# Overview Numbers Chapter 26 presents a significant moment for the people of #Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This chapter records a census of the new generation of Israelites, following the divine command to #Moses and #Eleazar the priest. The census is crucial, as it determines the military strength of each tribe and prepares them for the allocation of the land of #Canaan. The enumeration includes the twelve tribes of Israel, listing the descendants and clans of each, with particular attention to the number of men able to go to war. This census marks a transition from the generation that left #Egypt and wandered in the wilderness for forty years to a new generation ready to fulfill #God's promise. This chapter also highlights the continuity and faithfulness of God's plan despite the disobedience that led to the previous generation's demise in the wilderness. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commandments. Notably, the chapter mentions the daughters of #Zelophehad, leading to a later discussion about inheritance rights for women, which signifies a change in the societal norms and laws among the Israelites. The chapter ends with a reminder of God's judgment, as none of the men who were counted in the previous census except for #Caleb and #Joshua survived to be included in this new count, reiterating the consequences of unbelief and rebellion against God's commands. ## Theological Insights Numbers 26 serves as a pivotal chapter in the journey of the #Israelites, marking the transition from the old generation that perished in the wilderness to a new generation poised to enter the #PromisedLand. This chapter, by recounting the second census of the Israelites, underscores themes of divine #judgment, #faithfulness, and #hope. 1. **Divine Judgment and Faithfulness**: The census is a reminder of God's judgment on the previous generation. The death of the previous generation as a consequence of their rebellion and unbelief (as recorded in [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 14]]) is a sobering indication of the seriousness with which God views covenant fidelity. It also highlights God's faithfulness in preserving the lineage of #Israel even amidst judgment, fulfilling His promise to bring the descendants of #Abraham into the land He swore to give them. 2. **Hope for a New Generation**: The enumeration of the tribes signifies a fresh start and a renewed hope for the future. The fact that the number of Israelites remains substantial despite the deaths in the wilderness demonstrates God's providence and care. This new generation is given the opportunity to trust in God's promises and enter the land of #Canaan, contrasting with the failures of their forebears. 3. **Inheritance and Continuity**: The chapter also sets the stage for the division of the land among the tribes, which is detailed later in the book. The census is not merely a record of numbers but a preparation for the allocation of the inheritance, ensuring that each tribe receives its portion according to divine instruction. This reinforces the theme of God's orderly plan and His commitment to the promises made to the patriarchs, establishing a continuity between the past, present, and future of the nation of Israel. 4. **Leadership and Responsibility**: The mention of #Eleazar the priest and #Moses conducting the census highlights the role of leadership in guiding the community according to God's commands. This emphasizes the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility of leaders to prepare the people for the fulfillment of God's promises. Overall, Numbers 26 is a testament to God's unchanging nature and His steadfast commitment to His covenant people. It invites reflection on the themes of obedience, faithfulness, and the enduring hope found in God's promises. ## Thematic Connections ### Continuity and Renewal of the Covenant People In Numbers 26, we witness the second census of the Israelites, signifying continuity and renewal of God’s covenant people. This theme is essential as it marks a new generation ready to inherit the Promised Land, connecting to the promises made to #Abraham in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 12|Genesis 12:2]] and reiterated to #Jacob in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 28|Genesis 28:14]]. The theme underscores God’s faithfulness in preserving His people despite previous rebellions and the passage of time. ### Transition from Wilderness to Inheritance The census in Numbers 26 highlights the transition from the wilderness wanderings to the inheritance of the land. This theme is linked to the transition from bondage in #Egypt to freedom, as seen in [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 12|Exodus 12]]. The chapter prepares the Israelites to step into the promises of God, paralleling the journey from spiritual death to life in Christ as expressed in [[Romans/Romans Chapter 6|Romans 6:4]]. ### Judgment and Mercy The recounting of those who perished in the wilderness due to disobedience, contrasted with the new generation, emphasizes the theme of judgment and mercy. The absence of those who rebelled against God’s commands, such as the followers of #Korah ([[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 16|Numbers 16]]), illustrates God’s justice. Simultaneously, the preservation of the faithful and the rise of a new generation reflect His mercy and readiness to fulfill His promises, akin to [[Lamentations/Lamentations Chapter 3|Lamentations 3:22-23]]. ### Inheritance and Tribal Identity Numbers 26 also emphasizes the importance of inheritance and tribal identity. Each tribe’s count serves as a basis for the distribution of the land, confirming their identity as the chosen people of God. This theme is evident in the earlier blessings given to the tribes by Jacob in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 49|Genesis 49]] and Moses in [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 33|Deuteronomy 33]], showcasing God’s plan for each tribe within His covenant community. ### Leadership and Responsibility The leadership transition is another significant theme as #Joshua is set to lead the people into the Promised Land. This transition connects to the leadership of #Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt. The theme of leadership and responsibility is further illustrated in the pastoral care that leaders like Moses and Joshua must exhibit, reflecting the shepherd-like leadership of Christ as the Good Shepherd in [[John/John Chapter 10|John 10:11]]. ## Prophetic Fulfillments ### The Continuation of God's Promise to Abraham In Numbers 26, the census of the Israelites is taken as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This chapter reflects the fulfillment and continuation of God's promise to #Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky and would inherit the land of Canaan. This promise is first found in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 15|Genesis 15:5]] and reiterated in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 17|Genesis 17:2-8]]. The census underscores the fulfillment of this covenant as the people of #Israel approach the realization of their inheritance. ### The Establishment of the Land Allotment The counting of the Israelites in Numbers 26 serves as a preparatory step for the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. This action fulfills the promises made to the patriarchs regarding their descendants possessing the land. The division of the land is further detailed in [[Joshua/Joshua Chapter 14|Joshua 14]], where the tribes receive their inheritance. The census, therefore, is a crucial step in the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the land to the descendants of #Jacob, also known as #Israel. ### The Preservation of God's People In Numbers 26, the new generation of Israelites is counted, highlighting the continuity of God's people despite the judgment that fell upon the previous generation due to their disobedience. This preservation aligns with God's promise to maintain a remnant of His people, as seen in [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 10|Isaiah 10:20-22]]. The survival of a new generation to fulfill God's purposes underscores His faithfulness to His promises despite human failure. ### The Role of the Levites The separate counting of the #Levites in Numbers 26 emphasizes their distinct role in Israel's religious life, fulfilling the prophecy of their unique service to God as outlined in [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 32|Exodus 32:26-29]] and [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 10|Deuteronomy 10:8]]. The Levites' ongoing service and their allocation of cities instead of land inheritance highlight their prophetic role as mediators between God and His people, ensuring the spiritual leadership and worship life of Israel remain intact. ### The Transition to a New Leadership The census in Numbers 26 sets the stage for the leadership transition from #Moses to #Joshua, as seen in subsequent chapters like [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 27|Numbers 27]]. This transition fulfills God's promise to raise up leaders for Israel who will lead them into the Promised Land, as initially indicated in [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 31|Deuteronomy 31:7-8]]. Joshua’s leadership symbolizes the continuation of God’s plan for His people, ensuring the promises given to the patriarchs are realized. ## Verses - **Numbers 26:1** - "After the plague had ended, the LORD said to Moses and to Eleazar son of Aaron the priest," - **Numbers 26:2** - "“From the whole community of Israel, record the names of all the warriors by their families—list all the men twenty years old or older who are able to go to war.”" - **Numbers 26:3** - "So there on the plains of Moab beside the Jordan River, across from Jericho, Moses and Eleazar the priest issued these instructions to the leaders of Israel:" - **Numbers 26:4** - "“List all the men of Israel twenty years old and older, just as the LORD commanded Moses.” This is the record of all the descendants of Israel who came out of Egypt." - **Numbers 26:5** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Reuben, Jacob’s oldest son: The Hanochite clan, named after their ancestor Hanoch. The Palluite clan, named after their ancestor Pallu." - **Numbers 26:6** - "The Hezronite clan, named after their ancestor Hezron. The Carmite clan, named after their ancestor Carmi." - **Numbers 26:7** - "These were the clans of Reuben. Their registered troops numbered 43,730." - **Numbers 26:8** - "Pallu was the ancestor of Eliab," - **Numbers 26:9** - "and Eliab was the father of Nemuel, Dathan, and Abiram. This Dathan and Abiram are the same community leaders who conspired with Korah against Moses and Aaron, rebelling against the LORD." - See [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 16]] for the rebellion of #Korah. - **Numbers 26:10** - "But the earth opened up its mouth and swallowed them with Korah, and fire devoured 250 of their followers. This served as a warning to the entire nation of Israel." - See [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 16]] for more on this event. - **Numbers 26:11** - "However, the sons of Korah did not die that day." - **Numbers 26:12** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Simeon: The Jemuelite clan, named after their ancestor Jemuel. The Jaminite clan, named after their ancestor Jamin. The Jakinite clan, named after their ancestor Jakin." - **Numbers 26:13** - "The Zoharite clan, named after their ancestor Zohar. The Shaulite clan, named after their ancestor Shaul." - **Numbers 26:14** - "These were the clans of Simeon. Their registered troops numbered 22,200." - **Numbers 26:15** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Gad: The Zephonite clan, named after their ancestor Zephon. The Haggite clan, named after their ancestor Haggi. The Shunite clan, named after their ancestor Shuni." - **Numbers 26:16** - "The Oznite clan, named after their ancestor Ozni. The Erite clan, named after their ancestor Eri." - **Numbers 26:17** - "The Arodite clan, named after their ancestor Arodi. The Arelite clan, named after their ancestor Areli." - **Numbers 26:18** - "These were the clans of Gad. Their registered troops numbered 40,500." - **Numbers 26:19** - "Judah had two sons, Er and Onan, who had died in the land of Canaan." - See [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 38]] for the story of #Er and #Onan. - **Numbers 26:20** - "These were the clans descended from Judah’s surviving sons: The Shelanite clan, named after their ancestor Shelah. The Perezite clan, named after their ancestor Perez. The Zerahite clan, named after their ancestor Zerah." - **Numbers 26:21** - "These were the subclans descended from the Perezites: The Hezronites, named after their ancestor Hezron. The Hamulites, named after their ancestor Hamul." - **Numbers 26:22** - "These were the clans of Judah. Their registered troops numbered 76,500." - **Numbers 26:23** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Issachar: The Tolaite clan, named after their ancestor Tola. The Puite clan, named after their ancestor Puah." - **Numbers 26:24** - "The Jashubite clan, named after their ancestor Jashub. The Shimronite clan, named after their ancestor Shimron." - **Numbers 26:25** - "These were the clans of Issachar. Their registered troops numbered 64,300." - **Numbers 26:26** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Zebulun: The Seredite clan, named after their ancestor Sered. The Elonite clan, named after their ancestor Elon. The Jahleelite clan, named after their ancestor Jahleel." - **Numbers 26:27** - "These were the clans of Zebulun. Their registered troops numbered 60,500." - **Numbers 26:28** - "Two clans were descended from Joseph through Manasseh and Ephraim." - See [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 48]] for the blessing of #Manasseh and #Ephraim. - **Numbers 26:29** - "These were the clans descended from Manasseh: The Makirite clan, named after their ancestor Makir. The Gileadite clan, named after their ancestor Gilead, Makir’s son." - **Numbers 26:30** - "These were the subclans descended from the Gileadites: The Iezerites, named after their ancestor Iezer. The Helekites, named after their ancestor Helek." - **Numbers 26:31** - "The Asrielites, named after their ancestor Asriel. The Shechemites, named after their ancestor Shechem." - **Numbers 26:32** - "The Shemidaites, named after their ancestor Shemida. The Hepherites, named after their ancestor Hepher." - **Numbers 26:33** - "One of Hepher’s descendants, Zelophehad, had no sons, but his daughters’ names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah." - **Numbers 26:34** - "These were the clans of Manasseh. Their registered troops numbered 52,700." - **Numbers 26:35** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Ephraim: The Shuthelahite clan, named after their ancestor Shuthelah. The Bekerite clan, named after