What is the meaning of Numbers 26:6?

The Hezronite clan from Hezron

“the Hezronite clan from Hezron” (Numbers 26:6) appears in the second wilderness census taken on the plains of Moab (Numbers 26:2–3).

• Hezron was one of Reuben’s four sons (Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14), so this clause marks literal family descent.

• The census confirms that despite the judgments of the wilderness years (e.g., Numbers 16:1–35), Hezron’s line survived to receive territory when the land would be allotted by lot (Numbers 26:53–55; Joshua 14:4).

• Comparing the first census (46,500 Reubenite men, Numbers 1:20–21) with the second (43,730, Numbers 26:7) shows God’s discipline yet ongoing mercy; the Hezronites share in that story.

• Reuben lost firstborn rights through sin (Genesis 35:22; 1 Chronicles 5:1), yet the inclusion of his clans proves God still numbers and values them.

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The Carmite clan from Carmi

“and the Carmite clan from Carmi” completes the verse, naming the line of another Reubenite son (Genesis 46:9).

• Each clan held its own inheritance portion (Numbers 26:55; Joshua 22:1–4); listing the Carmites guaranteed fair distribution.

• From Jacob’s entry into Egypt (Genesis 46:9) through the exodus (Exodus 6:14) to the threshold of Canaan, God preserved Carmi’s descendants—evidence of covenant faithfulness (Exodus 2:24; 6:8).

• Although some Reubenites joined Korah’s rebellion (Numbers 16:1; 26:9–11), the Carmites who remained loyal are still counted, showing that faithfulness within a tribe brings blessing.

• Later, Reubenite clans—including Carmites—built an altar of witness to affirm unity with the western tribes (Joshua 22:10–34), illustrating how distinct family identities can serve national worship rather than hinder it.

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summary

Numbers 26:6, by naming the Hezronite and Carmite clans, underscores that God tracks real families, disciplines yet preserves them, and prepares each for a rightful share in His promises. Every clan counted stands as living proof that the Lord’s covenant care extends to the smallest branch of His people across generations.