King James Version
What Does Numbers 13:12 Mean?
“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.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryDan'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.
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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
- Does your life demonstrate genuine relationship with God, or merely verbal claims without corresponding obedience?
- How does Ammiel's false claim of divine kinship warn you to examine whether your profession matches your practice?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsלְמַטֵּ֣ה1 of 5
“Of the tribe”
H4294a 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”
H1835dan, one of the sons of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory; likewise a place in palestine colonized by them
בֶּן4 of 5
“the son”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
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.