King James Version
What Does Numbers 2:28 Mean?
“And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were forty and one thousand and five hundred.”
Numbers 2:28 · KJV
Context
26
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.
27
And those that encamp by him shall be the tribe of Asher: and the captain of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son of Ocran.
28
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were forty and one thousand and five hundred.
29
Then the tribe of Naphtali: and the captain of the children of Naphtali shall be Ahira the son of Enan.
30
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were fifty and three thousand and four hundred.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAsher's census total (41,500) positioned the tribe in the mid-range numerically. This average status paired with coastal territory assignment shows God's comprehensive provision—some tribes received numerical strength, others strategic locations, still others natural resources. God distributes blessings variously according to His wise purposes, with each tribe receiving what they need for their assigned role.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Asher's later coastal territory would provide access to Mediterranean trade and Phoenician influence, creating both economic opportunities and spiritual dangers. The tribe's prosperity (Genesis 49:20 promised 'royal dainties') came with challenges of maintaining faithfulness amid pagan neighbors.
Reflection Questions
- How does the varied distribution of advantages (some tribes get numbers, others location, others resources) teach us about God's wise allocation of gifts?
- What does this teach us about being content with the specific blessings God grants us rather than envying others' different advantages?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 7 wordsוּצְבָא֖וֹ1 of 7
“And his host”
H6635a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
וּפְקֻֽדֵיהֶ֑ם2 of 7
“and those that were numbered”
H6485to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
אֶ֖לֶף5 of 7
“thousand”
H505hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand
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 2:28 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 2:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge