Old Testament
Numbers 31:47
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From the community's half, Moses took 1 out of every 50 — both people and animals — and gave them to the Levites who maintained the LORD's tabernacle, just as the LORD had commanded.
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Even of the children of Israel’s half, Moses took one portion of fifty, both of man and of beast, and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD; as the LORD commanded Moses.
What Numbers 31:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses is following God's command regarding the distribution of spoils after a battle. From the half of the spoils that belonged to the Israelites, he takes one out of every fifty people and animals and gives them to the Levites. The Levites were responsible for the care of the tabernacle, which was the central place of worship for the Israelites. This act emphasizes the importance of supporting those who serve in spiritual leadership and maintaining the worship of God. It also reflects the principle of giving back a portion of what one receives, acknowledging that all blessings ultimately come from God. By doing this, Moses ensures that the Levites, who had no land of their own, are provided for, highlighting the community's responsibility to care for its spiritual leaders and the importance of obedience to God's commands.
How to apply Numbers 31:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to support our spiritual leaders and institutions. Just as the Israelites provided for the Levites, we should consider how we can contribute to our communities and churches. This can be through financial support, volunteering, or simply acknowledging the work of those who serve in spiritual capacities.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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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 31:47 mean?
Numbers 31:47 describes how Moses distributed the spoils of war by taking one out of every fifty people and animals from the Israelites' share and giving them to the Levites. This act was in obedience to God's command and highlights the importance of supporting those who serve in spiritual leadership.
What is the significance of the Levites in Numbers 31:47?
In Numbers 31:47, the Levites are significant because they were responsible for maintaining the tabernacle, the central place of worship for the Israelites. By giving them a portion of the spoils, Moses ensured that they were provided for, reflecting the community's duty to support its spiritual leaders.
What does the phrase 'one out of every fifty' mean in Numbers 31:47?
The phrase 'one out of every fifty' in Numbers 31:47 indicates that for every fifty people and animals taken from the spoils, one was set aside for the Levites. This systematic approach ensured fair distribution while fulfilling God's command.
How can we apply Numbers 31:47 today?
We can apply Numbers 31:47 by supporting our spiritual leaders and institutions, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or recognizing their efforts. This verse encourages us to acknowledge the role of those who serve in spiritual capacities and to fulfill our community responsibilities.
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