Numbers 1:7

KJV

Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

KJV (with Strong's)

Of Judah {H3063}; Nahshon {H5177} the son {H1121} of Amminadab {H5992}.

Complete Jewish Bible

From Y'hudah, Nachshon the son of 'Amminadav;

Berean Standard Bible

from Judah, Nahshon son of Amminadab;

American Standard Version

Of Judah: Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 1:7 precisely identifies Nahshon, the son of Amminadab, as the designated prince of the tribe of Judah. This seemingly concise detail is a crucial component of the meticulously recorded census of Israel, conducted at Mount Sinai under divine command. It underscores God's profound commitment to order and structure within His covenant people, highlighting the foundational importance of tribal identity, the establishment of delegated leadership, and the preeminent role that Judah was destined to play in the unfolding narrative of salvation history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 1:7 is situated within the opening chapter of the Book of Numbers, which marks a significant transition in Israel's journey. Following the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction and the laws of worship in Exodus and Leviticus, Numbers begins with God's command to Moses and Aaron to conduct a comprehensive census. This divine directive, given "in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tabernacle of the congregation, on the first day of the second month, in the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt" [Numbers 1:1](/numbers/1-1 "Numbers 1:1 - Setting the Scene"), establishes the precise temporal and geographical setting. The census specifically targets all Israelite men twenty years old and upward, "all that are able to go forth to war in Israel" [Numbers 1:3](/numbers/1-3 "Numbers 1:3 - Purpose of the Census"). Verses 5-16 then systematically list the appointed "princes" or heads of each ancestral tribe who were to assist Moses and Aaron in this monumental task. Nahshon's mention here is integral to this systematic enumeration, laying the groundwork for the orderly encampment, march, and military organization of the Israelite nation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The census described in Numbers 1 was a pivotal moment for the nascent nation of Israel, approximately one year after their miraculous exodus from Egyptian bondage. Having received the Law at Sinai and established the Tabernacle as the center of their worship, Israel was transitioning from a loosely organized multitude into a divinely ordered, unified community poised for military action. This census served multiple critical purposes: it was a military registration to prepare for the impending journey to and conquest of Canaan, an administrative organization for their encampment and marching order, and a tangible demonstration of God's meticulous care and foresight for His people. Each tribe, functioning as a distinct socio-political and military unit, was to be counted and represented by a designated leader, a "prince" (נָשִׂיא, *nāsî’*), who wielded significant authority and responsibility. The appointment of such leaders, like Nahshon for Judah, ensured that the vast population could be effectively managed and mobilized for their divinely appointed mission, reflecting a structured and purposeful movement under God's guidance, a theme prevalent throughout [the early chapters of Numbers](/numbers/1 "Numbers 1 - The Census of Israel").
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 1:7 contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Order and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's meticulous planning and control over every aspect of His people's lives, from their organization to their journey. Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of **Delegated Leadership**, showing God's method of working through chosen human agents to accomplish His purposes. Leaders like Nahshon were crucial for maintaining cohesion and direction among the tribes. Thirdly, it emphasizes **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**, as each tribe's unique lineage and future role are affirmed through its designated leader. The specific mention of Judah, a tribe already marked for future prominence in [Genesis 49:8-10](/genesis/49-8-10 "Jacob's Prophecy for Judah"), foreshadows its significant role in Israel's history and the coming messianic line. This verse, therefore, is not merely an administrative detail but a foundational piece in the grand narrative of God's covenant relationship with Israel and His unfolding redemptive plan.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Judah (Hebrew, _Yᵉhûwdâh'_):** From the root "yada" (to praise), Judah refers to the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, and subsequently, the powerful tribe descended from him. In this context, it identifies the specific tribal affiliation for which Nahshon serves as prince. The name itself, meaning "celebrated" or "praise," foreshadows the tribe's future preeminence and its central role in God's redemptive plan, particularly as the lineage from which the Davidic kings and the Messiah would emerge.
* **Nahshon (Hebrew, _Nachshôwn'_):** Derived from a root meaning "enchanter," Nahshon is identified as an Israelite, specifically the son of Amminadab and the prince of the tribe of Judah. While the literal meaning of his name might seem incongruous with his role, his significance in Numbers 1:7 lies in his historical and genealogical importance. He is a pivotal figure in the lineage leading to King David and, ultimately, to Jesus Christ, making his inclusion in this census far more than a mere administrative entry; it is a foundational link in the unfolding messianic narrative.
* **Amminadab (Hebrew, _ʻAmmîynâdâb'_):** This name, meaning "people of liberality" or "my kinsman is noble," identifies Nahshon's father. As the patriarch of this immediate family unit, Amminadab provides the necessary lineage for Nahshon, establishing his credentials and authority within the tribal structure. The name itself may subtly reflect the esteemed character or standing of the family line from which such a significant leader was drawn, reinforcing the importance of family and lineage in ancient Israelite society.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Of Judah;":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the tribal identity and affiliation of the individual being named. In the context of the census and the subsequent listing of tribal princes, it designates Nahshon as the divinely appointed leader or representative for the tribe of Judah. This highlights the highly structured, tribal-centric organization of Israel, where identity, responsibility, and role were intrinsically linked to one's ancestral lineage and tribal designation.
* **"Nahshon the son of Amminadab.":** This clause provides the specific identity of the appointed leader for Judah. It names Nahshon personally and identifies him through his patrilineal descent, "the son of Amminadab." This standard ancient Near Eastern method of identification emphasizes lineage, family honor, and the continuity of leadership. Though brief, this identification is a foundational link in the genealogical chain that would later connect directly to King David and, ultimately, to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, underscoring the verse's profound long-term significance.

