Topical Encyclopedia Verse: Numbers 1:43 (Berean Standard Bible) · "those registered to the tribe of Naphtali numbered 53,400." Context and Analysis: Numbers 1:43 is part of the larger narrative found in the Book of Numbers, which details the census of the Israelites conducted in the wilderness of Sinai. This census was commanded by God to Moses and Aaron, as recorded in Numbers 1:1-2, to count all the men of Israel who were able to go to war, from twenty years old and upward. The specific verse, Numbers 1:43, records the number of men from the tribe of Naphtali who were eligible for military service, totaling 53,400. This tribe, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant (Genesis 30:7-8). Significance: The census in Numbers serves several purposes. Primarily, it was a practical measure to organize the Israelites for their journey and conquest of the Promised Land. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). The specific mention of each tribe's numbers underscores the growth and strength of the nation of Israel. For the tribe of Naphtali, the count of 53,400 men highlights their significant contribution to the collective military strength of Israel. This number also provides insight into the relative size and importance of the tribe within the broader community of Israel. Theological Implications: The census underscores God's faithfulness in preserving and multiplying His people despite the challenges they faced in Egypt and the wilderness. It also illustrates the importance of order and organization within the community of God's people, as each tribe had a role and responsibility in the larger mission of entering and possessing the land promised to them. Furthermore, the enumeration of the tribes, including Naphtali, serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Each tribe's inclusion in the census signifies their place in God's plan and their participation in the unfolding story of redemption. Historical and Cultural Context: The tribe of Naphtali, like the other tribes, would later settle in a specific region of the Promised Land, which was located in the northern part of Israel, near the Sea of Galilee. This area became known for its fertile land and strategic location. In the broader narrative of Israel's history, the tribe of Naphtali played various roles, including participation in battles and contributing leaders and judges, such as Barak, who worked alongside Deborah to deliver Israel from Canaanite oppression (Judges 4:6-10). Conclusion: Numbers 1:43, while a brief verse, is part of a foundational moment in Israel's history. It reflects God's providence, the importance of community and order, and the fulfillment of divine promises. The tribe of Naphtali, with its 53,400 men, stands as a testament to the strength and faithfulness of God's people as they prepared to enter the land He had set before them. Concordance 53400 (2 Occurrences)Numbers 1:43 Numbers 2:30 Thesaurus 53400 (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance 53400 (2 Occurrences). Numbers 1:43 those who were numbered of them, of the tribe of Naphtali, were fifty-three thousand four hundred. ... /num/53400.htm - 6k Naphtali (51 Occurrences) 52700 (1 Occurrence) 54400 (2 Occurrences) Asher (43 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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