Matthew Henry on Numbers 8:5–end
We read before of the separating of the Levites from among the children of Israel when they were numbered, and the numbering of them by themselves (Num 3:6, Num 3:15), that they might be employed in the service of the tabernacle. Now here we have directions given for their solemn ordination (Num 8:6), and the performance of it, Num 8:20. All Israel must know that they took not this honour to themselves, but were called of God to it; nor was it enough that they were distinguished from their neighbours, but they must be solemnly devoted to God. Note, All that are employed for God must be dedicated to him, according as the degree of employment is. Christian musts be baptized, ministers must be…
Read the whole note in the consoleJamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 8:15
after that, shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation--into the court, to assist the priests; and at removal into the tabernacle--that is, into the door of it--to receive the covered furniture.
John Gill on Numbers 8:17
For all the firstborn of the children of Israel are mine,
both men and beasts,.... Not only in common with other of his creatures, but in a special respect on account of his signal deliverance of them; they were his, as Jarchi expresses it, by the line of judgment, or rule of justice and equity, because he protected them among the firstborn of the Egyptians, saved them when he slew theirs, as follows:
in the day that I smote every firstborn in the land of Egypt; both of men and beasts:
I sanctified them for myself; claimed them as his own, and set them apart for his own use, or ordered them to be set apart: see Exodus 13:2.
John Calvin on Numbers 8:5-19
Numbers 8:5-19, 23-26
5. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5. Loquutusque est praeterea Jehova ipsi Mosi, dicendo:
6. Take the Levites from among the children of Israel, and cleanse them.
6. Cape Levitas e medio filiorum Israel, et purifices illos.
7. And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: Sprinkle water of purifying upon them, and let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean.
7. Sic autem facies illis ut purifices illos: sparge super eos aquam purificationis, et transire faciant novaculam super totam carnem suam, laventque vestimenta sua, et purificentur.
8. Then let them take a young bullock with his meat offering, e…
