Numbers 3:51 Meaning and Explanation
“And Moses gave the money of them that were redeemed unto Aaron and to his sons, according to the word of the LORD, as the LORD commanded Moses.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses delivered the redemption money to Aaron and his sons, fulfilling God's commandment.
The Context of Numbers 3:51
Concluding the firstborn redemption law with delivery of the collected money to the priesthood.
What Does Numbers 3:51 Mean?
Moses completes the transaction by transferring the redemption money to Aaron and the priests. The payment is made 'according to the word of the LORD'—it flows from divine instruction, not human discretion. The parallel phrases 'according to the word' and 'as the LORD commanded' emphasize obedience to exact divine direction.
The final transfer closes the loop of the law. Families have redeemed their excess sons; the priests have received their rightful portion; God's claim on the firstborn has been satisfied through the Levite substitution and redemption payment. The system achieves its purpose completely and justly.
Numbers 3:51 in the Original Language
word (דָּבָר—dabar), 'word' — not mere speech but command, instruction, and the authoritative expression of divine will.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 3:51
What does Numbers 3:51 mean?
Moses delivered the redemption money to Aaron and his sons, fulfilling God's commandment.
What is the context of Numbers 3:51?
Concluding the firstborn redemption law with delivery of the collected money to the priesthood.