Bible Strands
Numbers 3:29
The clans of the Kohathites were to camp on the south side of the tabernacle,
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The narrator records Moses' instructions to the Israelite camp regarding the Levitical families' assigned positions around the tabernacle. This directive occurs during the wilderness journey as the tribes organize their encampment.
The words — The Hebrew יַחֲנ֑וּ (ya.cha.Nu) means "they will encamp," and תֵּימָנָה (tei.Ma.na) translates to "southward." These terms specify the Kohathite clans' designated location relative to the sanctuary.
The thread — This southward placement mirrors the Reubenite camp in Numbers 2:10 and contrasts with the Gershonites' western position in Numbers 3:23. The arrangement fulfills the broader command for Levites to surround the tabernacle in Numbers 1:53.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to recognize that sacred service demands precise obedience to divine spatial order. It asks the reader to apply this principle by submitting personal convenience to established spiritual boundaries.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
The families of the sons of Kohath shall pitch on the side of the tabernacle southward.
Cross-references
- Numbers 1:53 But the Levites are to camp around the tabernacle of the Testimony and watch over it, so that no wrath will fall on the congregation of Israel. So the Levites are responsible for the tabernacle of the Testimony.”
- Numbers 2:10 On the south side, the divisions of Reuben are to camp under their standard: The leader of the Reubenites is Elizur son of Shedeur,
- Numbers 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west, behind the tabernacle,