Numbers 4 is a chapter in the Old Testament that details the duties and census of the Levites, specifically the Kohathite, Gershonite, and Merarite clans, in their service in the tabernacle.

Summary with Verse Numbers:

1. Census and Duties of the Kohathites (verses 1-20): God instructs Moses and Aaron to take a census of the Kohathite division between the ages of 30 and 50, who are to work in the tent of meeting. Specific tasks include the handling of the most sacred objects as the Israelites break camp. They are to wait for Aaron and his sons to cover the sacred objects before they can touch them or move them, to prevent death.
2. Census and Duties of the Gershonites (verses 21-28): God commands Moses to also count the Gershonites, who are to be responsible for the care of the tabernacle’s fabrics, under the direction of Ithamar, son of Aaron the priest.
3. Census and Duties of the Merarites (verses 29-33): The Merarite clan is also counted and given responsibilities, mainly concerning the tabernacle’s structural elements, under Ithamar’s oversight.
4. Summary of the Levitical Census (verses 34-49): The chapter concludes with the completion of the census. The number of men from each clan fit for service is recorded: 2,750 Kohathites, 2,630 Gershonites, and 3,200 Merarites.

Life Applications:

1. Understanding Roles and Responsibilities: Just as each Levitical family had a specific role, recognizing and respecting the different roles and responsibilities in various life contexts (e.g., family, church, workplace) can promote harmony and efficiency.
2. Importance of Obedience and Reverence: The detailed instructions for handling sacred objects highlight the importance of obedience and reverence towards divine instructions and, by extension, towards things considered sacred or valuable in one’s culture or faith.
3. Preparation and Order: The preparation of the Levites for their tasks teaches the value of being prepared and orderly in our own endeavors, whether spiritual, professional, or personal.
4. Stewardship: The care given to the tabernacle elements reflects the broader principle of stewardship—taking care of what has been entrusted to us, be it possessions, abilities, or relationships.
5. Collaboration in Community: The Levites worked together to fulfill their tasks. Likewise, working together and supporting each other in communities or teams is crucial for achieving common goals.

Numbers 4 emphasizes the sacredness of service and the need for careful preparation and organization in communal worship and, by extension, in any collective undertaking.