King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:13 Mean?

Numbers 1:13 in the King James Version says “Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran.”

Numbers 1:13 · KJV

Context

11

Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.

12

Of Dan; Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.

13

Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran.

14

Of Gad; Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

15

Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.

Read Numbers 1 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Asher's modest prominence in biblical history yet secure place in Israel's tribal structure illustrates that God's election is not based on foreseen merit or achievement. The tribe that produced few notable leaders still received equal standing in the covenant community, demonstrating the principle that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. This anticipates Paul's teaching that God chose the weak and foolish things to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Asher, eighth son of Jacob through Zilpah, received a fertile coastal territory in northern Israel. The tribe appears infrequently in biblical narratives but was recognized by Jesus's contemporary, the prophetess Anna, who was 'of the tribe of Asher' (Luke 2:36).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Asher's inclusion despite minimal biblical prominence challenge our tendency to value visibility and recognition?
  2. What does Anna's identification with Asher centuries later teach us about God's preservation of His covenant people?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
לְאָשֵׁ֕ר1 of 4

“Of Asher”

H836

asher, a son of jacob, and the tribe descended from him, with its territory; also a place in palestine

פַּגְעִיאֵ֖ל2 of 4

“Pagiel”

H6295

pagiel, an israelite

בֶּן3 of 4

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עָכְרָֽן׃4 of 4

“of Ocran”

H5918

okran, an israelite

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 1:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 1:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 7:72Numbers 2:27Numbers 10:26

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 1 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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