And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.
When it's time to move the tabernacle, the Levites will take it apart and pack it up. When it's time to set up camp, the Levites will put it back together. Any outsider who comes too close will be put to death.
God is establishing that only the Levites are allowed to handle the sacred tabernacle, and unauthorized people who get too close will face death.
📚 Historical Context
This instruction was given during Israel's wilderness journey after leaving Egypt, when they lived in a portable camp that moved frequently. The tabernacle was God's dwelling place among His people and required careful handling according to strict religious laws. The Levites were the priestly tribe specifically chosen by God to serve in religious duties and care for the sacred objects.
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