Numbers 34:22

KJV

And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan, Bukki the son of Jogli.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the prince {H5387} of the tribe {H4294} of the children {H1121} of Dan {H1835}, Bukki {H1231} the son {H1121} of Jogli {H3020}.

Complete Jewish Bible

from the tribe of the descendants of Dan, a leader, Buki the son of Yogli;

Berean Standard Bible

Bukki son of Jogli, a leader from the tribe of Dan;

American Standard Version

And of the tribe of the children of Dan a prince, Bukki the son of Jogli.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 34:22 introduces Bukki, son of Jogli, who is designated as the prince of the tribe of Dan. This specific mention is part of a divinely ordained roster of tribal leaders appointed to assist Eleazar the priest and Joshua in the meticulous and equitable distribution of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. The verse, therefore, highlights God's precise and orderly fulfillment of His covenant promises, emphasizing the importance of delegated authority and the structured preparation for Israel's settlement in Canaan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 34:22 is embedded within a highly detailed and administrative section of the book of Numbers, specifically in chapters 33 and 34. Chapter 33 provides a retrospective account of the Israelites' forty-year wilderness journey, concluding with their arrival on the plains of Moab, directly opposite Jericho, poised to enter the Promised Land. Chapter 34 then shifts focus to meticulously define the precise geographical boundaries of the land they are to inherit, establishing the tangible scope of God's covenant promise. Following this crucial geographical delineation (Numbers 34:1-15), the text transitions to list the specific individuals chosen by God to oversee the land's division (Numbers 34:16-29). This roster includes Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and one divinely appointed prince from each of the nine and a half tribes destined to receive their inheritance west of the Jordan. Numbers 34:22, therefore, functions as a singular, yet vital, entry within this comprehensive list, underscoring the divine order, meticulous preparation, and the principle of delegated authority essential for Israel's successful transition from nomadic wanderers to a settled nation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting for Numbers 34 is the pivotal moment just prior to Israel's entry into Canaan, marking the culmination of their wilderness sojourn. This period represented a monumental transition from a transient, wilderness existence to a settled, agrarian society. The division of the land was not merely a logistical exercise but a foundational act for the nascent nation, establishing tribal identities, legal rights, economic stability, and the fulfillment of ancestral promises. In the ancient Near East, land ownership was inextricably linked to identity, lineage, and covenant fidelity. The role of a "prince" (*nasi'*) was far from nominal; these were authoritative leaders, often heads of prominent ancestral houses or major clans, chosen to represent their tribe's interests, ensure justice, and facilitate the orderly distribution of land. The meticulous naming of each leader, including Bukki of Dan, underscored the divine authority underpinning the entire process, the importance of orderly governance, and the sacred nature of the land inheritance.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, within its broader literary and historical framework, powerfully contributes to several significant theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Ordination of Leadership**, demonstrating God's active and direct involvement in appointing specific individuals for critical tasks. This emphasizes that effective leadership in God's economy is not self-appointed but divinely sanctioned and equipped, as seen throughout Israel's history with figures like [Moses](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Call of Moses") and [Joshua](/joshua/1 "Joshua 1 - God's Charge to Joshua"). Secondly, the passage underscores the **Fulfillment of God's Promises**. After centuries, the covenant made with Abraham regarding the land (e.g., [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "Genesis 15:18-21 - God's Covenant with Abraham")) was on the precipice of realization, with God providing both the means and the men to accomplish it. The detailed preparations emphasize God's unwavering faithfulness and meticulousness in bringing His word to pass. Thirdly, the listing of tribal leaders reinforces the **Importance of Tribal Identity and Inheritance**. Each tribe, including Dan, possessed a distinct identity and was destined to receive a specific portion of the land, which was crucial for maintaining the social, economic, and religious structure of Israel, as later elaborated in [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13-19 - The Division of the Land").