King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:15 Mean?

Numbers 1:15 in the King James Version says “Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.”

Numbers 1:15 · KJV

Context

13

Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran.

14

Of Gad; Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

15

Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.

16

These were the renowned of the congregation, princes of the tribes of their fathers, heads of thousands in Israel.

17

And Moses and Aaron took these men which are expressed by their names:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Naphtali's inclusion with specific leadership demonstrates that every tribe had a defined role in God's covenant administration. The tribe that would later be called 'Galilee of the Gentiles' (Isaiah 9:1; Matthew 4:15) and witness much of Jesus's ministry shows how God's providential care in the wilderness organization had ultimate redemptive purposes. No detail of Israel's structure was arbitrary or merely administrative; all served God's eternal plan.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Naphtali, sixth son of Jacob through Bilhah, received territory in northern Galilee. This region became central to Jesus's ministry, with Capernaum and surrounding areas witnessing His mighty works. The tribal territory thus gained unexpected redemptive significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Naphtali's later connection to Jesus's ministry demonstrate that God wastes no detail in His providential ordering?
  2. What encouragement does this provide for believers who wonder about the purpose of their current circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
לְנַ֨פְתָּלִ֔י1 of 4

“Of Naphtali”

H5321

naphtali, a son of jacob, with the tribe descended from him, and its territory

אֲחִירַ֖ע2 of 4

“Ahira”

H299

achira, 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

עֵינָֽן׃4 of 4

“of Enan”

H5881

enan, 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 1:15 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 1:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 7:78Numbers 2:29Numbers 10:27

Test Your Knowledge

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

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