The Church Fathers on this verse

Numbers 18:5Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Watch ye in the charge of the sanctuary, and in the ministry of the altar: lest indignation rise upon the children of Israel.

Douay-Rheims

וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֗ם אֵ֚ת מִשְׁמֶ֣רֶת הַקֹּ֔דֶשׁ וְאֵ֖ת מִשְׁמֶ֣רֶת הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חַ וְלֹֽא־יִהְיֶ֥ה ע֛וֹד קֶ֖צֶף עַל־בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

Cyrill of Alexandria

5th centuryChurch Father

The Levites are thus designated as collaborators and, in a sense, servants to the priestly order. It is stated that they are to be vigilant for Aaron and oversee the responsibilities associated with the tabernacle of the assembly, as well as watch over the people of Israel. This appointment suggests a supportive role. Aaron and his sons are placed in charge of the tabernacle, with the directive that they safeguard all that pertains to the tabernacle of the assembly, including the inner veil, which signifies the sacred and enigmatic elements, in addition to all that pertains to those who approach the Divine altar. This imagery clearly points to Christ, whom the Father has appointed over His house, which, as stated, comprises us (Heb. 3:6).

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.