Old Testament
Numbers 3:47
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 3:47, God instructs the Israelites to collect a specific amount of money, five shekels, for each firstborn male among the people.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Collect 5 shekels for each one, measured by the sanctuary standard — which is 20 gerahs per shekel.
Thou shalt even take five shekels apiece by the poll, after the shekel of the sanctuary shalt thou take them: (the shekel is twenty gerahs:)
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 3:47, God instructs the Israelites to collect a specific amount of money, five shekels, for each firstborn male among the people. This collection is based on the sanctuary's standard, where one shekel equals twenty gerahs. The purpose of this command is to establish a system of redemption for the firstborn, who were considered sacred and set apart for God. This practice highlights the importance of recognizing God's ownership over the firstborn and the need for a monetary equivalent to redeem them. The shekel, a common currency of the time, serves as a tangible way for the Israelites to fulfill their obligation to God. This verse reflects the broader theme of holiness and the significance of dedicating the firstborn to God, as well as the importance of following God's instructions in worship and community life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 3:47 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of dedicating our lives and resources to God. Just as the Israelites were instructed to redeem their firstborn, we too can reflect on what we need to offer back to God in gratitude for His blessings. It encourages us to be intentional in our worship and service.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 3:47 mean?
Numbers 3:47 instructs the Israelites to collect five shekels for each firstborn male, using the sanctuary's standard of measurement. This collection serves as a monetary redemption for the firstborn, emphasizing their sacred status and God's ownership over them.
What is the significance of the shekel in Numbers 3:47?
In Numbers 3:47, the shekel represents a standard currency used for the redemption of the firstborn. It highlights the importance of fulfilling obligations to God in a tangible way, reinforcing the theme of holiness and dedication.
Why were firstborn males redeemed in Numbers 3:47?
Firstborn males were redeemed in Numbers 3:47 because they were considered sacred and set apart for God. This practice underscores the Israelites' recognition of God's ownership and the need to offer a monetary equivalent for their redemption.
What does 'twenty gerahs per shekel' mean in Numbers 3:47?
The phrase 'twenty gerahs per shekel' in Numbers 3:47 indicates the weight standard for the shekel, where one shekel equals twenty gerahs. This measurement was used to ensure consistency in the collection of the required five shekels.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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