Numbers 2:26

And his host, and those that were numbered of them, [were] threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.

And his host {H6635}, and those that were numbered {H6485} of them, were threescore {H8346} and two {H8147} thousand {H505} and seven {H7651} hundred {H3967}.

The leader of the Danites is Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai, and his division numbers 62,700.

And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.

Commentary

Numbers 2:26 is a specific detail within the larger account of Israel's meticulously organized encampment in the wilderness. It records the precise number of fighting men from the tribe of Dan: 62,700. This verse is part of God's divine command for order and preparation as the Israelites journeyed from Mount Sinai towards the Promised Land.

Context

This verse is found in Numbers chapter 2, which outlines the detailed arrangement of the twelve tribes of Israel around the Tabernacle. Each tribe was assigned a specific position (east, south, west, or north) and a designated leader, along with their counted population. The tribe of Dan, along with Asher and Naphtali, was positioned on the north side of the Tabernacle and served as the rearguard for the entire camp during their travels. This precise census, initiated in Numbers chapter 1, underscored the nation's readiness for military and migratory movements under God's direction.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The meticulous numbering and positioning of each tribe highlight God's desire for order and structure within His people. This wasn't chaos, but a divinely ordained system.
  • Attention to Detail: The specific numbers for each tribe, down to the last individual, demonstrate God's comprehensive knowledge and care for every part of His covenant nation. No one was overlooked.
  • Preparation for Journey: This highly organized structure was essential for the successful and safe movement of millions of people, livestock, and the sacred Tabernacle through the wilderness. It speaks to God's foresight in leading His people.
  • The Role of Each Tribe: While Numbers 2:26 focuses on Dan, the chapter emphasizes that each tribe, regardless of its size, had a vital position and purpose within the larger community. Dan, being the largest of the three tribes on the north side, played a significant role as the rearguard of the camp.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "threescore and two thousand and seven hundred" is a straightforward enumeration in the KJV, simply translating the Hebrew numerical values. There are no deep linguistic nuances or hidden meanings in the specific words beyond their numerical significance, which emphasizes the precise nature of the census and the detailed record-keeping in the book of Numbers.

Practical Application

Numbers 2:26, though a seemingly dry numerical detail, offers profound lessons for believers today. It reminds us that God is a God of order, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Just as each tribe had its place and purpose in ancient Israel, so too does each individual within the body of Christ have a unique role and contribution (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This verse encourages us to embrace our place within the divine plan and to appreciate the importance of organization and intentionality in our collective efforts for God's kingdom.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:39 (2 votes)

    Those that were numbered of them, [even] of the tribe of Dan, [were] threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.

  • 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.