And of the children of Israel's half, thou shalt take one portion of fifty, of the persons, of the beeves, of the asses, and of the flocks, of all manner of beasts, and give them unto the Levites, which keep the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD.
NUMBERS 31:30KJVWhat does Numbers 31:30 mean?
Numbers 31:30 instructs that from the Israelites’ share of the war spoils, one out of every fifty people and animals—specifically cattle, donkeys, sheep, and all kinds of livestock—should be given to the Levites, who are responsible for caring for the tabernacle of the LORD. This command sets aside a portion of the community’s gain to support those serving in religious duties.
In this verse, Moses is speaking to the Israelites after a military victory, giving directions on how to divide the spoils. The Levites, who do not receive land like the other tribes, are supported by these offerings because they maintain the tabernacle (the central place of worship). The verse highlights the practical way the community provided for its religious leaders and the importance placed on the tabernacle’s care.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 31:30
- "portion" (חֵלֶק, ḥēleq): This word means a share or part set aside. Here, it emphasizes that the Levites’ support comes directly from the community’s resources, not from separate wealth.
- "Levites" (לֵוִי, lēwī): The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious service. Mentioning them by name underlines their unique role and dependence on the rest of Israel.
- "keep" (שָׁמַר, shāmar) and "charge" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, mishmeret): Together, these words mean to guard or take care of something entrusted. The Levites’ job was to watch over the tabernacle, a task seen as both a duty and a privilege.
Why Numbers 31:30 matters
- Numbers 31:30 clarifies that the Levites’ support was not optional generosity but a structured part of Israel’s system, showing the community’s shared responsibility for worship.
- This verse connects the practical outcome of war (spoils) with ongoing spiritual life, reminding readers that material gain was to be used for the good of the whole community, not just individuals.
- The instruction ties into the broader passage, where the division of spoils is carefully regulated, reflecting fairness and the importance of every group’s role in Israel’s life.