Understanding Numbers 26:50

Verse: Numbers 26:50

Context: In this chapter, the Israelites are preparing to enter the Promised Land, and a census is taken to organize the people for their inheritance.

Commentary Insights

Numbers 26:50 states, “These are the families of the children of Manasseh, and those that were numbered of them were fifty-two thousand and seven hundred.”

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that this verse highlights the significance of understanding the tribal lineage and the growth of the families of Israel. The counting was crucial for governance and for allocating the inheritances in the land of Canaan.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes emphasizes that each family was counted separately to ensure that every tribe received its fair share of land. This was part of God's promise and plan for Israel, showing that each individual and family mattered to Him.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides insights into the importance of the number given, indicating not just a population statistic but a fulfillment of God’s covenant with Israel to make them a great nation. The specific counting demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people.

Thematic Connections

The counting in Numbers reflects a broader theme of God's order and provision for His people. This principle appears throughout Scripture.

Related Bible Cross References

• Genesis 48:19 - Jacob's prophecy about Ephraim and Manasseh, establishing their significance in Israel's future.
• Exodus 30:12 - The command for a census, emphasizing the importance of proper accounting of God’s people.
• Leviticus 25:54 - Discusses inheritance and the land, linking the importance of tribe and family.
• 1 Chronicles 5:23 - Offers additional details about the tribes of Manasseh and their settlement in Canaan.
• Joshua 17:1-2 - Describes the distribution of land among the tribes of Manasseh, reaffirming the promises made.
• Psalms 78:68-69 - Reflects on God's choosing of the tribe of Ephraim and the impact on Israel.
• Hebrews 7:14 - In this New Testament reference, it indicates Jesus' lineage as coming from Judah, contrasting with the earlier tribes like Manasseh.

Linking Bible Scriptures

Understanding the connection of Numbers 26:50 with other verses allows us to grasp how God’s plan unfolds throughout Scripture.

For example, by linking this verse to Exodus 1:7, where the Israelites were fruitful and multiplied, we see the continuity of God’s promise. Similarly, Matthew 1:10 traces the genealogy through David, demonstrating how God's fidelity in numbers leads to fulfillment in history.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Studying this verse in the context of its connections can be enhanced using various tools such as:

• Bible concordance for locating themes.
• Bible reference resources for deeper theological insight.
• Cross-reference Bible study guides to navigate themes more effectively.

Conclusion

Numbers 26:50 is not just a statistic; it signifies God's meticulous care and planning for His people. The connections established through various Scriptures enrich our understanding and appreciation of God’s Word.