Numbers 4:26-28

New English Translation

Footnotes

1. Numbers 4:26 tc This whole clause is not in the Greek text; it is likely missing due to homoioteleuton.
2. Numbers 4:26 tn The work of these people would have been very demanding, since the size and weight of the various curtains and courtyard hangings would have been great. For a detailed discussion of these, see the notes in the book of Exodus on the construction of the items.
3. Numbers 4:27 tn The term “whether” is supplied to introduce the enumerated parts of the explanatory phrase.
4. Numbers 4:27 tn Here again is the use of the noun “burden” in the sense of the loads they were to carry (see the use of carts in Num 7:7).
5. Numbers 4:27 tn The expression is literally “upon/at the mouth of” (עַל־פִּי, ʿal pi); it means that the work of these men would be under the direct orders of Aaron and his sons.
6. Numbers 4:27 tn Or “burden.”
7. Numbers 4:28 tn Or “the direction” (NASB, TEV); Heb “under/by the hand of.” The word “hand” is often used idiomatically for “power” or “authority.” So also in vv. 33, 37, 45, 48.
8. Numbers 4:28 sn The material here suggests that Eleazar had heavier responsibilities than Ithamar, Aaron’s fourth and youngest son. It is the first indication that the Zadokite Levites would take precedence over the Ithamar Levites (see 1 Chr 24:3-6).