Old Testament
Numbers 3:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The total number of Levite males 1 month old or older, counted by Moses and Aaron at the LORD's command and organized by clan, was 22,000.
Compare translations
All that were numbered of the Levites, which Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of the LORD, throughout their families, all the males from a month old and upward, were twenty and two thousand.
What Numbers 3:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses and Aaron conducted a census of the Levite males who were one month old or older, as instructed by God. The total count came to 22,000 individuals. This counting was significant because the Levites were set apart for special duties related to the Tabernacle and the worship of God. Their role was crucial in maintaining the spiritual and physical aspects of the Israelite community. The organization by clan indicates a structured approach to their responsibilities, ensuring that each family had a specific role in the service of the Lord. This verse highlights the importance of order and accountability in the community of Israel, as well as the value placed on the Levites in their service to God.
How to apply Numbers 3:39 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of structure and organization in our communities and spiritual lives. Just as the Levites were counted and assigned roles, we too should recognize our unique contributions and responsibilities within our communities, serving with purpose and dedication.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 3:39
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 3:39
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 3:39 mean?
Numbers 3:39 describes a census of Levite males conducted by Moses and Aaron, totaling 22,000 individuals. This count was done at God's command and highlights the Levites' special role in serving the Tabernacle and the Israelite community.
What is the significance of the Levites in Numbers 3:39?
In Numbers 3:39, the Levites are significant because they were set apart for specific duties related to worship and the Tabernacle. Their organization by clan reflects the importance of structure and accountability in their service to God.
Why were the Levites counted in Numbers 3:39?
The Levites were counted in Numbers 3:39 to determine their number for service in the Tabernacle, as instructed by God. This census ensured that each clan had designated roles in maintaining the spiritual life of the Israelite community.
What does the term 'one month old or older' mean in Numbers 3:39?
The term 'one month old or older' in Numbers 3:39 indicates that all male Levites from the age of one month were included in the census. This age requirement emphasizes the importance of the Levites from a young age in their roles within the community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.