their ancestor Beker. The Tahanite clan, named after their ancestor Tahan." - **Numbers 26:36** - "This was the subclan descended from the Shuthelahites: The Eranites, named after their ancestor Eran." - **Numbers 26:37** - "These were the clans of Ephraim. Their registered troops numbered 32,500. These clans of Manasseh and Ephraim were all descendants of Joseph." - **Numbers 26:38** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Benjamin: The Belaite clan, named after their ancestor Bela. The Ashbelite clan, named after their ancestor Ashbel. The Ahiramite clan, named after their ancestor Ahiram." - **Numbers 26:39** - "The Shuphamite clan, named after their ancestor Shupham. The Huphamite clan, named after their ancestor Hupham." - **Numbers 26:40** - "These were the subclans descended from the Belaite clan: The Ardites, named after their ancestor Ard. The Naamites, named after their ancestor Naaman." - **Numbers 26:41** - "These were the clans of Benjamin. Their registered troops numbered 45,600." - **Numbers 26:42** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Dan: The Shuhamite clan, named after their ancestor Shuham." - **Numbers 26:43** - "These were the Shuhamite clans of Dan. Their registered troops numbered 64,400." - **Numbers 26:44** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Asher: The Imnite clan, named after their ancestor Imnah. The Ishvite clan, named after their ancestor Ishvi. The Beriite clan, named after their ancestor Beriah." - **Numbers 26:45** - "These were the subclans descended from the Beriites: The Heberites, named after their ancestor Heber. The Malchielites, named after their ancestor Malchiel." - **Numbers 26:46** - "Asher also had a daughter named Serah." - **Numbers 26:47** - "These were the clans of Asher. Their registered troops numbered 53,400." - **Numbers 26:48** - "These were the clans descended from the sons of Naphtali: The Jahzeelite clan, named after their ancestor Jahzeel. The Gunite clan, named after their ancestor Guni." - **Numbers 26:49** - "The Jezerite clan, named after their ancestor Jezer. The Shillemite clan, named after their ancestor Shillem." - **Numbers 26:50** - "These were the clans of Naphtali. Their registered troops numbered 45,400." - **Numbers 26:51** - "In summary, the registered troops of all Israel numbered 601,730." - **Numbers 26:52** - "Then the LORD said to Moses," - **Numbers 26:53** - "“Divide the land among the tribes, and distribute the grants of land in proportion to the tribe’s populations, as indicated by the number of names on the list." - **Numbers 26:54** - "Give the larger tribes more land and the smaller tribes less land, each group receiving a grant in proportion to the size of its population." - **Numbers 26:55** - "But you must assign the land by lot, and give land to each ancestral tribe according to the number of names on the list." - **Numbers 26:56** - "Each grant of land must be assigned by lot among the larger and smaller tribal groups.”" - **Numbers 26:57** - "These are the Levites who were counted: The Gershonite clan, named after their ancestor Gershon. The Kohathite clan, named after their ancestor Kohath. The Merarite clan, named after their ancestor Merari." - **Numbers 26:58** - "The Libnites, the Hebronites, the Mahlites, the Mushites, and the Korahites were all subclans of the Levites. Now Kohath was the ancestor of Amram," - **Numbers 26:59** - "and Amram’s wife was named Jochebed. She also was a descendant of Levi, born among the #Levites in the land of Egypt. Amram and Jochebed became the parents of Aaron, Moses, and their sister Miriam." - See [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 2]] for more on #Moses and his family. - **Numbers 26:60** - "To Aaron were born Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar." - **Numbers 26:61** - "But Nadab and Abihu died when they burned before the LORD the wrong kind of fire, different than he had commanded." - See [[Leviticus/Leviticus Chapter 10]] for the death of #Nadab and #Abihu. - **Numbers 26:62** - "The men from the Levite clans who were one month old or older numbered 23,000. But the Levites were not included in the registration of the rest of the people of Israel, because they were not given an allotment of land when it was divided among the Israelites." - **Numbers 26:63** - "So these are the results of the registration of the people of Israel as conducted by Moses and Eleazar the priest on the plains of Moab beside the Jordan River, across from Jericho." - **Numbers 26:64** - "Not one person on this list had been among those listed in the previous registration taken by Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai." - See [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 1]] for the previous census. - **Numbers 26:65** - "For the LORD had said of them, “They will all die in the wilderness.” Not one of them survived except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun." - See [[Numbers/Numbers Chapter 14]] for the faithfulness of #Caleb and #Joshua.