Numbers 31:47 (KJV)

What does Numbers 31:47 mean?

Numbers 31:47 explains that Moses took one out of every fifty people and animals from the Israelites’ share of the war plunder and gave them to the Levites, who were responsible for caring for the tabernacle, just as the LORD had instructed him. This verse describes a specific act of distributing the spoils of war according to God’s command.

Moses is the leader here, carrying out God’s instructions after a military victory over the Midianites. The verse highlights that the Levites, who did not fight in the battle but served in the tabernacle (the portable sanctuary), were given a portion of the spoils to support their work. This arrangement shows the importance of providing for those who served in religious duties, even when they were not directly involved in the battle.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 31:47

• "Levites" (לֵוִיִּי, Leviyyim): This word refers to the tribe set apart for caring for the tabernacle. Their special role is emphasized by receiving a share of the spoils.
• "Kept" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This verb means to guard or take care of. The Levites’ responsibility was to watch over and maintain the tabernacle, showing their ongoing service.
• "Charge" (מִשְׁמֶרֶת, mishmeret): This noun means duty or responsibility. It highlights that the Levites’ work was an official and important task, not just a casual job.

Why Numbers 31:47 matters

• This verse clarifies that the Levites, though not soldiers, were still provided for from the community’s resources, underlining the value placed on spiritual service.
• The specific ratio (“one portion of fifty”) shows an organized and fair system for sharing resources, reflecting careful obedience to God’s instructions.
• Numbers 31:47 connects to the wider passage by showing how the spoils of war were divided not just among the fighters, but also among those who served God in other ways, reinforcing the unity and shared responsibility of the Israelite community.