King James Version
What Does Numbers 34:23 Mean?
“The prince of the children of Joseph, for the tribe of the children of Manasseh, Hanniel the son of Ephod.”
Numbers 34:23 · KJV
Context
21
Of the tribe of Benjamin, Elidad the son of Chislon.
22
And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan, Bukki the son of Jogli.
23
The prince of the children of Joseph, for the tribe of the children of Manasseh, Hanniel the son of Ephod.
24
And the prince of the tribe of the children of Ephraim, Kemuel the son of Shiphtan.
25
And the prince of the tribe of the children of Zebulun, Elizaphan the son of Parnach.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd the prince of the tribe of the children of Manasseh, Hanniel the son of Ephod—Manasseh's appointed representative (Hanniel the son of Ephod) ensures fair land distribution for his tribe. The specific naming of all tribal leaders demonstrates Scripture's historical precision—these weren't generic placeholders but actual historical figures overseeing the monumental task of allocating Promised Land according to divine direction.
Manasseh's western half-tribe receives separate representation, distinguishing their Canaan inheritance from Transjordan relatives. This comprehensive listing shows that God's covenant faithfulness extends to every tribe—none were overlooked or shortchanged in the inheritance process. The New Testament similarly teaches that Christ's church includes every tribe and tongue: 'You have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation' (Revelation 5:9).
Manasseh's western half-tribe receives separate representation, distinguishing their Canaan inheritance from Transjordan relatives. This comprehensive listing shows that God's covenant faithfulness extends to every tribe—none were overlooked or shortchanged in the inheritance process. The New Testament similarly teaches that Christ's church includes every tribe and tongue: 'You have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation' (Revelation 5:9).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These tribal representatives worked alongside Joshua and Eleazar (34:17) during Canaan's 7-year conquest and division period. Each leader bore responsibility for ensuring his tribe received appropriate allocation according to Numbers 26's census—larger tribes received more territory, smaller tribes less (26:52-56), but all received sufficient inheritance for sustainable tribal existence.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's appointment of representatives for every tribe demonstrate His commitment to comprehensive, inclusive covenant faithfulness?
- What does the careful naming of each leader teach about Scripture's historical reliability and God's concern for individual persons, not just generic groups?
- How can you ensure that administrative processes in church or ministry honor both efficiency and inclusivity, making sure no group is overlooked or underserved?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 9 wordsבֶּן1 of 9
“of the children”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לְמַטֵּ֥ה3 of 9
“for the tribe”
H4294a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
בֶּן4 of 9
“of the children”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
מְנַשֶּׁ֖ה5 of 9
“of Manasseh”
H4519menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
בֶּן8 of 9
“of the children”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
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 34:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.