The Census of the Simeonites refers to the enumeration of the tribe of Simeon as recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. This census is significant as it provides insight into the demographics and changes within the tribe during the Israelites' wilderness journey.

First Census: Numbers 1

The first census of the Israelites, including the tribe of Simeon, is detailed in Numbers 1. This census was commanded by God to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai, in the second year after the Exodus from Egypt. The purpose was to count all the men of Israel who were able to go to war, from twenty years old and upward.

In Numbers 1:22-23 , the census of the tribe of Simeon is recorded: "From the sons of Simeon: their genealogies according to their clans and families, those numbered individually by name, every male twenty years of age or older, everyone who could serve in the army, those registered to the tribe of Simeon numbered 59,300."

This initial count places the Simeonites as one of the larger tribes, reflecting their significant role within the Israelite community.

Second Census: Numbers 26

The second census occurs nearly 40 years later, as the Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land. This census, recorded in Numbers 26, was also commanded by God to Moses and Eleazar the priest, following a devastating plague that struck the Israelites.

In Numbers 26:12-14 , the results for the tribe of Simeon are given: "These were the descendants of Simeon by their clans: The Nemuelite clan from Nemuel, the Jaminite clan from Jamin, the Jakinite clan from Jakin, the Zerahite clan from Zerah, and the Shaulite clan from Shaul. These were the clans of Simeon, and there were 22,200 men."

The dramatic decrease in the number of Simeonites—from 59,300 to 22,200—has been a subject of much discussion among biblical scholars. Various interpretations suggest reasons for this decline, including the possibility of divine judgment due to sin, as seen in the incident at Peor (Numbers 25), where Simeonites may have been involved.

Tribal Characteristics and Role

The tribe of Simeon, named after the second son of Jacob and Leah, held a unique position among the tribes of Israel. Historically, Simeon was known for its fierce and zealous nature, as reflected in the blessing and prophecy of Jacob in Genesis 49:5-7. The tribe's territory was eventually located within the boundaries of Judah, as described in Joshua 19:1-9, indicating a close relationship between these two tribes.

The census data highlights the fluctuating fortunes of the Simeonites and serves as a reminder of the consequences of faithfulness and disobedience to God's commands. The tribe's history is interwoven with themes of judgment, redemption, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.