King James Version
What Does Numbers 26:53 Mean?
“Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names.”
Context
51
These were the numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred thousand and a thousand seven hundred and thirty.
52
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
53
Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names.
54
To many thou shalt give the more inheritance, and to few thou shalt give the less inheritance: to every one shall his inheritance be given according to those that were numbered of him. give the more: Heb. multiply his inheritance give the less: Heb. diminish his inheritance
55
Notwithstanding the land shall be divided by lot: according to the names of the tribes of their fathers they shall inherit.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(53-56) **Unto these the land shall be divided . . . —**The general apportionment of the land, as regarded the relative position of each tribe, was to be decided by lot, which was commonly looked upon as the determination of God Himself, and in this instance was undoubtedly so. The extent of territory was to be determined by the number of names—i.e., of persons—in each tribe, and each inheritance was to bear the name of the ancestor of the tribe. Rashi says that the names of the twelve tribes were written on twelve scrolls of parchment, and twelve borders, or limits of land, on twelve others, and that they were mixed together in an urn.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 26:53 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 26:53
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge