The Church Fathers on this verse

Numbers 31:54Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

And that which was received they brought into the tabernacle of the testimony, for a memorial of the children of Israel before the Lord.

Douay-Rheims

וַיִּקַּ֨ח מֹשֶׁ֜ה וְאֶלְעָזָ֤ר הַכֹּהֵן֙ אֶת־הַזָּהָ֔ב מֵאֵ֛ת שָׂרֵ֥י הָאֲלָפִ֖ים וְהַמֵּא֑וֹת וַיָּבִ֤אוּ אֹתוֹ֙ אֶל־אֹ֣הֶל מוֹעֵ֔ד זִכָּר֥וֹן לִבְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לִפְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Cyrill of Alexandria

5th centuryChurch Father

Moses and Aaron are noted for presenting offerings in the sacred tabernacle, highlighting that the virtuous actions of holy individuals are treasured by Christ. These acts serve as treasures and glorious tributes, granting them an eternal remembrance and making them deserving of Divine favor. The phrase indicating that the gifts were presented before the Lord suggests this meaning. To stand in the presence of God is indeed a profound privilege, as God bestows immense honor upon those He allows to behold His glorious face. Palladius. From the insights shared so far, it becomes clear that the act of offering gifts to God is most fitting for those who are bold and are accustomed to receiving honor. Cyril. Indeed, Palladius; your understanding is spot on. This understanding is not only evident through reason but is also affirmed by the Holy Scriptures.

Ephraem the Syrian

4th centuryChurch Father

Immanuel, after instructing the apostles and saints, led them into the concealed splendor of the heavenly Tabernacle.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.