Numbers 3:49 Meaning and Explanation
“And Moses took the redemption money of them that were over and above them that were redeemed by the Levites:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses collected the redemption money from the families of the 263 firstborns exceeding the Levite count.
The Context of Numbers 3:49
Describing Moses' collection of redemption money.
What Does Numbers 3:49 Mean?
Moses acts as the executor of the law. He collects the redemption payment from each family with an unredeemable firstborn—those beyond the Levite substitution. The phrase 'them that were over and above' emphasizes the calculation: how many firstborns remain after the Levite substitution is complete.
This practical action implements the law at ground level. Families must pay or lose their excess sons. The collection process makes the redemption real and binding, not merely theoretical. Moses' role ensures fairness and accountability in the transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 3:49
What does Numbers 3:49 mean?
Moses collected the redemption money from the families of the 263 firstborns exceeding the Levite count.
What is the context of Numbers 3:49?
Describing Moses' collection of redemption money.