Numbers 3:38

Moses, Aaron, and Aaron's sons were to camp to the east of the tabernacle, toward the sunrise, before the Tent of Meeting. They were to perform the duties of the sanctuary as a service on behalf of the Israelites; but any outsider who approached the sanctuary was to be put to death.

Study Bible

The area in front of the tabernacle
This phrase refers to the specific location designated for the leadership of Israel. The tabernacle, a portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, was central to their worship and community life. The Hebrew word for "tabernacle" is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." This highlights the sacredness of the area, as it was where God's presence was most intimately encountered.

on the east, toward the sunrise
The eastward orientation is significant in biblical symbolism. The east often represents new beginnings, hope, and divine intervention, as the sunrise marks the start of a new day. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the east was also associated with life and renewal. This positioning underscores the hope and renewal that God's presence brings to His people.

was reserved for Moses, Aaron, and his sons
Moses and Aaron, along with Aaron's sons, were chosen by God for leadership and priestly duties. The Hebrew root for "reserved" implies a setting apart for a holy purpose. This highlights the divine selection and consecration of these leaders, emphasizing their unique role in mediating between God and the Israelites.

who were responsible for the duties of the sanctuary
The "duties of the sanctuary" refer to the sacred responsibilities of maintaining the tabernacle and conducting worship. The Hebrew word for "duties" is "מִשְׁמֶרֶת" (mishmeret), meaning "guard" or "charge." This indicates a vigilant and faithful stewardship required of the priests, reflecting their role in preserving the sanctity of worship and the community's relationship with God.

and for the Israelites
This phrase underscores the mediatory role of Moses, Aaron, and his sons. They were not only responsible for the sanctuary but also for the spiritual well-being of the entire Israelite community. This dual responsibility highlights the interconnectedness of worship and community life in Israel's covenant relationship with God.

Anyone else who approached the sanctuary
The exclusivity of access to the sanctuary is emphasized here. The Hebrew word for "approached" is "קָרַב" (qarab), meaning "to come near" or "to draw near." This indicates the holiness of the sanctuary and the need for proper consecration and authority to enter God's presence.

was to be put to death
This severe consequence underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him without proper authorization. The Hebrew root for "put to death" is "מוּת" (muth), which conveys the ultimate penalty for transgressing divine boundaries. This serves as a sobering reminder of the reverence and respect required in worship and the sanctity of God's dwelling place among His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and the first high priest of Israel, responsible for the priestly duties and the spiritual leadership of the people.

3. Aaron’s Sons
The descendants of Aaron who served as priests, assisting in the duties of the sanctuary.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites, central to their worship and community life.

5. The Tent of Meeting
Another term for the Tabernacle, emphasizing its role as the place where God met with Moses and the priests.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
God established a specific order for the Israelites' worship, emphasizing the need for reverence and obedience in approaching Him.

The Role of Leadership in Spiritual Matters
Moses, Aaron, and his sons were given significant responsibilities, illustrating the importance of godly leadership in guiding and maintaining the spiritual health of a community.

The Holiness of God and the Sanctity of the Sanctuary
The severe consequence for unauthorized access to the sanctuary underscores the holiness of God and the need for purity and respect in worship.

The Symbolism of the East and the Sunrise
The positioning of the camp toward the east, where the sun rises, can symbolize new beginnings and the hope found in God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the specific placement of Moses, Aaron, and his sons around the Tabernacle teach us about the organization of spiritual leadership in our own communities?

2. How can we apply the principles of reverence and holiness in our personal and corporate worship today?

3. In what ways does the role of the priests in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Christ as our High Priest?

4. How does understanding the structure and duties of the Tabernacle enhance our appreciation for the New Covenant described in the book of Hebrews?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our approach to God in worship is respectful and aligned with His holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the setting up of the Tabernacle and the consecration of Aaron and his sons, establishing their roles in the sanctuary.

Leviticus 10
Details the importance of the priestly duties and the consequences of approaching the sanctuary improperly, as seen in the account of Nadab and Abihu.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the role of the earthly sanctuary as a shadow of the heavenly realities, highlighting the significance of the priestly duties.