King James Version

What Does Numbers 13:12 Mean?

Numbers 13:12 in the King James Version says “Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli.”

Numbers 13:12 · KJV

Context

10

Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi.

11

Of the tribe of Joseph, namely, of the tribe of Manasseh, Gaddi the son of Susi.

12

Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli.

13

Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael.

14

Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi.

Read Numbers 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Dan's spy was 'Ammiel the son of Gemalli.' The name 'Ammiel' means 'God is my kinsman' or 'people of God,' claiming covenantal relationship. Yet claiming kinship with God while refusing to trust Him exposes the claim as false. Dan's blessing warned they'd be 'a serpent by the way' (Gen 49:17) - potentially dangerous and prone to idolatry (Judg 18:30-31). Ammiel fulfilled this negative potential, his fearful report striking like a serpent at Israel's faith. This teaches that verbal profession means nothing without lived faith. Jesus warned about those claiming 'Lord, Lord' whom He never knew (Matt 7:21-23). Relationship with God requires obedient trust, not mere words.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Dan, despite being numerous (Num 1:39), received small coastal territory, later migrating north to conquer Laish/Leshem (Josh 19:47, Judg 18). This demonstrated inability to fully possess their allotted inheritance - fulfilling their tribe's problematic blessing. Dan's idolatry became infamous, with one of Jeroboam's golden calves placed there (1 Kings 12:29). Dan's omission from Revelation's tribal list (Rev 7:4-8) suggests judgment on persistent apostasy. Ammiel never saw even the failed inheritance his tribe eventually received. His death in wilderness exemplifies forfeiting blessing through unbelief. The tribe that claimed God as kinsman repeatedly proved unfaithful.

Reflection Questions

  1. Does your life demonstrate genuine relationship with God, or merely verbal claims without corresponding obedience?
  2. How does Ammiel's false claim of divine kinship warn you to examine whether your profession matches your practice?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
לְמַטֵּ֣ה1 of 5

“Of the tribe”

H4294

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

דָ֔ן2 of 5

“of Dan”

H1835

dan, one of the sons of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory; likewise a place in palestine colonized by them

עַמִּיאֵ֖ל3 of 5

“Ammiel”

H5988

ammiel, the name of three or four israelites

בֶּן4 of 5

“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

גְּמַלִּֽי׃5 of 5

“of Gemalli”

H1582

gemalli, 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 13:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 13 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 13 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes