King James Version
What Does Numbers 32:36 Mean?
“And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.”
Numbers 32:36 · KJV
Context
34
And the children of Gad built Dibon, and Ataroth, and Aroer,
35
And Atroth, Shophan, and Jaazer, and Jogbehah,
36
And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.
37
And the children of Reuben built Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Kirjathaim,
38
And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded. gave: Heb. they called by names the names of the cities
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryVerse 36 continues the geographical details of tribal settlements—These verses enumerate specific cities and territories assigned to Gad, Reuben, and Manasseh in Transjordan. The detailed place names (many now archaeologically identified) demonstrate historical reliability of biblical records and emphasize that spiritual inheritance has concrete, real-world manifestation.
The extensive geographical detail teaches that God's covenant faithfulness operates in space-time history, not mythological abstraction. Christianity is fundamentally historical religion—God acts in real places at real times among real people. Luka's Gospel emphasizes this: 'In the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar... the word of God came to John' (Luke 3:1-2)—biblical faith is anchored in datable, locatable historical events.
The extensive geographical detail teaches that God's covenant faithfulness operates in space-time history, not mythological abstraction. Christianity is fundamentally historical religion—God acts in real places at real times among real people. Luka's Gospel emphasizes this: 'In the fifteenth year of Tiberius Caesar... the word of God came to John' (Luke 3:1-2)—biblical faith is anchored in datable, locatable historical events.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These Transjordan cities became important in later Israelite history—some served as Levitical cities, others as refuge cities. Ramoth-gilead (v.{v}) became significant battleground where King Ahab died (1 Kings 22). Archaeological excavations at sites like Heshbon, Dibon, and others confirm occupation during this period, validating biblical historical claims.
Reflection Questions
- How does Scripture's detailed geographical precision demonstrate that biblical faith is historical and verifiable, not mythological or abstract?
- What does the real-world, place-specific nature of biblical narrative teach about God's involvement in actual history rather than mere spiritual ideas?
- How can you cultivate confidence in Christianity as historical religion based on events that actually occurred in space and time?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 10 wordsוְאֶת1 of 10
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בֵּ֥ית2 of 10
H0וְאֶת4 of 10
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בֵּ֣ית5 of 10
H0עָרֵ֥י7 of 10
“cities”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
צֹֽאן׃10 of 10
“for sheep”
H6629a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)
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 32:36 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 32:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge