15th Century BC (Traditional Dating of the Exodus)
The Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, preparing to enter the Promised Land. They were organized into tribes, each with its own leader, and were governed by laws given by God through Moses.
The Israelites were a nomadic people at this time, not yet settled in Canaan. They were under the leadership of Moses, who acted as both a spiritual and political leader.
The events take place in the wilderness of Sinai, specifically at the base of Mount Sinai, where the Israelites had been camped since receiving the Law.
The census was a means of organizing the people for military and religious purposes. Each tribe was counted by its males aged 20 and above, who were able to go to war. This reflects the patriarchal and tribal structure of Israelite society.
Moses
Aaron
High Priest and brother of Moses, assisting in the census.