Numbers · Chapter 26

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

V. 2. Take the sum-They were numbered twice before, Exodus 30:11,12 Numbers 1:1,2. Now they are numbered a third time, to demonstrate the faithfulness of God, both in cutting all those off whom he had threatened to cut off, Numbers 14:29, and in a stupendous increase of the people according to his promise, notwithstanding all their sins, and the sweeping judgments inflicted upon them; and to prepare the way for the equal division of the land, which they were now going to possess.

Verse 2. Take the sum of all the congregation] After thirty-eight years God commands a second census of the Israelites to be made, to preserve the distinction in families, and to regulate the tribes previously to their entry into the promised land, and to ascertain the proportion of land which should be allowed to each tribe. For though the whole was divided by lot, yet the portions were so disposed that a numerous tribe did not draw where the lots assigned small inheritances. See Numbers 26:53-56, and also see Clarke’s note on “Numbers 1:1”.

Verse 2. Take the sum of all the congregation — They were numbered twice before, Exodus 30:11, 12; Numbers 1:1, 2. Now they are numbered a third time, to demonstrate the faithfulness of God, both in cutting all those off whom he had threatened to cut off, (Numbers 14:29,) and in a stupendous increase of the people, according to his promise, notwithstanding all their sins, and the sweeping judgments inflicted upon them; and to prepare the way for the equal division of the land, which they were now going to possess.

2. Take the sum of all the congregation — This census subserved several purposes. (1.) It showed that the entire generation of those who rejected Jehovah at Kadesh-barnea had perished according to the divine threatening. (2.) Their number having diminished instead of having doubled in nearly four decades, as the population of a young and prosperous nation should have done, shows the severity of Israel’s lot while under the ban of Jehovah. (3.) The exact number of each tribe, of its divisions and subdivisions down to the families, was necessary for a just allotment of the land. (1.) The genealogical tables, which may have been lost during the wanderings and mishaps in the wilderness, were now restored. Twenty years old — Numbers 1:3, note. Fathers’ house — Numbers 1:2, note.

3. Plains of Moab — Numbers 22:1, note. Jordan — Joshua 1:2, note and cut. Jericho — Joshua 2:1, note.

4. As the Lord commanded — Numbers 1:1, 2; 2 Samuel 24, notes.

5-9. Reuben, the eldest son — By Leah. Genesis 29:32. The enumeration of the grandsons of Jacob in this chapter is important, since these are the basis of the tribal divisions, just as the tribes sprang from his sons. Hanoch, dedicated, is, in Hebrew, the same as Enoch, a name belonging to two other persons. There is no good reason for this twofold orthography. Nothing more is known of this Enoch. Pallu, eminent, spelled Phallu in Genesis 46:9, is identified by Josephus with Peleth in Numbers 16:1. See note. Of Hezron and Carmi nothing is known. The families of the Reubenites tally with Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14, and 1 Chronicles 5:3. In verse 8 the word “sons” occurs where only one is mentioned, because the writer had in mind the grandsons named in ver. 9. Nemuel — Day of God — The record is interrupted expressly to admit a statement respecting his younger brothers, Dathan and Abiram — See Numbers 16:1-33, notes.

5-9. Reuben, the eldest son — By Leah. Genesis 29:32. The enumeration of the grandsons of Jacob in this chapter is important, since these are the basis of the tribal divisions, just as the tribes sprang from his sons. Hanoch, dedicated, is, in Hebrew, the same as Enoch, a name belonging to two other persons. There is no good reason for this twofold orthography. Nothing more is known of this Enoch. Pallu, eminent, spelled Phallu in Genesis 46:9, is identified by Josephus with Peleth in Numbers 16:1. See note. Of Hezron and Carmi nothing is known. The families of the Reubenites tally with Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14, and 1 Chronicles 5:3. In verse 8 the word “sons” occurs where only one is mentioned, because the writer had in mind the grandsons named in ver. 9. Nemuel — Day of God — The record is interrupted expressly to admit a statement respecting his younger brothers, Dathan and Abiram — See Numbers 16:1-33, notes.

V. 7. Families-The chief houses, which were subdivided into divers lesser families. Forty three thousand seven hundred and thirty-Whereas in their last numbering they were forty six thousand five hundred; for Korah’s conspiracy, as well as other provocations of theirs, had cut off many of them.

Verse 7. Families — The chief houses, which were subdivided into divers lesser families. Forty-three thousand seven hundred and thirty — Whereas, in their last numbering they were forty-six thousand five hundred; for Korah’s conspiracy, as well as other provocations of theirs, had cut off many of them.

5-9. Reuben, the eldest son — By Leah. Genesis 29:32. The enumeration of the grandsons of Jacob in this chapter is important, since these are the basis of the tribal divisions, just as the tribes sprang from his sons. Hanoch, dedicated, is, in Hebrew, the same as Enoch, a name belonging to two other persons. There is no good reason for this twofold orthography. Nothing more is known of this Enoch. Pallu, eminent, spelled Phallu in Genesis 46:9, is identified by Josephus with Peleth in Numbers 16:1. See note. Of Hezron and Carmi nothing is known. The families of the Reubenites tally with Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14, and 1 Chronicles 5:3. In verse 8 the word “sons” occurs where only one is mentioned, because the writer had in mind the grandsons named in ver. 9. Nemuel — Day of God — The record is interrupted expressly to admit a statement respecting his younger brothers, Dathan and Abiram — See Numbers 16:1-33, notes.

5-9. Reuben, the eldest son — By Leah. Genesis 29:32. The enumeration of the grandsons of Jacob in this chapter is important, since these are the basis of the tribal divisions, just as the tribes sprang from his sons. Hanoch, dedicated, is, in Hebrew, the same as Enoch, a name belonging to two other persons. There is no good reason for this twofold orthography. Nothing more is known of this Enoch. Pallu, eminent, spelled Phallu in Genesis 46:9, is identified by Josephus with Peleth in Numbers 16:1. See note. Of Hezron and Carmi nothing is known. The families of the Reubenites tally with Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14, and 1 Chronicles 5:3. In verse 8 the word “sons” occurs where only one is mentioned, because the writer had in mind the grandsons named in ver. 9. Nemuel — Day of God — The record is interrupted expressly to admit a statement respecting his younger brothers, Dathan and Abiram — See Numbers 16:1-33, notes.

5-9. Reuben, the eldest son — By Leah. Genesis 29:32. The enumeration of the grandsons of Jacob in this chapter is important, since these are the basis of the tribal divisions, just as the tribes sprang from his sons. Hanoch, dedicated, is, in Hebrew, the same as Enoch, a name belonging to two other persons. There is no good reason for this twofold orthography. Nothing more is known of this Enoch. Pallu, eminent, spelled Phallu in Genesis 46:9, is identified by Josephus with Peleth in Numbers 16:1. See note. Of Hezron and Carmi nothing is known. The families of the Reubenites tally with Genesis 46:9; Exodus 6:14, and 1 Chronicles 5:3. In verse 8 the word “sons” occurs where only one is mentioned, because the writer had in mind the grandsons named in ver. 9. Nemuel — Day of God — The record is interrupted expressly to admit a statement respecting his younger brothers, Dathan and Abiram — See Numbers 16:1-33, notes.

V. 10. With Korah-According to this translation Korah was not consumed by fire with his two hundred and fifty men, but swallowed up by the earth. But others rather think he was devoured by the fire, and render these words, and the things of Korah, or belonging to Korah, namely, his tent and goods, and family, children excepted, as here follows. A sign-God made them a monument or example, to warn others not to rebel against God, or magistracy, nor to usurp the priestly office.

Verse 10. Together with Korah] The Samaritan text does not intimate that Korah was swallowed up, but that he was burnt, as appears in fact to have been the case. And the earth swallowed them up, what time that company died; and the fire devoured Korah with the two hundred and fifty men, who became a sign.

Verse 10. Together with Korah — These words seem to import that Korah was swallowed up with Dathan and Abiram. But it being more probable, as was observed on Numbers 16:32, that Korah was consumed by the fire of God with those who offered incense, the words may be otherwise translated thus: The earth swallowed them up; namely, Dathan and Abiram; and as for Korah, he died with that company, what time the fire devoured, &c. — To the same purpose speak the Samaritan text and Josephus. “Also we have the testimony of the apostolical constitutions, and in effect of Clement of Rome, of Ignatius and Eusebius, that the Septuagint version originally gave the same account.” — Whiston. Junius and Tremellius render the passage, The earth swallowed them up, and what things belonged to Korah; namely, his tent, and goods, and family, his children excepted, as they are here. The psalmist seems to confirm the opinion that Korah was burned with his Levites, mentioning only Dathan and Abiram as being swallowed up, Psalm 106:17. They became a sign — A monument of divine vengeance against daring sinners, warning them not to rebel against God, or magistrates, his deputies, nor to usurp the priestly office.

10. Together with Korah — The Samaritan text does not intimate that Korah was swallowed up, but that he was burned. See Numbers 16:25, note; Psalm 106:17. This view is sustained by Graves, Boothroyd, Bush, Geddes, Hervey, and Josephus. But Ewald, Keil, Kurtz, and Knobel, think that Korah was engulfed. They argue that he left the two hundred and fifty burning incense at the tabernacle and followed Moses, with the purpose of strengthening Dathan and Abiram in their contumacy; and, standing with them by their tents, was swallowed up. It is clear that he was not in his own tent, which must have been at some little distance, and seems not to have been destroyed. Became a sign — A warning.

V. 11. Died not-God being pleased to spare them, because they disowned their father’s fact, and separated themselves both from his tent and company. Hence the sons of Korah are mentioned, 1 Chronicles 6:22,38, and often in the book of Psalms.

Verse 11. The children of Korah died not.] It is difficult to reconcile this place with Numbers 16:27, 31-33, where it seems to be intimated that not only the men, but the wives, and the sons, and the little ones of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, were swallowed up by the earthquake; see especially Numbers 16:27, collated with Numbers 16:33. But the text here expressly says, The children of Korah died not; and on a close inspection of Numbers 16:27 of the above-mentioned chapter, we shall find that the sons and the little ones of Dathan and Abiram alone are mentioned. So they gat up from the tabernacle of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, on every side: and Dathan and Abiram came out-and their wives, and their sons, and their little ones. Here is no mention of the children of Korah, they therefore escaped, while it appears those of Dathan and Abiram perished with their fathers. See Clarke’s note on “Numbers 16:30”.

Verse 11. The children of Korah died not — God being pleased to spare them, because they disowned their father’s act, and separated themselves from his tent and company. Hence the sons of Korah are mentioned 1 Chronicles 6:22, 38, and often in the book of Psalms.

Verse 11. The children of Korah died not. The divine law is lenient; it did not cut off the children of the three rebels from inheritance.

11. The children… died not — Numbers 16:27, note.

V. 12. Jachin-Called also Jarib, 1 Chronicles 4:24. And such names might be either added or changed upon some special occasion not recorded in scripture.

Verse 12. Jachim — Called also Jarib, 1 Chronicles 4:24. And such names might be either added or changed upon some special occasion not recorded in Scripture.

12. Nemuel is called Jemuel in Genesis 46:10, which Gesenius decides to be the correct form, of which Nemuel is a corruption.

13. Zerah is the same as Zohar. Genesis 46:10.

V. 14. Twenty two thousand and two hundred-No tribe decreased so much as Simeon’s. From fifty nine thousand and three hundred it sunk to twenty two thousand and two hundred, little more than a third part of what it was. One whole family of that tribe, (Ohad mentioned Exodus 6:15) was extinct in the wilderness. Some think most of the twenty four thousand, cut off by the plague for the iniquity of Peor, were of that tribe. For Zimri, a ring-leader in that iniquity, was a prince of that tribe. Simeon is not mentioned in Moses’s blessing, Deuteronomy 33:1-29. And the lot of that tribe in Canaan was inconsiderable, only a canton out of Judah’s lot, Joshua 19:9.

Verse 14. Twenty-two thousand and two hundred — No tribe decreased so much as Simeon’s. From fifty-nine thousand and three hundred it sunk to twenty-two thousand and two hundred, little more than a third of what it was. One whole family of that tribe (Ohad, mentioned Exodus 6:15) was extinct in the wilderness. Some think most of the twenty-four thousand, cut off by the plague for the iniquity of Peor, were of that tribe. For Zimri, a ringleader in that iniquity, was a prince of that tribe. Simeon is not mentioned in Moses’s blessing, Deuteronomy 33. And the lot of that tribe in Canaan was inconsiderable, only a canton out of Judah’s lot, Joshua 19:9.

14. Twenty and two thousand — A decrease of thirty-seven thousand one hundred must be ascribed to some remarkable cause. Probably the bad example of Prince Zimri (Numbers 25:6, 14) had led many Simeonites into that licentiousness which was punished by the plague and by the slow wasting of venereal diseases.

15. Zephon — Ziphion, in Genesis 46:16.

16. Ozni is evidently a corruption of Ezbon (Genesis 46:16) by the accidental omission of beth in the first place, and the subsequent addition of a vowel at the end of the word.

17. Arod — Arodi, in Genesis 46:16. 19-22. The sons of Judah and their families agree with Genesis 46:12; 38:6-30, and 1 Chronicles 2:3-5.

V. 18. Children of Gad-Fewer by above five thousand than there were in their last numbering.

Verse 18. Children of Gad — Fewer by above five thousand than there were in their last numbering.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

V. 22. The families of Judah-About two thousand more than they were, Numbers 1:27, whereas the foregoing tribes were all diminished.

Verse 22. The families of Judah — About two thousand more than they were, Numbers 1:27; whereas the foregoing tribes were all diminished.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

23. Pua, in 1 Chronicles 7:1 is Puah, and in Genesis 46:13 it is Phuvah. The Hebrew consonants are the same but differently vocalized.

24. Jashub is written Job in Genesis 46:13, which is the Arabic of Jashub, both signifying, to return.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

28. The sons of Joseph — Manasseh and Ephraim, because of their adoption by Jacob as his own sons, (Genesis 48,) were raised to the dignity of tribe founders. Numbers 1:10, note.

29. The sons of Manasseh — This genealogy harmonizes fully with Numbers 27:1; 36:1, and Joshua 17:1-6, except that the contracted form of Jeezer (ver. 30) is fully written Abiezer by Joshua.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

Verse 33. Zelophehad had no sons, but daughters — It is remarkable that in so many heads of families there was only one to whom no sons were born. To what other cause can this be ascribed but to a peculiar providence, whereby many more males than females were born, for the strength and increase of the Jewish nation?

33. The names of the daughters of Zelophehad, who had no sons, are recorded preparatory to the new legislation respecting the inheritance of brotherless daughters. Chaps. 27 and 36.

V. 34. Fifty two thousand and seven hundred-Whereas they were but thirty two thousand and two hundred, in Numbers 1:35. So they are now increased above twenty thousand, according to that prophecy, Genesis 49:22.

Verse 34. Fifty-two thousand seven hundred — Whereas they were but thirty-two thousand and two hundred, in Numbers 1:35. So that they had increased twenty thousand and five hundred, according to the promise made to Joseph’s posterity, Genesis 49:22.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

35. The sons of Ephraim founded three families, and a grandson founded one.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

Verses 37, 38. The sons of Ephraim — Ephraim, though in future times a tribe flourishing much more than its brother-tribe Manasseh, (Deuteronomy 33:17,) was now, for some cause, it appears, upon the declension, their poll being decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:33. The sons of Benjamin — When they went into Egypt the sons of Benjamin were ten, Genesis 46:21. Half of these, it seems, had no children, or their families were become extinct, as only five are here named. In amends for the rest, two of his grand-children by the eldest, Bela, namely, Ard and Naaman, became heads of very large families; so that, upon the whole, the sons of Benjamin had increased since the last poll ten thousand two hundred. Compare verse 41 with chap 1:37.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

V. 38. The sons of Benjamin-Who were ten, Genesis 46:21, whereof only five are here mentioned, the rest probably, together with their families, being extinct.

Verses 37, 38. The sons of Ephraim — Ephraim, though in future times a tribe flourishing much more than its brother-tribe Manasseh, (Deuteronomy 33:17,) was now, for some cause, it appears, upon the declension, their poll being decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:33. The sons of Benjamin — When they went into Egypt the sons of Benjamin were ten, Genesis 46:21. Half of these, it seems, had no children, or their families were become extinct, as only five are here named. In amends for the rest, two of his grand-children by the eldest, Bela, namely, Ard and Naaman, became heads of very large families; so that, upon the whole, the sons of Benjamin had increased since the last poll ten thousand two hundred. Compare verse 41 with chap 1:37.

38. The sons of Benjamin established five families, and the grandsons established two. Ahiram is abbreviated to Ehi in Genesis 46:21.

39. Shupham is Muppim and Hupham is Huphim in Genesis 46:21, see note.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

Verse 42. The sons of Dan — Under the name of sons his descendants are included, he having but one immediate son. But from him this tribe multiplied into very great divisions and subdivisions of families, and was now increased since the last poll seventeen hundred.

42. Shuham is Hushim in Genesis 46:23.

V. 43. Threescore and four thousand and four hundred-All from one son and family, whereas of Benjamin who had ten sons, and five families, there were only forty five thousand and six hundred, to shew that the increase of families depends singly upon God’s blessing and good pleasure.

THE SECOND CENSUS, 1-51.

1. After the plague — This had swept away the last of the generation doomed to death before entering Canaan. Comp. verses 64, 65, and Numbers 14:32-34. Moses… Eleazar — Moses and Aaron were in superintendence of the first census board. Numbers 1:3, note. In this census there was probably a board of assistant enumerators as in the first, (Numbers 1:4-15,) but they are not mentioned.

44-47. The children of Asher — This passage agrees with Genesis 46:17 and 1 Chronicles 7:30, except that Ishua, not being a founder, is dropped.

44-47. The children of Asher — This passage agrees with Genesis 46:17 and 1 Chronicles 7:30, except that Ishua, not being a founder, is dropped.

44-47. The children of Asher — This passage agrees with Genesis 46:17 and 1 Chronicles 7:30, except that Ishua, not being a founder, is dropped.

Verses 47-50. The families of the sons of Asher — They had increased eleven thousand nine hundred since they were numbered last; but those of Napthali had decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:41, 43.

44-47. The children of Asher — This passage agrees with Genesis 46:17 and 1 Chronicles 7:30, except that Ishua, not being a founder, is dropped.

Verses 47-50. The families of the sons of Asher — They had increased eleven thousand nine hundred since they were numbered last; but those of Napthali had decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:41, 43.

48-50. The sons of Naphtali — This record corresponds with Genesis and 1 Chronicles.

Verses 47-50. The families of the sons of Asher — They had increased eleven thousand nine hundred since they were numbered last; but those of Napthali had decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:41, 43.

48-50. The sons of Naphtali — This record corresponds with Genesis and 1 Chronicles.

Verses 47-50. The families of the sons of Asher — They had increased eleven thousand nine hundred since they were numbered last; but those of Napthali had decreased eight thousand. See Numbers 1:41, 43.

48-50. The sons of Naphtali — This record corresponds with Genesis and 1 Chronicles.

V. 51. These were the numbered-Very nigh as many as there were before, Numbers 1:46. So wisely and marvellously did God at the same time manifest his justice in cutting off so vast a number; his mercy in giving such a speedy and numerous supply; and his truth in both.

Verse 51. These were the numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred thousand and a thousand seven hundred and thirty.] The following comparative statement will show how much some of the tribes had increased, and others had diminished, since the enumeration in Numbers 1:2, &c.

Now Before

Reuben 43,730 46,500 2,770 decrease

Simeon 22,200 59,300 37,100 decrease

Gad 40,500 45,650 5,150 decrease

Judah 76,500 74,600 1,900 increase

Issachar 64,300 54,400 9,900 increase

Zebulun 60,500 57,400 3,100 increase

Manasseh 52,700 32,200 20,500 increase

Ephraim 32,500 40,500 8,000 decrease

Benjamin 45,600 35,400 10,200 increase

Dan 64,400 62,700 1,700 increase

Asher 53,400 41,500 11,900 increase

Naphtali 45,400 53,400 8,000 decrease

——— ——— ———

Total 601,730 603,550 1,820 decrease on the

whole, in 38 years.

Decrease in all,

61,020.

Increase in all, 59,200.

Let it be observed, 1. That among these there was not a man of the former census, save Joshua and Caleb, see Numbers 26:64, 65. 2. That though there was an increase in seven tribes of not less than 74,800 men, yet so great was the decrease in the other five tribes, that the balance against the present census is 1,820, as appears above: thus we find that there was an in crease of 601,728 from 603,550 in the space of thirty-eight years.

Notwithstanding the amazing increase in some and decrease in other tribes, the same sort of proportion is preserved in the east, west, north, and south divisions, as before; so as to keep the division of Judah, which was always in the front or van, the largest; and the division of Dan, which was always in the rear, the next in number. But it is worthy of remark that as they are now, properly speaking, to commence their grand military operations, so their front, or advanced division, is increased from 186,400 to 201,300; and their rear from 157,600 to 163,200. The first division is strengthened 14,900 men, and the last division 5,600 men. The reasons for this are sufficiently obvious.

Mr. Ainsworth has a curious remark on the number of families in the 12 tribes. “Here are families

1. Of Manasseh 8

2. Of Benjamin 7

3. Of Gad 7

4. Of Simeon 5

5. Of Judah 5

6. Of Asher 5

7. Of Reuben 4

8. Of Issachar 4

9. Of Ephraim 4

10. Of Naphtali 4

11. Of Zebulun 3

12. Of Dan 1

“In all 57; to whom if we add the 12 patriarchs, and Jacob their father, the whole number is 70, the exact number of the souls in Jacob’s house that went down to Egypt, Genesis 46:27.” In a variety of things in this ancient economy there is a most surprising proportion kept up, which never could have been a fortuitous effect of general causes. But proportion, harmony, and order distinguish all the works of God, both in the natural and moral world.

Verse 51. Six hundred thousand and a thousand seven hundred, &c. — Very nigh as many as they were before, Numbers 1:46. So wisely and marvellously did God at the same time manifest his justice in cutting off so vast a number, his mercy in giving such a speedy and numerous supply, and his truth in both.

51. These were the numbered — The results of the two enumerations are tabulated by tribes and in their totals in chap. 1:21, note. The decrease was caused in part by the judgments of Jehovah sweeping off thousands at a stroke, (Numbers 11:1-3, 33-35; 16:31-35, 49; 25:9,) and partly by hardships endured while under the sentence of exclusion from Canaan. Numbers 14:32, 33.

Reuben 2,770 decrease.

Simeon 37,100 decrease.

Gad 5,150 decrease.

Judah 1,900 increase.

Issachar 9,900 increase.

Zebulun 3,100 increase.

Manasseh 20,500 increase.

Ephraim 8,000 decrease.

Benjamin 10,200 increase.

Dan 1,700 increase.

Asher 11,900 increase.

Naphtali 8,000 decrease.

Total decrease 61,020

Total increase 59,200

Decrease on the whole 1,820

GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE ALLOTMENT OF CANAAN, 51-56.

V. 53. The land shall be divided-The land was divided into nine parts and an half, respect being had in such division to the goodness as well as to the largeness of the several portions, and the lot gave each tribe their part. Of names-Of persons, the share of each tribe was divided amongst the several families, to some more, to some less, according to the number of the persons of each family. And withal, if one of the portions proved too large or too little for the families and persons of that tribe, they might give part of their portion to another tribe, (as Simeon and Dan had part of Judah’s share) or take away a part from the portion belonging to another tribe.

Verse 53. The land shall be divided — The land was divided into nine parts and a half, respect being had in such division to the goodness as well as to the largeness of the several portions, and the lot gave each tribe their part. Of names — Of persons: the share of each tribe was divided among the several families, to some more, to some less, according to the number of persons of each family. And withal, if one of the portions proved too large or too little for the families and persons of that tribe, they might give part of their portion to another tribe, (as Simeon and Dan had part of Judah’s share,) or take away a part from the portion belonging to another tribe.

Ver. 53. To these the land shall be divided. What faith: to divide the land before they had conquered it! Lord, increase our faith.

53, 54. According to the number of names — The first principle upon which the tribal allotment must proceed is, that the portion of the tribes must accord with the census returns, the larger tribes receiving the larger shares and the smaller tribes the smaller portions.

53, 54. According to the number of names — The first principle upon which the tribal allotment must proceed is, that the portion of the tribes must accord with the census returns, the larger tribes receiving the larger shares and the smaller tribes the smaller portions.

V. 55. By lot-For the tribes, not for the several families; for the distribution of it to them was left to the rulers wisdom according to the rule now given.

Verse 55. The land shall be divided by lot] The word lrwg goral, translated lot, is supposed by some to signify the stone or pebble formerly used for the purpose of what we term casting lots. The word [Anglo-Saxon] hlot is Anglo-Saxon, from [Anglo-Saxon] to divide, or portion out, i.e., fortuitously: it answers to the Greek klhrov, which some think comes from klaw to break; because the lot, being a sort of appeal to God, (“The lot is cast into the lap, but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord,” Proverbs 16:33,) broke off all contentions and litigations relative to the matter in dispute. From this original division of the promised land by lot to the children of Israel, all portions, appointments, offices, shares, or divisions in spiritual and ecclesiastical matters, were termed lots. So in the New Testament, the word klhrov, lot, is used to signify a portion of spiritual blessedness, and klhronomia, a division by lot, an inheritance; and klhroi, the lotted or appointed persons to different works, shares, &c.; hence our word clergy, klhroi, persons appointed by lot to a lot, portion, or inheritance; see the case of Matthias, Acts 1:26. Persons thus appointed were by accommodation termed inheritors, because originally, when there could be no claims of exclusive right, all lands where a wandering tribe chose to take up its residence were divided by lot, as the promised land in the case before us. So Judah says to Simeon his brother, Judges 1:3: “Come up with me into my lot.” And as God was ever supposed to be the whole disposer in such matters, whatever fell out in the course of God’s providence was called a lot. “This is the lot of them that rob us;” Isaiah 17:14. “Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter;” Acts 8:21. A lot in the promised land was evidently typical of a place in eternal glory. “That they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance (klhron, a lot) among them that are sanctified;” Acts 26:18. “Who hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance, klhrou, of the lot) of the saints in light;” Colossians 1:12. “Which is the earnest of our inheritance, (klhronomiav, of our allotted portion;”) Ephesians 1:4. “What is the riches of the glory of his inheritance,” (klhronomiav, allotted portion;) Ephesians 1:18. As therefore the promised land was divided by lot to the believing Israelites, God determining the lot as he saw good, none of the people having any claim on or right to it; so the kingdom of heaven is a lot given by the mere good will of God to them that believe and obey him; for as unbelief and disobedience threw 600,000 people out of the inheritance of the promised land; so none who disbelieve God’s word, and rebel against his authority, shall ever enter into the kingdom of heaven.-See Ainsworth. These things happened unto them for examples: see then, reader, that thou fall not after the same example of unbelief.

NUMBERS

Verse 55. By lot — The quantity of land, it seems, was to be assigned according to the number in each tribe, but the situation was to be determined by lot, both as to the tribes and as to individuals. For instance, it was determined by lot which of the tribes were to inherit in the south, which in the north, &c. But in that quarter where their lot fell a larger or smaller portion of land was appointed them, according to the goodness of the soil, and in proportion as they were more or less numerous. By these means all ground of quarrel among the several tribes was removed, and each acquiesced in his portion, as assigned by God himself, to whom the appeal was made by lot.

55, 56. The land shall be divided by lot — The principle laid down by Jehovah is, that the location of each tribe must be determined by lot. Since there was a difference in the quality of the land, some being richer and some poorer, to avoid all occasion for complaint in this matter the lot was resorted to as the fairest method of procedure. For the manner of the lot, see Joshua 13:6, note. The result of the lot was regarded, not only by the Hebrews, (Proverbs 16:33; 18:18,) but also by nearly all other nations, as an indication of the divine will. The Greeks and Romans resorted to the lot in the division of conquered lands. Lands are still occasionally divided in this manner.

V. 56. Many and few-That share, which shall by lot fall to each tribe, shall be distributed to the several families and persons in such proportions as their numbers shall require.

Verse 56. Between many and few — The share that shall by lot fall to each tribe, shall be distributed to the several families and persons in such proportions as their numbers shall require.

55, 56. The land shall be divided by lot — The principle laid down by Jehovah is, that the location of each tribe must be determined by lot. Since there was a difference in the quality of the land, some being richer and some poorer, to avoid all occasion for complaint in this matter the lot was resorted to as the fairest method of procedure. For the manner of the lot, see Joshua 13:6, note. The result of the lot was regarded, not only by the Hebrews, (Proverbs 16:33; 18:18,) but also by nearly all other nations, as an indication of the divine will. The Greeks and Romans resorted to the lot in the division of conquered lands. Lands are still occasionally divided in this manner.

CENSUS OF THE LEVITES, 57-62.

As in the Sinaitic enumeration, the census of the Levites was taken separately, thereby showing their non-military, non-secular, and semi-priestly character; The enumeration of the three families of the Levites proceeds regularly till verse 58, where the writer turns aside to trace the descent of Moses and Aaron, and to name the sons of the latter and the judicial death of two of them. Instead of the completion of the census of the Levite families their sum total is given.

57. The Levites — For their character, see Numbers 1:49, note. For their service, see Numbers 3:14-39; 7:3-9, notes. The Gershonites — Numbers 4:21-28, note. The Kohathites — Numbers 4:4-20, notes. The Merarites — Numbers 3:35-37; 4:29-33, notes.

CENSUS OF THE LEVITES, 57-62.

As in the Sinaitic enumeration, the census of the Levites was taken separately, thereby showing their non-military, non-secular, and semi-priestly character; The enumeration of the three families of the Levites proceeds regularly till verse 58, where the writer turns aside to trace the descent of Moses and Aaron, and to name the sons of the latter and the judicial death of two of them. Instead of the completion of the census of the Levite families their sum total is given.

57. The Levites — For their character, see Numbers 1:49, note. For their service, see Numbers 3:14-39; 7:3-9, notes. The Gershonites — Numbers 4:21-28, note. The Kohathites — Numbers 4:4-20, notes. The Merarites — Numbers 3:35-37; 4:29-33, notes.

59. Jochebed — Fully discussed in Exodus 6:20, note. Whom… bare to Levi — There is an omission of the subject in the Hebrew. The implication is, that Levi’s lawful wife was not the mother of Jochebed. “It cannot be Levi’s wife, as Jarshi, Aben Ezra, and others suppose; for Jochebed, the mother of Moses, was not a daughter of Levi in the strict sense of the word, but only a descendant who lived about three hundred years after Levi; just as Amram, her husband, was not actually the son of the Amram mentioned Exodus 6:18, but a later descendant.” — Keil. Miriam — Probably the sister who watched the ark of bulrushes amid the flags of the Nile. Exodus 2:4.

CENSUS OF THE LEVITES, 57-62.

As in the Sinaitic enumeration, the census of the Levites was taken separately, thereby showing their non-military, non-secular, and semi-priestly character; The enumeration of the three families of the Levites proceeds regularly till verse 58, where the writer turns aside to trace the descent of Moses and Aaron, and to name the sons of the latter and the judicial death of two of them. Instead of the completion of the census of the Levite families their sum total is given.

57. The Levites — For their character, see Numbers 1:49, note. For their service, see Numbers 3:14-39; 7:3-9, notes. The Gershonites — Numbers 4:21-28, note. The Kohathites — Numbers 4:4-20, notes. The Merarites — Numbers 3:35-37; 4:29-33, notes.

61. Strange fire — Leviticus 10:1, note.

62. Twenty and three thousand — A gain of only seven hundred and twenty-seven since the Sinaitic census. The tribe of Levi was not numbered among the children of Israel, or enrolled in the general census, for two reasons — it was made on a different basis, from a month old and upward, and it had no reference to the conquest and division of Canaan, in which Levi had no tribal allotment.

THE EXECUTION OF ISRAEL’S PENAL EXCLUSION FROM CANAAN NOTED, 63-65.

64, 65. There was not a man… whom Moses… numbered — That only two out of 603,550 should be alive at the end of only thirty-nine years is unnatural, and that these should be the very two expressly designated beforehand is plainly supernatural. Chap. xiv, notes. No nation was ever better prepared for aggression and conquest. All imbecility and senility had been sifted out; only vigour and enthusiasm was left in the nation, which had but two men above sixty years and an army of 601,730 soldiers between twenty and sixty.

CONCLUDING NOTES.

(1.) The genealogy of this chapter is harmonized with that in Genesis xlvi by the consideration of the fact that there is here an enumeration of those only who established families, all who did not succeed in founding families being omitted. The difference in the names in Genesis and in this chapter is caused chiefly by different vowels attached to the same consonants, as in modern times Jane becomes Jennie.

(2.) A fair analysis of this census makes the total number of the nine and a half tribes who passed over the Jordan under Joshua to have been about two millions. There may have been even more. These must find their homes west of the Jordan, and this, it is argued, was impossible in a country so small as Palestine proper. Here again the main facts cannot be denied. Palestine is a small country — the average breadth not over 50 and the length 150 miles. This gives 7,500 square miles, 500 of which must be deducted for those parts of the seacoast held by Philistines, Phoenicians, and other nations. It must further be admitted that much of the country on the south and west side of the Dead Sea must always have been comparatively sterile. Could 7,000 square miles of such a country sustain 2,000,000 of people? Yes, for it would require only 285 to a square mile, a density of population which has been far exceeded in modern times. Belgium has about 330, North Holland 455, and South Holland 465. It must also be remembered that the mode of living in ancient times was much more simple than now.

V. 65. Not left a man-Only of the Levites, who being not guilty of that sin did not partake of their judgment.

Verse 65. There was not left a man — Except of the Levites, who, not being guilty of that sin, did not partake of their judgment. Save Caleb and Joshua — Whom God promised to spare, in reward of their steady faith and piety.

64, 65. There was not a man… whom Moses… numbered — That only two out of 603,550 should be alive at the end of only thirty-nine years is unnatural, and that these should be the very two expressly designated beforehand is plainly supernatural. Chap. xiv, notes. No nation was ever better prepared for aggression and conquest. All imbecility and senility had been sifted out; only vigour and enthusiasm was left in the nation, which had but two men above sixty years and an army of 601,730 soldiers between twenty and sixty.

CONCLUDING NOTES.

(1.) The genealogy of this chapter is harmonized with that in Genesis xlvi by the consideration of the fact that there is here an enumeration of those only who established families, all who did not succeed in founding families being omitted. The difference in the names in Genesis and in this chapter is caused chiefly by different vowels attached to the same consonants, as in modern times Jane becomes Jennie.

(2.) A fair analysis of this census makes the total number of the nine and a half tribes who passed over the Jordan under Joshua to have been about two millions. There may have been even more. These must find their homes west of the Jordan, and this, it is argued, was impossible in a country so small as Palestine proper. Here again the main facts cannot be denied. Palestine is a small country — the average breadth not over 50 and the length 150 miles. This gives 7,500 square miles, 500 of which must be deducted for those parts of the seacoast held by Philistines, Phoenicians, and other nations. It must further be admitted that much of the country on the south and west side of the Dead Sea must always have been comparatively sterile. Could 7,000 square miles of such a country sustain 2,000,000 of people? Yes, for it would require only 285 to a square mile, a density of population which has been far exceeded in modern times. Belgium has about 330, North Holland 455, and South Holland 465. It must also be remembered that the mode of living in ancient times was much more simple than now.