Numbers 26:34

These [are] the families of Manasseh, and those that were numbered of them, fifty and two thousand and seven hundred.

These are the families {H4940} of Manasseh {H4519}, and those that were numbered {H6485} of them, fifty {H2572} and two {H8147} thousand {H505} and seven {H7651} hundred {H3967}.

These were the families of M'nasheh; of them were counted 52,700.

These were the clans of Manasseh, and their registration numbered 52,700.

These are the families of Manasseh; and they that were numbered of them were fifty and two thousand and seven hundred.

Commentary

Numbers 26:34 KJV Commentary

Numbers 26:34 is a concise verse detailing the population count for the tribe of Manasseh during the second census of Israel. It states, "These [are] the families of Manasseh, and those that were numbered of them, fifty and two thousand and seven hundred." This numerical record is part of a larger, meticulous demographic survey conducted by Moses and Eleazar.

Context

This verse is situated within Numbers chapter 26, which records the second comprehensive census of the Israelite fighting men aged twenty years and upward. This census took place on the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, just before the Israelites were to enter the Promised Land. The first census, recorded in Numbers 1, occurred at Mount Sinai at the beginning of their forty-year wilderness journey. The second census was critical because the generation that had rebelled and been condemned to die in the wilderness had passed away (as prophesied in Numbers 14:29). This new numbering established the new generation, ready for the conquest and the upcoming division of the Promised Land by tribal inheritance.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: The detailed accounting of each tribe and its families demonstrates God's meticulous attention to order and structure within His people. This precision was essential for military readiness, camp organization, and, crucially, for the equitable distribution of the land.
  • God's Faithfulness to His Promises: Despite the disobedience and judgment faced by the previous generation, the sheer number of Israelites in this census—including the 52,700 from Manasseh—is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially those made to Abraham regarding his numerous descendants. The nation of Israel continued to grow and thrive under divine providence.
  • Preparation for Inheritance: The census directly links population size to land allocation, ensuring that each tribe received its portion according to its strength, as outlined later in the chapter. Manasseh, as a significant tribe, would receive a substantial inheritance.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "numbered" is paqad (פָּקַד), which carries a broader meaning than just counting. It can imply a divine visitation, oversight, or appointment. In this context, it signifies a divine act of mustering and recognizing the people, preparing them for their destiny. The term "families" (Hebrew: mishpachah, מִשְׁפָּחָה) refers to the clans or subdivisions within a tribe, highlighting the structured family units that formed the backbone of Israelite society.

Practical Application and Significance

While seemingly a dry statistical record, Numbers 26:34, and the census as a whole, carries profound spiritual lessons:

  • God's Sovereignty and Providence: It reminds us that God is intimately involved in the details of His people's lives, from individual families to entire nations. His plans are precise and purposeful, even when they involve long periods of waiting or judgment.
  • Every Individual Matters: Each person, each family, and each tribe was counted and recognized by God. This emphasizes the value God places on every individual within His larger plan.
  • Hope for New Beginnings: The census signifies a new chapter for Israel, moving past the failures of the past generation and looking forward to the fulfillment of God's promises in the Promised Land. It offers a message of hope and renewal, demonstrating God's grace in giving His people fresh starts.
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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:34 (2 votes)

    Of the children of Manasseh, 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;

  • Numbers 1:35 (2 votes)

    Those that were numbered of them, [even] of the tribe of Manasseh, [were] thirty and two thousand and two hundred.

  • Numbers 2:20 (2 votes)

    And by him [shall be] the tribe of Manasseh: and the captain of the children of Manasseh [shall be] Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

  • Numbers 2:21 (2 votes)

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