(The Lord speaking is red text)
Those that were numbered of them, [even] of the tribe of Asher, [were] forty and one thousand and five hundred.
those registered to the tribe of Asher numbered 41,500.
those that were numbered of them, of the tribe of Asher, were forty and one thousand and five hundred.
Those that were numbered{H6485} of them, even of the tribe{H4294} of Asher{H836}, were forty{H705} and one{H259} thousand{H505} and five{H2568} hundred{H3967}.
**Themes:**
1. **Divine Organization:** The verse is part of a larger narrative detailing the census conducted by Moses and Aaron at God's command. This reflects the theme of divine organization and order within the Israelite community as they prepare to transition from a group of former slaves to a nation with structured tribes and responsibilities.
2. **Identity and Belonging:** The census emphasizes the importance of tribal identity and belonging. Each tribe, including Asher, is accounted for, highlighting the significance of lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite society.
3. **Preparation for Conquest:** The census serves as a preparation for the military organization necessary for the conquest of Canaan. Knowing the number of able-bodied men available for warfare was crucial for strategic planning and allocation of resources.
4. **Divine Promise and Fulfillment:** The counting of the people is also a step towards the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham of numerous descendants. It showcases the growth and potential of the Israelite nation.
**Historical Context:**
- **Time Period:** The book of Numbers is set in the period following the Exodus from Egypt, during the Israelites' wanderings in the wilderness, approximately around the 13th century BCE.
- **Location:** The Israelites are encamped at Mount Sinai, where they received the Law, and are now preparing to journey towards the Promised Land.
- **Purpose of the Census:** The census was conducted to organize the tribes and prepare them for the conquest of Canaan, as well as to establish a system for land allocation and military service once they entered the Promised Land.
- **The Tribe of Asher:** Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from the sons of Jacob. The tribe was allocated land in the northern part of Canaan and was known for its fertile soil and olive groves. The numbering of the tribe of Asher at forty-one thousand five hundred men eligible for military service indicates its size and strength at the time of the census.
In summary, Numbers 1:41 reflects the themes of divine order, tribal identity, military preparation, and the fulfillment of divine promises within the historical context of the Israelites' organization and preparation for entering the Promised Land under God's guidance.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)