Numbers 4:13

13 And they are to take away the burned waste from the altar, and put a purple cloth on it;

Numbers 4:13 Meaning and Commentary

Numbers 4:13

And they shall take away the ashes from the altar, and spread
a purple cloth thereon.
] Having cleared the holy of holies, and the holy place, they were to come forth from thence into the court of the tabernacle, where stood the altar of burnt offering, which is here meant, and on which sacrifices being daily burnt, there were always ashes to be removed; and which at this time was highly necessary to be done, when the tabernacle was taken down, and all belonging to it to be carried away; and though no mention is made of the fire, which was always burning on it, it was doubtless preserved, and care was taken for the carrying it along with the altar, or in a separate vessel from it. Bishop Patrick supposes it might be carried upon the grate.

Numbers 4:13 In-Context

11 On the gold altar they are to put a blue cloth, covering it with a leather cover; and they are to put its rods in their places.

12 All the vessels which are used in the holy place they are to put in a blue cloth, covering them with a leather cover, and put them on the frame.

13 And they are to take away the burned waste from the altar, and put a purple cloth on it;

14 Placing on the cloth all its vessels, the fire-baskets, the meat-hooks, the spades, and the basins; all the vessels of the altar; they are to put a leather cover over all these, and put its rods in their places.

15 And after the holy place and all its vessels have been covered up by Aaron and his sons, when the tents of the people go forward, the sons of Kohath are to come and take it up; but the holy things may not be touched by them for fear of death.