#### Literary Devices
The concise nature of Numbers 1:7 belies its profound literary depth. **Nomenclatural Significance** is paramount, as the names Nahshon, Amminadab, and especially Judah, carry inherent meanings and historical weight that contribute to the broader theological tapestry of the Pentateuch. The very act of listing these names, particularly in a genealogical format ("Nahshon the son of Amminadab"), employs **Genealogy** as a crucial literary and theological tool. This seemingly dry enumeration serves not merely as a record-keeping exercise but as a deliberate construction of lineage, hinting at future developments and divine promises. Furthermore, the selection and mention of Nahshon, a figure who will later appear prominently in the messianic line, demonstrates **Foreshadowing** or **Typology**, subtly pointing towards God's long-term plan of salvation that unfolds through specific individuals and families within the preeminent tribe of Judah. The verse is a small but significant piece in the grand narrative, demonstrating God's meticulousness and purposeful design in preparing His people and their lineage for the fulfillment of His redemptive promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 1:7, while a concise administrative detail within a census, powerfully conveys several profound theological and thematic truths about God's character and His dealings with humanity. It underscores God's nature as a God of perfect order, intention, and foresight, who meticulously organizes His people for their sacred mission. The appointment of specific leaders like Nahshon for each tribe reveals God's commitment to delegated authority and the vital importance of human leadership in carrying out divine commands. Moreover, the emphasis on tribal identity, particularly that of Judah, highlights the significance of lineage in God's redemptive plan, foreshadowing the future preeminence of this tribe and its ultimate role in the messianic promise. This verse reminds us that even the most seemingly mundane details in Scripture are part of a larger, divinely orchestrated narrative, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in history and His provident care for His covenant people.

* [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Jacob's Prophecy for Judah")
* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "God of Order")
* [Hebrews 11:8-10](/hebrews/11-8-10 "Faith of Abraham's Obedience")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 1:7, though brief, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order, not chaos, and He delights in bringing structure and purpose to His people. Just as each tribe had a designated leader and a specific place in the encampment and journey, so too does God call each of us to find our unique role and function within the body of Christ. Our individual gifts and callings contribute to the collective mission of the church, enabling us to move forward effectively in God's grand plan. This verse encourages us to embrace our identity within God's family, to honor and support the leaders He has placed over us, and to recognize that even seemingly small details of our lives are part of His intricate and purposeful design. It challenges us to live with intentionality, knowing that our obedience and participation, however humble, contribute to the unfolding of God's kingdom and the advancement of His purposes in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous organization of Israel in Numbers 1:7 challenge my own approach to order and intentionality in my spiritual life and responsibilities?**
* **In what ways can I better recognize and support the leaders God has placed in my life, both in the church and in other spheres of influence?**
* **How does understanding my unique place and purpose within the larger body of Christ motivate me to use my gifts for God's glory and the good of others?**

### FAQ

**Who was Nahshon, and why is his mention in Numbers 1:7 significant?**

Answer: Nahshon was the son of Amminadab and the appointed "prince" or leader of the tribe of Judah during the census of Israel recorded in [Numbers 1](/numbers/1 "The Census of Israel"). His mention is significant for several profound reasons. First, it highlights God's meticulous organization of His people, assigning specific leaders to each tribe for administrative, military, and spiritual purposes as they prepared for their wilderness journey and the conquest of Canaan. Second, and perhaps most importantly for the broader biblical narrative, Nahshon holds a crucial place in biblical genealogy. He is identified as an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the genealogies of [Ruth 4:20](/ruth/4-20 "Nahshon in Ruth's Genealogy"), [Matthew 1:4](/matthew/1-4 "Nahshon in Matthew's Genealogy"), and [Luke 3:32](/luke/3-32 "Nahshon in Luke's Genealogy"). Thus, this seemingly minor detail in Numbers 1:7 serves as a foundational link in the unfolding story of God's redemptive plan, connecting the tribal structure of ancient Israel to the coming of the promised Messiah.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 1:7, by naming Nahshon as the prince of Judah, serves as a crucial, albeit subtle, thread in the tapestry of Christ-centered fulfillment. The tribe of Judah was divinely designated for preeminence, prophesied by Jacob as the lineage from which the scepter would not depart until the coming of "Shiloh" [Genesis 49:10](/genesis/49-10 "Jacob's Prophecy for Judah"). Nahshon, as the prince of this pivotal tribe, represents the very beginning of the royal line that would eventually lead to King David [Ruth 4:20](/ruth/4-20 "Nahshon in Ruth's Genealogy") and, ultimately, to Jesus Christ. The meticulous organization of Israel under tribal leaders, with Judah at the forefront, foreshadows the perfect order and ultimate leadership of Christ, who is the true King, the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" [Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of Judah"). Just as Nahshon led his people in preparation for their journey and warfare, Christ leads His church, His new Israel, through the wilderness of this world towards the promised eternal inheritance. His perfect leadership fulfills the imperfect, yet divinely appointed, roles of Old Testament figures like Nahshon, demonstrating that God's plan of salvation was meticulously woven through history, culminating in the person and work of the [Lord Jesus Christ](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh") as the ultimate Prince and Savior.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 3:32

Which was [the son] of Jesse, which was [the son] of Obed, which was [the son] of Booz, which was [the son] of Salmon, which was [the son] of Naasson,

Numbers 2:3

¶ And on the east side toward the rising of the sun shall they of the standard of the camp of Judah pitch throughout their armies: and Nahshon the son of Amminadab [shall be] captain of the children of Judah.

Ruth 4:20

And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon,

Ruth 4:18

Now these [are] the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron,

Numbers 10:14

In the first [place] went the standard of the camp of the children of Judah according to their armies: and over his host [was] Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

1 Chronicles 2:10

And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, prince of the children of Judah;

1 Chronicles 2:11

And Nahshon begat Salma, and Salma begat Boaz,