Num 3:1-4 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Num 3:1-4:49: 3:1–4:49 The duties of Israel’s priests and Levites included the transportation, assembly, safety, and upkeep of the Tabernacle. The physical arrangement of Israel’s tribes reflected concern for these activities. Summary for Num 3:1-4: 3:1-4 The family line of Aaron provided the professional priests who led Israel’s worship. Aaron’s four sons were the foundation of Israel’s priesthood; they stood in God’s presence and served him on behalf of the people. They were appointed to lead the people and serve the Lord as ministers in the Tabernacle and as guardians of God’s covenant with his people.

a3:1–4:49►

b3:1-4►

c3:4►

dLev 10:1-2►

eNum 26:61►

fLev 16:1►

g1 Chr 24:2►

hActs 5:1-11►

i1 Cor 10:6-11►

j11:29-30►

‏ Numbers 3:1-4

Summary for Num 3:1-4:49: 3:1–4:49 ^a The duties of Israel’s priests and Levites included the transportation, assembly, safety, and upkeep of the Tabernacle. The physical arrangement of Israel’s tribes reflected concern for these activities.
Summary for Num 3:1-4: 3:1-4 ^b The family line of Aaron provided the professional priests who led Israel’s worship. Aaron’s four sons were the foundation of Israel’s priesthood; they stood in God’s presence and served him on behalf of the people. They were appointed to lead the people and serve the Lord as ministers in the Tabernacle and as guardians of God’s covenant with his people.
3:4 ^c The deaths of Nadab and Abihu (see Lev 10:1-2 ^d) highlighted the importance of guarding the holiness of the sanctuary and of strict obedience to God’s instructions (Num 26:61 ^e; Lev 16:1 ^f; 1 Chr 24:2 ^g; cp. Acts 5:1-11 ^h; 1 Cor 10:6-11 ⁱ; 11:29-30 ^j).

• Eleazar and Ithamar: See profile for Eleazar at end of chapter.