The Church Fathers on this verse

Numbers 3:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The sons of Merari, Moholi and Musi.

Douay-Rheims

וּבְנֵ֧י מְרָרִ֛י לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֖ם מַחְלִ֣י וּמוּשִׁ֑י אֵ֥לֶּה הֵ֛ם מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת הַלֵּוִ֖י לְבֵ֥ית אֲבֹתָֽם׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

Cyrill of Alexandria

5th centuryChurch Father

I would like to supplement what has already been discussed, as it could contribute to clarity: in the initial register of the Levites (Num. 3: 15 ff.), the descendants of Gershon were mentioned first, followed by those of Kohath, and lastly Merari, representing the lineage of Levi. However, in the subsequent census conducted after twenty-five years (Num. 4), Kohath was listed ahead of the others and recognized first, followed by Gershon and Merari, whose responsibilities pertained to the excess duties of the Tabernacle. Moreover, both Gershon and Merari each had two distinct clans, while Kohath extended to four. Do you grasp the deeper significance of this? Palladius: Not entirely. Cyril: Israel was chosen first, yet when the Gentiles were included, they were placed after Israel.

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Thus, in accordance with the Savior's words, ‘the last will be first, and the first last’ (Matt. 20:16). Palladius: Indeed. Cyril: It is evident that the tribe of Judah is few in number compared to the vast multitude of the Gentiles.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.