Numbers 4:15
And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the vessels of the sanctuary, as the camp is to set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.
Numbers 4:15 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, it describes the specific duties assigned to the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation. After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all the vessels of the sanctuary in preparation for the camp to set forward, the sons of Kohath are tasked with carrying these sacred items. However, they are strictly instructed not to touch any holy thing, as doing so would result in death. This emphasizes the importance of following precise instructions when handling sacred objects in the tabernacle. The sons of Kohath are entrusted with the responsibility of carrying the burden of these items, but they must do so with utmost respect and reverence. This verse serves as a reminder of the reverence and care required when handling things that are considered holy in the presence of God.
Theological Overview
Further insight into the theological interpretation of this verse reveals the sacred nature of the duties assigned to the sons of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation. The language used, such as "sanctuary" and "holy thing," emphasizes the significance of the objects and tasks within the tabernacle. The instruction that the sons of Kohath must not touch any holy thing underlines the importance of maintaining purity and reverence in the service of God. This directive serves as a reminder of the seriousness of their responsibilities and the need for obedience to God's commands. The word "burden" in this context does not only denote a physical task but also symbolizes the spiritual weight and honor of their service. By exploring the key words and phrases in this verse, one can gain a deeper understanding of the reverence and respect required in serving God within the sacred space of the tabernacle.
Numbers 4:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the sanctuary, and all the furniture of the sanctuary, as the camp is set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear it: but they shall not touch the sanctuary, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the tent of meeting.
World English Bible
“When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary, and all the furniture of the sanctuary, as the camp moves forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to carry it: but they shall not touch the sanctuary, lest they die. These things are the burden of the sons of Kohath in the Tent of Meeting.
Douay-Rheims
And when Aaron and his sons have wrapped up the sanctuary and the vessels thereof at the removing of the camp, then shall the sons of Caath enter in to carry the things wrapped up: and they shall not touch the vessels of the sanctuary, lest they die. These are the burdens of the sons of Caath: in the tabernacle of the covenant:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when Aaron and his sonnes haue made an ende of couering the Sanctuarie, and al the instruments of the Sanctuarie, at the remouing of the host, afterward the sonnes of Kohath shall come to beare it, but they shall not touch any holy thing, lest they dye. This is the charge of the sonnes of Kohath in the Tabernacle of the Congregation.