of Merari
The phrase introduces us to the descendants of Merari, one of the three sons of Levi, the patriarch of the Levites. The Levites were set apart for the service of the Tabernacle, and each family had specific duties. The name "Merari" is derived from the Hebrew root "marar," meaning "bitter" or "to be grieved." This could reflect the hardships faced by the Levites or the burdens they carried in their service. Historically, the Merarites were responsible for the heavier, structural elements of the Tabernacle, such as the frames, bars, pillars, and bases, which required strength and resilience, perhaps echoing the "bitterness" of their labor.

were Mahli and Mushi
Mahli and Mushi are the sons of Merari, and their names are significant in understanding their roles and heritage. "Mahli" comes from the Hebrew root "machal," meaning "sick" or "weak," which might symbolize the human frailty and dependence on God for strength. "Mushi" is derived from "mashah," meaning "to draw out" or "to save," possibly indicating a role of deliverance or support within the community. These names remind us of the dual nature of human existence—our weaknesses and the divine strength that sustains us.

These were the clans of the Levites
The term "clans" refers to the subdivisions within the tribe of Levi. Each clan had distinct responsibilities and roles in the service of the Tabernacle. The Levites were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel; instead, their inheritance was the Lord Himself and the privilege of serving Him. This highlights the spiritual inheritance and the call to serve God above earthly possessions, a principle that resonates with the Christian calling to prioritize spiritual over material wealth.

according to their families
This phrase emphasizes the importance of family lineage and structure within the Israelite community. The Levites' service was hereditary, passed down through generations, underscoring the value of faithfulness and continuity in serving God. It reflects the biblical principle of generational blessing and responsibility, where each family is entrusted with the duty to uphold and transmit the faith. This serves as an inspiration for Christian families today to nurture and pass on their faith to future generations, ensuring the continuity of God's work through familial lines.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Merari
One of the three sons of Levi, Merari is the patriarch of the Merarite clan. The Merarites were responsible for the care of the frames of the tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, bases, and all its equipment.

2. Mahli and Mushi
The sons of Merari, who became the heads of their respective clans within the tribe of Levi. Their descendants were part of the Levitical priesthood, serving in the tabernacle and later in the temple.

3. Levites
The tribe of Levi was set apart for religious duties and service to the tabernacle. They were not given a territorial inheritance like the other tribes of Israel but were instead given cities to dwell in.

4. Clans of the Levites
The Levites were divided into three main clans: the Gershonites, the Kohathites, and the Merarites. Each clan had specific duties related to the tabernacle.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Every Role in God's Work
The Merarites, though not as prominent as the priests, had essential duties. Every role in the body of Christ is vital, and we should value and honor each person's contribution to the church.

Faithfulness in Service
The Merarites' responsibilities required diligence and faithfulness. In our own lives, we are called to be faithful in whatever tasks God has entrusted to us, no matter how small they may seem.

Generational Faithfulness
Mahli and Mushi continued the legacy of their father, Merari. This highlights the importance of passing down faith and service to the next generation, ensuring that God's work continues.

Unity in Diversity
The Levites, though divided into different clans with various duties, worked together for the common purpose of worship. Similarly, the church is made up of diverse members who must work in unity for the glory of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Merarites in the tabernacle service reflect the importance of supporting roles in the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are being faithful in the tasks God has given us, even if they seem insignificant?

3. How can we encourage and equip the next generation to continue in faithful service to God?

4. What are some practical ways we can promote unity within the diverse body of Christ, similar to the cooperation among the Levitical clans?

5. How do the responsibilities of the Merarites in Numbers 4:29-33 inspire us to approach our own responsibilities in the church or community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:16-19
This passage provides the genealogy of Levi, including his sons Gershon, Kohath, and Merari, establishing the foundation for the Levitical clans.

1 Chronicles 6:19, 29
Chronicles lists the descendants of Levi, including Mahli and Mushi, and details their roles in the service of the temple, showing the continuity of their duties from the tabernacle to the temple.

Numbers 4:29-33
This passage outlines the specific duties of the Merarites in the transportation and care of the tabernacle's structural components, emphasizing their role in the community's worship life.