Numbers 1:35

those registered to the tribe of Manasseh numbered 32,200.

Study Bible

those registered
The Hebrew word used here is "פְּקֻדֵי" (pequdei), which refers to those who are counted or mustered. In the context of the Israelite community, this registration was not merely a census for demographic purposes but a divine mandate for organizing the tribes for both religious and military functions. The act of registration signifies God's order and structure within His chosen people, emphasizing accountability and readiness for service.

to the tribe of Manasseh
Manasseh was one of the tribes of Israel, named after Joseph's firstborn son. The tribe's name, "מְנַשֶּׁה" (Menasheh), means "causing to forget," reflecting Joseph's sentiment of forgetting his hardships in Egypt. Historically, Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes, along with Ephraim, that descended from Joseph. This tribe held a significant portion of land on both sides of the Jordan River, indicating its importance and influence. The mention of Manasseh here highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Joseph that his descendants would become a great people.

numbered 32,200
The specific number, 32,200, reflects the precision and care with which God instructed Moses to organize the people. Each number in the census is significant, representing individuals who were part of God's covenant community. The counting of the men of fighting age underscores the readiness for battle and the protection of the community. This number also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in multiplying the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. The precision of this number reflects the orderliness and intentionality of God's plans for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. The tribe is significant in the history of Israel, often noted for its size and military strength.

2. Census of Israel
This event, commanded by God, was conducted by Moses and Aaron to count the number of men eligible for military service among the tribes of Israel. It was a crucial step in organizing the Israelites for their journey and conquest of the Promised Land.

3. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites during the Exodus. Moses, as the prophet and leader, and Aaron, as the high priest, were responsible for conducting the census as instructed by God.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Organization
The census reflects God's desire for order and organization among His people. It teaches us the importance of structure and preparation in our spiritual and daily lives.

Identity and Inheritance
The tribe of Manasseh, as part of the larger community of Israel, reminds us of our identity in Christ and our inheritance as God's children. We are part of a spiritual family with a shared mission and purpose.

Faithfulness in Small Details
The specific number of 32,200 shows God's attention to detail. It encourages us to be faithful in the small things, trusting that God sees and values every aspect of our lives.

Preparedness for Spiritual Battle
The census was for military purposes, reminding us of the spiritual battles we face. We must be prepared and equipped, wearing the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the census of the tribe of Manasseh teach us about the importance of community and belonging in the body of Christ?

2. How can we apply the principle of order and organization from this passage to our personal and spiritual lives?

3. In what ways does understanding our identity in Christ, similar to the identity of the tribe of Manasseh, impact our daily walk with God?

4. How does the concept of being prepared for spiritual battles, as seen in the census for military purposes, influence your approach to prayer and spiritual disciplines?

5. Reflect on a time when attention to detail in your spiritual life led to a deeper understanding or experience of God's presence. How can you cultivate this attentiveness in your current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter provides the background of the tribe of Manasseh, where Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and adopts them as his own, giving them a share in the inheritance of Israel.

Joshua 17
This passage describes the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh in the Promised Land, highlighting their role and presence in the history of Israel.

Revelation 7
In the vision of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel, the tribe of Manasseh is mentioned, indicating its continued significance in the eschatological vision of God's people.