Numbers 3:16

Verse

Berean Standard Bible

So Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he had been commanded.

American Standard Version (1901)

And Moses numbered them according to the word of Jehovah, as he was commanded.

Bible in Basic English

So Moses did as the Lord said, numbering them as he had been ordered.

Free Bible Version

So Moses registered them following the Lord's instructions, just as he had been told.

King James (Authorized) Version

And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded.

One Unity Resource Bible

Moses [Drawn out] counted them according to Adonai ’s word, as he was enjoined.

Translation for Translators

So Moses/I counted them, just as Yahweh commanded.

Unlocked Literal Bible

Moses counted them, following the word of Yahweh, just as he was commanded to do.

Noah Webster Bible

And Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he was commanded.

World English Bible

Moses counted them according to Yahweh’s word, as he was commanded.

Young's Literal Translation

And Moses numbereth them according to the command of Jehovah, as he hath been commanded.

Context

The Numbering of the Levites

¹⁵“Number the Levites by their families and clans. You are to count every male a month old or more.”¹⁶So Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he had been commanded.

Summary

In Numbers 3:16, the verse highlights the specific duties assigned to Moses and Aaron regarding the care of the Tabernacle and the Israelites. It emphasizes the importance of their roles as leaders and mediators between the people and God. This verse underscores the significance of obedience and order in carrying out the responsibilities related to the worship and service of God. By delineating the division of labor within the priesthood, it establishes a system of accountability and reverence for the sacred tasks entrusted to them. Ultimately, Numbers 3:16 showcases the divine organization and structure set in place for the spiritual well-being of the community.

Commentary

Adam Clarke
John Gill

Adam Clarke Bible Commentary

Moses numbered them - Though Moses and Aaron conjointly numbered the twelve tribes, yet Moses alone numbered the Levites; "for as the money with which the first-born of Israel, who exceeded the number of Levites, were redeemed, was to be paid to Aaron and his sons, Num 3:48, it was decent that he, whose advantage it was that the number of the first-born of Israel should exceed, should not be authorized to take that number himself." - Dodd, from Bishop Kidder.

Numbers 3:16

The Numbering of the Levites

¹⁵“Number the Levites by their families and clans. You are to count every male a month old or more.”¹⁶So Moses numbered them according to the word of the LORD, as he had been commanded.