Numbers 1:42

Of the children of Naphtali, throughout 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 Naphtali {H5321}, throughout 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 Naftali 53,400

From the sons of Naphtali, 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 Naphtali, 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 1:42 details the census count for the tribe of Naphtali, specifying the criteria for inclusion in this significant population registration. This verse is part of a larger divine directive given to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, preparing the Israelites for their journey and future challenges.

Context

This verse is situated within the first comprehensive census of the Israelite tribes, recorded in Numbers chapter 1. God commanded Moses and Aaron to count all men from twenty years old and upward who were "able to go forth to war." This was not merely a demographic survey but a military registration, establishing the fighting force of Israel as they prepared to leave Mount Sinai and embark on their journey toward the Promised Land. Each tribe's count is meticulously recorded, emphasizing God's detailed organization of His people.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous nature of the census, counting each tribe "throughout their generations, after their families, by the house of their fathers," underscores God's emphasis on structure, order, and accountability within His people. This divine order is fundamental to their identity and mission.
  • Readiness for Service and Conflict: The primary purpose of this census was military readiness. Those counted were specifically "all that were able to go forth to war," highlighting the immediate need for a prepared and disciplined force to face the challenges and battles ahead in the wilderness and in conquering Canaan. This concept of readiness is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, often extending to spiritual preparedness, as seen in passages like Ephesians 6:13.
  • Tribal Identity and Lineage: The repeated emphasis on "generations," "families," and "house of their fathers" reinforces the importance of tribal identity and lineage in ancient Israel. This meticulous record-keeping was crucial for maintaining tribal boundaries, inheritance rights, and the overall social and religious structure of the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "able to go forth to war" translates the Hebrew yotzei tzava (יֹצֵא צָבָא), which literally means "going out to the army/host." This emphasizes not just physical capability but active participation in military service. It signifies a readiness to be deployed and engage in combat, underscoring the practical and immediate purpose of the census.

Practical Application

While this verse describes an ancient military census, its underlying principles offer timeless insights:

  • God Values Order: Just as God organized ancient Israel, He desires order and purpose in our lives and communities.
  • Preparedness is Key: Life presents its own battles—spiritual, emotional, and physical. This verse reminds us of the importance of being prepared and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead, trusting in God's guidance. This resonates with the call to be vigilant and sober-minded, as mentioned in 1 Peter 5:8.
  • Every Individual Counts: Each person, regardless of their role or tribe, was counted and had a place in God's plan for Israel. Similarly, every individual has value and a unique role in God's kingdom today.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 46:24 (2 votes)

    And the sons of Naphtali; Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem.

  • Numbers 26:48 (2 votes)

    [Of] the sons of Naphtali after their families: of Jahzeel, the family of the Jahzeelites: of Guni, the family of the Gunites:

  • Numbers 26:50 (2 votes)

    These [are] the families of Naphtali according to their families: and they that were numbered of them [were] forty and five thousand and four hundred.

  • Genesis 30:7 (2 votes)

    And Bilhah Rachel's maid conceived again, and bare Jacob a second son.

  • Genesis 30:8 (2 votes)

    And Rachel said, With great wrestlings have I wrestled with my sister, and I have prevailed: and she called his name Naphtali.

  • Genesis 49:21 (2 votes)

    Naphtali [is] a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words.