Old Testament
Numbers 4:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 4:6, the instructions for the priests regarding the tabernacle's coverings are detailed.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
then they are to cover the curtain with a durable leather, spread a solid blue cloth over the leather, and put the poles in place.
And shall put thereon the covering of badgers’ skins, and shall spread over it a cloth wholly of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 4:6, the instructions for the priests regarding the tabernacle's coverings are detailed. The verse emphasizes the importance of protecting the sacred items within the tabernacle. First, a durable leather covering is to be placed over the curtain, which serves as a barrier against the elements. This leather is likely intended to provide strength and longevity. Next, a solid blue cloth is spread over the leather, adding a layer of beauty and significance, as blue often symbolizes divinity and heaven. Finally, the poles, or staves, are to be inserted, which are used to carry the tabernacle during the Israelites' journey. This process illustrates the care and reverence required in handling holy things, highlighting the need for both protection and aesthetic value in worship practices.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 4:6 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of treating sacred things with care and respect. In our lives, we should approach our spiritual practices with intentionality, ensuring that we honor what is holy and maintain a sense of reverence in our worship and daily actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 4:6 mean?
Numbers 4:6 provides instructions for covering the tabernacle's curtain with durable leather and a blue cloth, emphasizing the need for protection and reverence for sacred items.
What is the significance of the blue cloth in Numbers 4:6?
The blue cloth in Numbers 4:6 symbolizes divinity and heaven, adding beauty to the tabernacle while also serving a practical purpose in protecting the sacred items.
What are the coverings mentioned in Numbers 4:6?
In Numbers 4:6, the coverings include a durable leather layer over the curtain and a solid blue cloth on top, which together protect the tabernacle's sacred contents.
Why is protection important in Numbers 4:6?
Protection is important in Numbers 4:6 as it highlights the reverence required in handling holy items, ensuring they remain safe during the Israelites' journey.

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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