King James Version
What Does Numbers 26:46 Mean?
“And the name of the daughter of Asher was Sarah.”
Numbers 26:46 · KJV
Context
44
Of the children of Asher after their families: of Jimna, the family of the Jimnites: of Jesui, the family of the Jesuites: of Beriah, the family of the Beriites.
45
Of the sons of Beriah: of Heber, the family of the Heberites: of Malchiel, the family of the Malchielites.
46
And the name of the daughter of Asher was Sarah.
47
These are the families of the sons of Asher according to those that were numbered of them; who were fifty and three thousand and four hundred.
48
Of the sons of Naphtali after their families: of Jahzeel, the family of the Jahzeelites: of Guni, the family of the Gunites:
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe name of the daughter of Asher was Sarah (שֶׂרַח)—a striking detail in a military census of males. Serah's inclusion breaks the pattern, demanding explanation. Jewish tradition identifies her as the woman who told Jacob that Joseph lived (Genesis 46:17 lists her entering Egypt). If true, her mention here 200+ years later suggests extraordinary longevity, making her a living link between Egypt's slavery and Canaan's conquest.
Why record one woman among 601,730 men? Serah represented continuity—the only person who remembered both Jacob's sorrow and his joy. Her name means "extension," perfectly fitting one who extended across generations. God preserves witnesses to His faithfulness.
Why record one woman among 601,730 men? Serah represented continuity—the only person who remembered both Jacob's sorrow and his joy. Her name means "extension," perfectly fitting one who extended across generations. God preserves witnesses to His faithfulness.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Serah appears in only three texts: the descent to Egypt (Genesis 46:17), this census, and Chronicles' genealogy (1 Chronicles 7:30). Rabbinic tradition claims she entered the Garden of Eden alive, like Enoch and Elijah. Whether or not the tradition holds, her unique mention suggests a unique role in preserving Israel's memory.
Reflection Questions
- Why would God include one woman's name in a military census of men? What does this reveal about His values?
- What spiritual significance does generational continuity—people who span multiple eras—have for preserving faith?
- Who are the 'Serahs' in your spiritual life—saints who connect you to previous generations of believers?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 4 wordsוְשֵׁ֥ם1 of 4
“And the name”
H8034an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
בַּת2 of 4
“of the daughter”
H1323a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
אָשֵׁ֖ר3 of 4
“of Asher”
H836asher, a son of jacob, and the tribe descended from him, with its territory; also a place in palestine
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 26:46 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 26:46 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge