King James Version
What Does Numbers 26:49 Mean?
“Of Jezer, the family of the Jezerites: of Shillem, the family of the Shillemites.”
Numbers 26:49 · KJV
Context
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:
49
Of Jezer, the family of the Jezerites: of Shillem, the family of the Shillemites.
50
These are the families of Naphtali according to their families: and they that were numbered of them were forty and five thousand and four hundred.
51
These were the numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred thousand and a thousand seven hundred and thirty.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryOf Jezer, the family of the Jezerites: of Shillem, the family of the Shillemites—the continuation of Naphtali's clans. Jezer (יֵצֶר) shares its root with yetzer (יֵצֶר), the Hebrew term for inclination or impulse (Genesis 6:5's "imagination" of man's heart). God "forms" (יָצַר) humanity and each family with purpose. Shillem (שִׁלֵּם) means "recompense/peace," from the root of shalom.
Together, Jezer and Shillem declare theology: God forms people with purpose and brings them to wholeness/peace. The census isn't merely demographics—it's a record of God's creative work forming a nation according to His design.
Together, Jezer and Shillem declare theology: God forms people with purpose and brings them to wholeness/peace. The census isn't merely demographics—it's a record of God's creative work forming a nation according to His design.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These families received inheritance in Upper Galilee near the waters of Merom and Mount Hermon. The "recompense" family (Shillem) settled near where Peter would later receive his threefold restoration (John 21)—geographical recompense for geographical denial. God writes redemption into the landscape.
Reflection Questions
- How does the meaning of Jezer ("formed with purpose") encourage you that your existence is intentional, not accidental?
- What connections do you see between God forming families with purpose and His forming individuals (Jeremiah 1:5)?
- How does the Shillem ("recompense/peace") family name point forward to Christ, our peace and recompense?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsמִשְׁפַּ֖חַת2 of 6
“the family”
H4940a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת5 of 6
“the family”
H4940a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
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 26:49 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 26:49 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge