Numbers 4:11 - “On the golden altar they shall spread a blue cloth, and cover it with a covering of sealskin, and shall put in its poles.
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What does "Numbers 4:11" mean?
This verse, Numbers 4:11, is part of a set of instructions given to the Kohathites, a specific family within the Levites, regarding their responsibilities during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It details how they were to carefully pack and transport the items used in the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that housed God's presence. Let's break down the meaning:
"On the golden altar they shall spread a blue cloth...": The "golden altar" refers to the altar of incense, which stood in the Holy Place within the Tabernacle. Before transporting it, the Kohathites were to cover it with a blue cloth. The color blue was significant, often associated with the heavens and divinity. This act of covering was a sign of respect and reverence for the sacred object.
"...and cover it with a covering of sealskin...": After the blue cloth, a covering made of "sealskin" was placed over it. The Hebrew word translated as "sealskin" is tachash (תחשׁ). Its exact meaning is uncertain. Some scholars believe it refers to the hide of a dugong (a sea mammal) or some other type of marine animal available in the region. Others suggest it might have been tanned leather or a specifically dyed and treated hide. Whatever the material, the purpose of this outer covering was to protect the altar from damage and the elements during transport. Sealskin, or its equivalent, would have been durable and potentially waterproof.
"...and shall put in its poles.": This refers to inserting the carrying poles into the rings attached to the altar. This allowed the Kohathites to carry the altar on their shoulders, as instructed in other parts of the chapter.
In summary, the verse outlines a specific procedure for packing the golden altar for transport:
1. Blue Cloth: A reverent covering, signifying the altar's sacred nature.
2. Sealskin Covering: A protective layer against damage and the elements during travel.
3. Poles Inserted: Readying the altar for carrying by the Kohathites.
Significance:
Reverence and Respect: The meticulous packing process demonstrates the high regard the Israelites were to have for the items used in the Tabernacle.
Protection: The multiple layers of covering ensured the sacred objects were protected from damage and defilement during their journey.
Order and Organization: These instructions highlight the importance of order and careful planning in serving God. Every detail, even in the mundane task of packing, was to be done with precision and care.
Limited Access: The coverings also served to conceal the sacred objects from the view of unauthorized people. Only the designated Levites were permitted to handle or even see these holy items.
This verse, therefore, is not merely a logistical instruction, but a demonstration of the Israelites' commitment to honoring God and safeguarding the symbols of His presence among them.
Numbers 4:11 - “On the golden altar they shall spread a blue cloth, and cover it with a covering of sealskin, and shall put in its poles.
What does "Numbers 4:11" mean?
This verse, Numbers 4:11, is part of a set of instructions given to the Kohathites, a specific family within the Levites, regarding their responsibilities during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It details how they were to carefully pack and transport the items used in the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that housed God's presence. Let's break down the meaning:
"On the golden altar they shall spread a blue cloth...": The "golden altar" refers to the altar of incense, which stood in the Holy Place within the Tabernacle. Before transporting it, the Kohathites were to cover it with a blue cloth. The color blue was significant, often associated with the heavens and divinity. This act of covering was a sign of respect and reverence for the sacred object.
"...and cover it with a covering of sealskin...": After the blue cloth, a covering made of "sealskin" was placed over it. The Hebrew word translated as "sealskin" is tachash (תחשׁ). Its exact meaning is uncertain. Some scholars believe it refers to the hide of a dugong (a sea mammal) or some other type of marine animal available in the region. Others suggest it might have been tanned leather or a specifically dyed and treated hide. Whatever the material, the purpose of this outer covering was to protect the altar from damage and the elements during transport. Sealskin, or its equivalent, would have been durable and potentially waterproof.
"...and shall put in its poles.": This refers to inserting the carrying poles into the rings attached to the altar. This allowed the Kohathites to carry the altar on their shoulders, as instructed in other parts of the chapter.
In summary, the verse outlines a specific procedure for packing the golden altar for transport:
1. Blue Cloth: A reverent covering, signifying the altar's sacred nature.
2. Sealskin Covering: A protective layer against damage and the elements during travel.
3. Poles Inserted: Readying the altar for carrying by the Kohathites.
Significance:
Reverence and Respect: The meticulous packing process demonstrates the high regard the Israelites were to have for the items used in the Tabernacle.
Protection: The multiple layers of covering ensured the sacred objects were protected from damage and defilement during their journey.
Order and Organization: These instructions highlight the importance of order and careful planning in serving God. Every detail, even in the mundane task of packing, was to be done with precision and care.
Limited Access: The coverings also served to conceal the sacred objects from the view of unauthorized people. Only the designated Levites were permitted to handle or even see these holy items.
This verse, therefore, is not merely a logistical instruction, but a demonstration of the Israelites' commitment to honoring God and safeguarding the symbols of His presence among them.