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Num. 8:1–4 The lampstand is described more fully in Ex. 25:31–40. Its construction is explained in Ex. 37:17–24; see also illustration. This section gives instructions for its operation. The seven lamps . . . give light in front of the lampstand, so that their light shines on the table opposite it in the tabernacle (see illustration). On this table are 12 flat loaves of bread symbolizing the 12 tribes of Israel (Ex. 25:23–30). Light reflects God’s glorious presence (see notes on John 1:4–5; 8:12).
Num. 8:5–22 The Levites took the place of the firstborn Israelites (vv. 16–18). Their cleansing made them fit to be offered to God. The leaders then laid hands on them, symbolizing that the Levites represent the congregation (vv. 9–11). Then, like parts of a sacrifice, they are offered as a wave offering (v. 11). “Sacrificial waving” is usually a side-to-side movement, but how the Levites were “waved” is unclear. Part of the Levites’ job is to guard the tabernacle. They protect the community by preventing an Israelite from approaching the sanctuary incorrectly and thus causing a plague (see v. 19).
Num. 8:23–26 At age 50 Levites were to retire from the duty of the service because carrying the tabernacle was too hard for older men. They could continue as guards (vv. 25–26). In 4:23 Levites start carrying the tabernacle at age 30, but here they start at age 25. Perhaps from the ages of 25 to 30 they were apprentices.
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