King James Version

What Does Numbers 1:8 Mean?

Numbers 1:8 in the King James Version says “Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.”

Numbers 1:8 · KJV

Context

6

Of Simeon; Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

7

Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

8

Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

9

Of Zebulun; Eliab the son of Helon.

10

Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim; Elishama the son of Ammihud: of Manasseh; Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The naming of each tribal representative, including Nethaneel of Issachar, reflects God's exhaustive knowledge and sovereign ordering of His covenant people. Even tribes that would not achieve great prominence in Israel's history receive equal recognition in the census, demonstrating that God's election is not based on worldly greatness but on His gracious choice. This equal representation points to the equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of their prominence in the world.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Issachar, descended from Jacob's ninth son, occupied territory in the fertile Jezreel Valley. The tribe was known later for men who 'understood the times' (1 Chronicles 12:32), though they appear less frequently in biblical narratives than Judah or Ephraim.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's equal treatment of prominent and less prominent tribes challenge worldly notions of importance?
  2. What does this teach us about the value of every believer in the body of Christ, regardless of their visibility or prominence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
לְיִ֨שָּׂשכָ֔ר1 of 4

“Of Issachar”

H3485

jissaskar, a son of jacob

נְתַנְאֵ֖ל2 of 4

“Nethaneel”

H5417

nethanel, the name of ten israelites

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

צוּעָֽר׃4 of 4

“of Zuar”

H6686

tsuar, 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 1:8 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 1:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 7:18Numbers 2:5Numbers 10:15

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 1 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes