Verse:
"This was the total number of the Israelites: 601,730." (Numbers 26:51)

Context and Background:
Numbers 26:51 is situated within the broader narrative of the Book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Pentateuch. This book, traditionally attributed to Moses, 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 specifically details the second census of the Israelite community, conducted in the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho.

Purpose of the Census:
The census recorded in Numbers 26 serves several purposes. Primarily, it was conducted to ascertain the number of men eligible for military service as the Israelites prepared to enter and conquer the Promised Land. This census also facilitated the equitable division of the land among the tribes, as the land was to be apportioned according to the size of each tribe (Numbers 26:52-56).

Significance of the Number 601,730:
The total number of 601,730 men, aged twenty years and older, reflects the strength and growth of the Israelite nation despite the challenges faced during their wilderness journey. This figure is slightly less than the first census taken at Mount Sinai (Numbers 1:46), which recorded 603,550 men. The slight decrease can be attributed to the divine judgment that fell upon the older generation due to their disobedience and lack of faith, as decreed in Numbers 14:29-35.

Theological Implications:
The census underscores God's faithfulness in preserving His covenant people despite their repeated failures. It highlights the transition from the old generation, which perished in the wilderness, to a new generation poised to inherit the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This passage serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of obedience and faithfulness to His commands.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, Numbers 26:51 can be seen as an encouragement to trust in God's promises and His ability to fulfill them, even when circumstances seem daunting. It also serves as a call to prepare spiritually and practically for the tasks God sets before His people, emphasizing the importance of community and collective responsibility in achieving God's purposes.

Conclusion:
Numbers 26:51, while a simple numerical record, is rich with historical, theological, and spiritual significance. It marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, bridging the past judgments with future hope and fulfillment. As such, it invites reflection on God's enduring faithfulness and the call to live in accordance with His will.601730 (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 26:51
These are those who were numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred one thousand seven hundred thirty.
(See NAS NIV)

601730 (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance 601730 (1 Occurrence). Numbers 26:51 These are those
who were numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred ...
/num/601730.htm - 6k

337500 (2 Occurrences)

/num/337500.htm - 6k

603550 (3 Occurrences)

/num/603550.htm - 7k

Census (24 Occurrences)
... (2.) Another census was made just before the entrance into Canaan, when the number
was found to be 601,730, showing thus a small decrease (Numbers 26:51). ...
/c/census.htm - 15k

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