Context and Background:

Numbers 26:50 is part of a larger passage in the Book of Numbers, specifically within the second census of the Israelites. This census was conducted in the plains of Moab by the Jordan River, near Jericho, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land. The purpose of this census was to account for the new generation of Israelites who would inherit the land, as the previous generation had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience and lack of faith.

Verse Text :

Numbers 26:50 · "These were the clans of Naphtali, and their registration numbered 45,400."

Analysis:

1. Tribe of Naphtali:
· The verse specifically mentions the tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Naphtali was the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The tribe of Naphtali is known for its valor and swiftness, as reflected in Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:21, "Naphtali is a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns."

2. Census and Significance:
· The census recorded in Numbers 26 was crucial for organizing the Israelites for both military and inheritance purposes. The number 45,400 represents the men of fighting age within the tribe of Naphtali. This count was essential for determining the military strength of the tribe as they prepared to conquer the land of Canaan.

3. Spiritual Implications:
· The census underscores God's faithfulness in preserving His people despite their previous failures. It highlights the continuity of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring that their descendants would inherit the land. The specific mention of each tribe, including Naphtali, emphasizes the importance of each family and clan in the fulfillment of God's covenant.

4. Theological Reflection:
· This passage invites reflection on the themes of divine providence and human responsibility. While God sovereignly orchestrates the fulfillment of His promises, the Israelites are called to prepare and organize themselves for the task ahead. The census serves as a reminder of the need for order and readiness in the life of faith.

5. Historical and Cultural Context:
· Understanding the historical context of the census helps illuminate the challenges faced by the Israelites. The transition from a nomadic lifestyle in the wilderness to settling in a land flowing with milk and honey required careful planning and trust in God's guidance.

Conclusion:

Numbers 26:50, while seemingly a simple record of numbers, carries profound implications for understanding the faithfulness of God and the preparation of His people. The tribe of Naphtali, along with the other tribes, plays a vital role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's journey to the Promised Land. This verse serves as a testament to God's enduring covenant and the importance of each individual's contribution to the collective mission of God's people.45400 (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:50
These are the families of Naphtali according to their families; and those who were numbered of them were forty-five thousand four hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

45400 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 45400 (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:50 These are
the families of Naphtali according to their families; and ...
/num/45400.htm - 6k

Naphtali (51 Occurrences)
... At the time of the Exodus this tribe numbered 53,400 adult males (Numbers 1:43),
but at the close of the wanderings they numbered only 45,400 (26:48-50). ...
/n/naphtali.htm - 35k

45650 (2 Occurrences)

/num/45650.htm - 6k

44760 (2 Occurrences)

/num/44760.htm - 7k

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