The census of the Reubenites is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. This census is part of a broader enumeration of the tribes of Israel, which God commanded Moses to undertake during the Israelites' wilderness journey after their exodus from Egypt. The tribe of Reuben, being the descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, holds a notable place in the history of Israel.

Biblical Context

The first census of the Reubenites is documented in Numbers 1:20-21. This census was conducted in the second year after the Israelites' departure from Egypt, while they were encamped in the Wilderness of Sinai. The purpose of this census was to organize the Israelites for military service and to establish the order of the camp.

According to Numbers 1:20-21 , "From the descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Israel, all the men twenty years of age or older who could serve in the army were registered by name, one by one, according to the records of their clans and families. The number from the tribe of Reuben totaled 46,500."

This enumeration was crucial for the organization of the Israelite camp and for preparing the people for the conquest of the Promised Land. The tribe of Reuben, as the firstborn, was counted first among the tribes, reflecting its position in the family hierarchy.

Second Census

A second census of the Reubenites is recorded in Numbers 26:5-7, which took place near the end of the Israelites' 40-year journey in the wilderness, on the plains of Moab by the Jordan River across from Jericho. This census was necessary to prepare the new generation of Israelites for entering Canaan, as the previous generation had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience.

Numbers 26:5-7 states, "These were the descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Israel: The Hanochite clan from Hanoch, the Palluite clan from Pallu, the Hezronite clan from Hezron, and the Carmite clan from Carmi. These were the clans of Reuben, and their registration numbered 43,730."

The decrease in numbers from the first census (46,500) to the second (43,730) reflects the impact of the wilderness wanderings and the divine judgments that befell the Israelites during this period.

Significance

The censuses of the Reubenites, like those of the other tribes, underscore the importance of order, organization, and preparation in the life of the Israelite community. They also highlight the faithfulness of God in preserving His people despite their frequent disobedience and the challenges they faced in the wilderness.

The tribe of Reuben, although diminished in numbers, continued to play a role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history. The censuses serve as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing themes of obedience, judgment, and divine providence.