Numbers 4:13

Then they shall remove the ashes from the bronze altar, spread a purple cloth over it,

Study Bible

Then they shall remove
This phrase indicates a specific action to be undertaken by the Levites, particularly the Kohathites, who were responsible for the most sacred duties in the Tabernacle. The Hebrew root for "remove" is "sur," which implies a careful and deliberate action. This removal signifies a cleansing process, a necessary preparation for the altar's continued use in worship. It reflects the importance of purity and order in the service of God, reminding believers of the need for spiritual cleansing in their own lives.

the ashes
The ashes are the remnants of the burnt offerings, symbolizing the consumption of the sacrifice by fire, which represents God's acceptance. In Hebrew, "deshen" refers to the ashes or fat, indicating what is left after the offering is made. The removal of ashes is a metaphor for the removal of sin and impurity, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, emphasizing the need for continual renewal and sanctification in the believer's life.

from the bronze altar
The bronze altar, or "mizbeach nechosheth" in Hebrew, was the place of sacrifice located in the outer court of the Tabernacle. Bronze, a symbol of judgment and endurance, underscores the altar's role in atonement and reconciliation with God. Historically, the altar was central to Israelite worship, serving as a constant reminder of the need for sacrifice and the seriousness of sin. For Christians, it prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross.

spread a purple cloth over it
The act of spreading a purple cloth over the altar is rich in symbolism. Purple, derived from the Hebrew "argaman," was a color associated with royalty and wealth, often used in the garments of kings and priests. Covering the altar with a purple cloth signifies the honor and reverence due to God, as well as the sacredness of the objects used in His worship. It also points to the majesty and kingship of Christ, who fulfills the sacrificial system and reigns as the eternal King.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Kohathites
A Levitical family responsible for the care of the sanctuary's most sacred objects, including the bronze altar.

2. The Bronze Altar
A key piece of the Tabernacle used for burnt offerings, symbolizing atonement and worship.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, central to their worship and community life.

4. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites, responsible for instructing the Levites in their duties.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The context in which these instructions were given, as the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reverence
The careful handling of the altar and its ashes underscores the need for reverence in worship. Just as the Kohathites were instructed to treat the altar with respect, believers today are called to approach God with reverence and awe.

Symbolism of Purity
Removing the ashes signifies the need for purity and renewal in our spiritual lives. Just as the altar was cleansed, we are called to regularly examine and purify our hearts before God.

Role of Service
The Kohathites' service highlights the importance of each believer's role in the body of Christ. Every task, no matter how small, contributes to the worship and work of the church.

Continuity of Worship
The use of a purple cloth, a color often associated with royalty and priesthood, points to the continuity of worship from the Old Covenant to the New, where believers are called a royal priesthood.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the removal of ashes from the bronze altar teach us about the importance of maintaining purity in our worship practices today?

2. How can the reverence shown by the Kohathites in handling the altar inform our approach to worship and service in the church?

3. In what ways does the role of the Kohathites in the Tabernacle parallel the responsibilities of believers as described in 1 Peter 2:5?

4. How does the symbolism of the purple cloth used to cover the altar connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's priesthood and kingship?

5. Reflect on a time when you have served in a seemingly small role within your church or community. How does this passage encourage you to view such service as significant in God's eyes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:1-8
Describes the construction of the bronze altar, providing context for its significance and use.

Leviticus 6:10-11
Details the priestly duties concerning the removal of ashes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the altar.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Covenant.

1 Peter 2:5
Relates the priestly duties to the spiritual sacrifices of believers, highlighting the continuity of worship from the Old to the New Testament.