Numbers 3:1 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

These also are the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day that the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.

These also are the generations ..., х towlªdowt (H8435)] - (see the notes at Genesis 2:4; Genesis 5:1; Genesis 10:1, etc.) This chapter contains an account of their families; and although that of Moses is not detailed like his brother's, his children are included under the general designation of the Amramites (Numbers 3:27) - a term which comprehends all the descendants of their common father, Amram. The reason why the family of Moses was so undistinguished in this record is, that they were in the private ranks of the Levites, the dignity of the priesthood being conferred exclusively on the posterity of Aaron; and hence, as the sacerdotal order is the subject of this chapter, Aaron, contrary to the usual style of the sacred history, is mentioned before Moses.

In the day that the Lord ... This is added, because at the date of the following record the family of Aaron was unbroken.

Numbers 3:1

1 These also are the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day that the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.