At that time the LORD set apart the tribe of Levi to bear the ark of the LORD’s covenant, to stand before the LORD to minister to him, and to bless in his name, to this day.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 8. Time, during the pontificate of Aaron. Numbers 3:6. Menochius.—God had made this appointment at Sinai, (Exodus 28:1,) where he ordered the tabernacle and the priests to be consecrated. Upon the sedition of Core, which probably took place at Jetebata, he confirmed the rights of the Levitical tribe. Numbers 16:17 and 18. Calmet.—Ark. The priests carried it, on more solemn occasions, (Joshua 3:3,) as they also blessed the people. Menochius.—Yet the Levites sung the praises of God, in which sense the word is often used, 1 Chronicles 23:13. Hence Castalio translates, “to celebrate his name.”