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Prince (Hebrew, _nâsîyʼ'_):** The Hebrew term נָשִׂיא (*nâsîyʼ*) is derived from the root נָשָׂא (*nāśāʾ*), meaning "to lift up" or "to bear." Thus, a *nâsîyʼ* is literally "an exalted one," signifying a person of high rank, dignity, and authority. In the Pentateuch, *nâsîyʼ* is frequently used to denote a tribal chief, leader, or head of a family, often associated with specific administrative, military, or representative functions (e.g., [Numbers 1:16](/numbers/1-16 "Numbers 1:16 - Leaders of the Tribes")). Bukki, as a *nâsîyʼ*, was not merely a figurehead but an authoritative leader entrusted with a critical and divinely sanctioned role in the land's distribution for the tribe of Dan.
* **Dan (Hebrew, _Dân'_):** The name דָּן (*Dân*) means "judge" or "he has judged," reflecting the declaration of Rachel's servant Bilhah upon his birth: "God has judged me... and has also heard my voice and given me a son" ([Genesis 30:6](/genesis/30-6 "Genesis 30:6 - Birth of Dan")). Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's fifth son. The tribe of Dan is notable for its initial inheritance being too small or difficult to secure, leading to their later migration northward and conquest of Laish, which they renamed Dan (e.g., [Judges 18:29](/judges/18-29 "Judges 18:29 - Dan's Migration and Conquest")). In Numbers 34:22, the mention of Bukki as the prince of Dan signifies the tribe's continued inclusion and importance in the national inheritance scheme despite later challenges and changes in their territorial disposition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan":** This opening clause precisely identifies the specific tribal entity for which a leader is being designated. The phrase "children of Dan" emphasizes the collective lineage and inherited identity of the descendants of Dan, who are to receive their designated portion of the Promised Land. The appointment of a "prince" (*nâsîyʼ*) underscores the structured, hierarchical nature of Israelite society and the paramount importance of delegated authority in the execution of God's meticulously planned distribution of the land.
* **"Bukki the son of Jogli":** This provides the specific name and patronymic of the individual chosen by divine decree. Bukki, identified by his father Jogli, is the divinely appointed leader for the tribe of Dan in this crucial administrative task. The inclusion of the father's name (patronymic) is a common biblical practice that establishes lineage, precisely identifies the individual within the tribal and familial structure, and lends credibility and authority to the person's role. This detail highlights the meticulousness of God's plan, where specific individuals are known, chosen, and named for specific, vital tasks within His overarching purposes.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Numbers 34:22, and indeed throughout the entire section of Numbers 34:16-29, is **Enumeration** or **List-Making**. This systematic cataloging of tribal leaders serves a crucial function: it emphasizes the divine order, meticulous planning, and comprehensive nature of God's involvement in the land's distribution. Each entry, such as that of Bukki, is a distinct unit within a larger, divinely sanctioned roster, reinforcing the idea that no detail is overlooked in God's administrative process for His covenant people. Furthermore, the consistent use of **Patronymics** (e.g., "Bukki the son of Jogli") is a recurring literary feature in biblical genealogies and lists of appointed officials. This device provides specific identification, establishes lineage, and underscores the historical grounding and authenticity of the individuals mentioned, linking them firmly to their ancestral heritage and tribal identity. The precise naming of individuals for specific roles also conveys a powerful sense of **Divine Appointment** and accountability, highlighting that these leaders were not self-selected but chosen by God for His purposes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 34:22, though seemingly a simple administrative record, profoundly illustrates God's unwavering commitment to order, justice, and the meticulous fulfillment of His covenant promises. The divine appointment of specific leaders for the land's distribution underscores that God's grand redemptive plan is not chaotic but unfolds through structured, human agency empowered by His Spirit. This passage reminds us that God is intimately involved in the details of His people's lives, meticulously planning for their future and ensuring the just and equitable distribution of His blessings. It reflects His faithfulness and the equity of His provisions, foreshadowing the New Testament concept of spiritual inheritance and the ordered functioning of the body of Christ under divine leadership.

* [Joshua 14:1-2](/joshua/14-1-2 "Joshua 14:1-2 - Division of the Land by Lot")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for the Church's Edification")
* [1 Corinthians 12:27-28](/1_corinthians/12-27-28 "1 Corinthians 12:27-28 - Many Members, One Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The seemingly mundane listing of names in Numbers 34:22 carries profound implications for our understanding of God's character and our role within His purposes. It reveals a God who is not distant or disorganized but intimately involved in the details of His people's lives, meticulously planning for their future and ensuring the just distribution of His blessings. This verse reminds us that God's grand plans are often executed through the faithful service of specific, appointed individuals. Just as Bukki was entrusted with a vital role in securing the physical inheritance for Dan, we too are called to be diligent and faithful stewards of the spiritual inheritance and responsibilities God has given us within His kingdom. Every role, no matter how seemingly small or administrative, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive work, emphasizing that every member of God's family has a unique and valued place in His divine order, and is accountable for the stewardship entrusted to them.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous attention to detail in Numbers 34:22 encourage or challenge your own approach to stewardship and responsibility in your life or ministry?**
* **In what ways do you see God appointing and empowering leaders today to fulfill His purposes in the church or the world, and how can you support them?**
* **How does the concept of tribal inheritance in the Old Testament relate to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ today, and what does this mean for your daily walk?**

### FAQ
**Why is it important for the Bible to list specific names like Bukki, son of Jogli, in what seems like a simple administrative record?**

Answer: The inclusion of specific names like Bukki, son of Jogli, is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it lends historical authenticity and verifiability to the biblical narrative, grounding the events in real individuals and their lineages. These lists were vital for establishing tribal identity, land claims, and legal rights in ancient Israel. Secondly, it underscores God's meticulousness and personal involvement in the details of His plan. God is not dealing with an anonymous mass but with specific individuals whom He knows, chooses, and empowers for His purposes. This demonstrates divine order and accountability in leadership. Finally, it highlights the importance of every individual's role within God's grand design, showing that even seemingly minor figures contribute to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, as seen in the broader context of the division of the land in [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13-19 - The Division of the Land").

**What was the significance of the "prince" (nasi') in ancient Israel, and what does Bukki's role tell us about leadership?**

Answer: The *nasi'* (prince) was a highly significant figure in ancient Israelite society, often serving as a tribal chief or head of a major clan. The term implies one who is "lifted up" or holds a position of authority and responsibility. In the context of Numbers 34, these princes were not merely ceremonial figures but were divinely appointed to work alongside Eleazar and Joshua in the critical task of dividing the Promised Land. Bukki's role as *nasi'* of Dan indicates that he was a trusted and authoritative leader within his tribe, responsible for representing their interests and ensuring a just inheritance. This tells us that God values orderly leadership, delegation of authority, and the faithful execution of specific tasks by chosen individuals. It reflects the principle that God works through human instruments to accomplish His divine will, emphasizing the importance of integrity and faithfulness in those entrusted with leadership, as exemplified by the selection process described in [Numbers 34:16-29](/numbers/34-16 "Numbers 34:16-29 - The Appointed Leaders for Land Distribution").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 34:22 directly concerns the earthly inheritance of Israel, it profoundly points to a deeper, spiritual fulfillment in Christ. The meticulous divine appointment of Bukki and other tribal princes for the distribution of the earthly Promised Land foreshadows the ultimate divine appointment of Jesus Christ as the true and eternal "Prince" (Hebrew: *Sar*, a related concept to *nasi'*) and King over God's people. Just as these Old Testament leaders were instrumental in securing a physical inheritance for their tribes, Christ secures for all believers a heavenly and eternal inheritance that is incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven (e.g., [1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - A Living Hope, An Incorruptible Inheritance")). He is the one through whom all spiritual blessings are distributed, and through whom we receive "an inheritance among all those who are sanctified" (e.g., [Acts 26:18](/acts/26-18 "Acts 26:18 - To Open Their Eyes")). Furthermore, Christ, as the head of His body, the Church, meticulously equips and appoints leaders and spiritual gifts for the edification and orderly functioning of His people, ensuring that each member receives their spiritual portion and fulfills their unique role within His kingdom (e.g., [Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ")). Thus, Bukki's appointment, a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling ancient promises, ultimately finds its grandest expression in the person and work of Jesus, who is the ultimate dispenser of God's grace and the guarantor of our eternal inheritance.

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.