Numbers 1:38

Of the children of Dan, by their generations, after their families, by the house of their fathers, according to the number of the names, from twenty years old and upward, all that were able to go forth to war;

Of the children {H1121} of Dan {H1835}, by their generations {H8435}, after their families {H4940}, by the house {H1004} of their fathers {H1}, according to the number {H4557} of the names {H8034}, from twenty {H6242} years {H8141} old {H1121} and upward {H4605}, all that were able to go forth {H3318} to war {H6635};

Descendants of Dan 62,700

From the sons of Dan, according to the records of their clans and families, counting the names of all those twenty years of age or older who could serve in the army,

Of the children of Dan, their generations, by their families, by their fathers’ houses, according to the number of the names, from twenty years old and upward, all that were able to go forth to war;

Commentary

Numbers 1:38 details the precise enumeration of the fighting men from the tribe of Dan during the first census of Israel, commanded by God at Mount Sinai. This verse is part of a larger record in Numbers chapter 1, which meticulously counts all eligible males from each of the twelve tribes.

Context

The Book of Numbers opens with Israel encamped at Mount Sinai, roughly a year after their exodus from Egypt. God commands Moses and Aaron to take a census of the entire congregation, specifically focusing on those "from twenty years old and upward, all that were able to go forth to war" (Numbers 1:3). This detailed registration of the Israelite tribes, including the children of Dan in this verse, was crucial for organizing the vast camp, establishing military readiness for the journey to the Promised Land, and preparing for any future conflicts.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous nature of this census, "by their generations, after their families, by the house of their fathers," underscores God's desire for order and structure within His people. This divine blueprint for organization was essential for the nation's spiritual and practical journey.
  • Military Readiness: The explicit criterion "all that were able to go forth to war" highlights the immediate purpose of the census: to identify and quantify the fighting strength of Israel. This preparation was vital as they were about to embark on a journey that would involve encounters with hostile nations.
  • Tribal Identity and Accountability: Each tribe, like Dan, was counted separately, reinforcing the significance of tribal identity and lineage within Israelite society. Every eligible male was registered, emphasizing individual accountability and their role within the larger community.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "able to go forth to war" in the KJV accurately translates the Hebrew, which refers to those who are fit for military service. The detailed genealogical breakdown ("by their generations, after their families, by the house of their fathers") emphasizes a thorough and precise counting method, ensuring accuracy in the registration of each male's name and lineage.

Significance and Application

Numbers 1:38, though a seemingly administrative detail, reveals profound truths. It shows God's active involvement in the practical affairs of His people, orchestrating their readiness not just for physical battles but also for their collective journey of faith. For believers today, this verse can serve as a reminder of:

  • Preparedness for God's Purpose: Just as ancient Israel prepared for their physical journey and battles, we are called to be prepared for the spiritual journey and the challenges of serving God. This involves spiritual maturity, symbolized by being "twenty years old and upward," and a readiness to engage in spiritual warfare.
  • The Value of Every Individual: Each person, even in a vast multitude, was counted and had a place within God's ordered community, underscoring the importance of every individual's contribution to the collective mission.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 46:23 (3 votes)

    And the sons of Dan; Hushim.

  • Numbers 26:42 (2 votes)

    These [are] the sons of Dan after their families: of Shuham, the family of the Shuhamites. These [are] the families of Dan after their families.

  • Numbers 26:43 (2 votes)

    All the families of the Shuhamites, according to those that were numbered of them, [were] threescore and four thousand and four hundred.

  • Genesis 49:16 (2 votes)

    Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Israel.

  • Genesis 49:17 (2 votes)

    Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward.

  • Genesis 30:5 (2 votes)

    And Bilhah conceived, and bare Jacob a son.

  • Genesis 30:6 (2 votes)

    And Rachel said, God hath judged me, and hath also heard my voice, and hath given me a son: therefore called she his name Dan.