Bible Verse Meaning: Numbers 4:36

Verse Context: Numbers 4:36 states, "And those that were numbered of them, according to the number of all the males, from a month old and upward, were six thousand and two hundred." This verse is a part of the census taken by Moses of the sons of Merari, which was conducted during the Israelites' journey in the wilderness.

General Interpretation:

The census represents God's care for His people and the organization of worship. Each tribe and family has specific responsibilities, and the numbering of the male descendants signifies the importance of their role in the society of Israel. This verse reflects themes of order, community, and responsibility.

Key Insights from Commentaries:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Matthew Henry emphasizes that this numbering shows God's precise knowledge of His people. He elaborates on how the number of men available for service indicates the readiness of the nation to fulfill God's commands. Henry also notes how this organization underscores God’s providential care.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Adam Clarke highlights the significance of the tribe of Merari, whose responsibilities included the care of the tabernacle's boards and other structural elements. Clarke suggests this emphasizes the necessity of each individual’s role within the community and how vital their functions contribute to the worship of God.

• Albert Barnes' Commentary:

  Albert Barnes reflects on the fact that the numbering, particularly of ages from one month, indicates a comprehensive inclusion of the next generation. Barnes points out that this illustrates the continuity of God’s promise and the enduring lineage of His covenant with Israel.

Bible Cross-References:

• Exodus 30:12: This verse highlights the importance of each person counted in the census as a means of atonement.
• Numbers 1:2: This verse speaks to the initiation of a census among the Israelites, showing the base establishment for the order of the camp.
• 1 Chronicles 23:28: This reference elaborates on the duties of the Levites, paralleling the roles assigned through the census taken in Numbers.
• Psalm 78:68-70: These verses reflect on God's choices for leadership, reinforcing the concept of divine selection and responsibility within the Israelite community.
• Jeremiah 31:36: This speaks to God's unbreakable covenant which has underlain His dealings with Israel, resonating with the significance of those counted.
• Hebrews 3:2: This verse mentions faithfulness in mission, mirroring the commitment reflected in the census of service of the Levites.
• Luke 2:1-3: The mention of a census during the time of Jesus links historical records and the significance of counting people, emphasizing its continued relevance.

Connections to Other Bible Themes:

This verse illustrates various thematic connections within the Bible:

• Divine Order: The structured approach to counting and organizing the people reflects God's nature of establishing order in chaos.
• Community Responsibility: Each person's role underscores the importance of collective responsibility towards worship and service to God.
• Covenant Relationship: The counting, particularly with emphasis on male descendants, reflects God's ongoing promise and commitment to the lineage of Israel.

How to Use Bible Cross-References:

To deepen understanding, utilizing cross-references can illuminate the connections between Scriptures:

• Identify Thematic Links: Recognize how Numbers 4:36 ties with themes of organization and service in worship.
• Connect Old and New Testaments: Explore how the principles established in Numbers echo into the New Testament teachings about community and faithfulness.
• Comparative Analysis: Use cross-references for a comparative study of God’s instructions across different contexts within the Bible.

Conclusion:

Numbers 4:36 serves vital lessons for readers today regarding God's attention to detail in our lives and the individual importance of each community member. Understanding this verse through public domain commentaries enriches its interpretation and reveals deeper truths about God’s nature and His meticulous care for those He calls.