Context and Content:

Numbers 26:14 is part of the census recorded in the Book of Numbers, specifically detailing the descendants of the tribe of Simeon. The verse reads: "These were the clans of Simeon, and there were 22,200 men."

Historical Background:

The Book of Numbers, the fourth book of the Pentateuch, is traditionally attributed to Moses. It chronicles the experiences of the Israelites as they journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab, on the brink of entering the Promised Land. Numbers 26 is significant as it records the second census of the Israelites, taken after a generation had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience and lack of faith (Numbers 14:29-35).

Tribe of Simeon:

The tribe of Simeon, named after the second son of Jacob and Leah, is one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In the first census recorded in Numbers 1, the tribe of Simeon had 59,300 men (Numbers 1:23). By the time of the second census in Numbers 26, their numbers had decreased significantly to 22,200 men. This dramatic reduction in numbers is notable and has been the subject of various interpretations and discussions among biblical scholars.

Interpretation and Significance:

The decrease in the population of the tribe of Simeon may be attributed to several factors, including the divine judgment that fell upon Israel due to their sins, such as the incident at Peor (Numbers 25), where many Israelites were led astray into idolatry and immorality. The tribe of Simeon is often associated with this event, as Phinehas, the grandson of Aaron, intervened to stop the plague that resulted from God's anger (Numbers 25:7-9).

The census in Numbers 26 serves multiple purposes. It prepares the Israelites for the conquest of Canaan by organizing them for military engagement and for the distribution of the land among the tribes. The census also reflects God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people despite their repeated failures and disobedience.

Theological Reflection:

From a theological perspective, the census underscores the themes of divine judgment and mercy. While the Israelites faced consequences for their rebellion, God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob remained steadfast. The preservation and continuation of the tribes, including Simeon, highlight God's enduring commitment to His people and His plan for their future.

The reduction in the numbers of the tribe of Simeon serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the importance of faithfulness to God's commands. It also illustrates the broader biblical narrative of redemption, where despite human failure, God's purposes ultimately prevail.

Conclusion:

Numbers 26:14, within the context of the second census, provides insight into the historical and spiritual journey of the Israelites. It reflects the challenges faced by the tribe of Simeon and serves as a testament to the enduring faithfulness of God amidst human frailty. This passage invites readers to consider the consequences of disobedience and the hope found in God's unwavering promises.22200 (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:14
These are the families of the Simeonites, twenty-two thousand two hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

22200 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 22200 (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:14 These are the families
of the Simeonites, twenty-two thousand two hundred. (See NAS NIV). ...
/num/22200.htm - 6k

22273 (1 Occurrence)

/num/22273.htm - 6k

22034 (1 Occurrence)

/num/22034.htm - 6k

Simeon (48 Occurrences)
... statistics in Numbers 1:22, where the Simeonites are given as 59,300, compared with
the 2nd census (Numbers 26:14), where the numbers are 22,200, indicate a ...
/s/simeon.htm - 35k

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