Numbers 2:13

and his division numbers 59,300.

Study Bible

His division
This phrase refers to the specific group or military unit within the larger camp of the Israelites. In the context of the Israelite encampment, each tribe was organized into divisions, which were further subdivided into families and households. The Hebrew word for "division" is "מַחֲנֶה" (machaneh), which can also mean camp or army. This reflects the structured and orderly nature of the Israelite community as they journeyed through the wilderness. The organization into divisions underscores the importance of order and discipline in the life of God's people, emphasizing that God is a God of order, not chaos (1 Corinthians 14:33).

numbers
The act of numbering or counting is significant in the biblical narrative. The Hebrew root "פָּקַד" (paqad) implies a careful and deliberate accounting, often associated with God's providential care and attention to detail. In the context of the Israelites, numbering the people was not merely a logistical exercise but a demonstration of God's intimate knowledge and concern for each individual within the community. It reminds us that every person is known and valued by God, and that He is aware of our circumstances and needs.

59,300
This specific number represents the men of the tribe of Naphtali who were able to go to war. The precision of this number highlights the historical and factual nature of the biblical record. It also reflects the strength and potential of the tribe within the larger community of Israel. The large number signifies God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promise to Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His promises, even when they seem beyond our understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Naphtali
This verse refers to the tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant.

2. Census of Israel
The context of this verse is the census taken by Moses and Aaron as instructed by God, to organize the Israelites for their journey and encampment around the Tabernacle.

3. Wilderness of Sinai
The setting for this event is the wilderness of Sinai, where the Israelites camped after their exodus from Egypt and received the Law from God.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Organization
The census and arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle highlight God's desire for order and structure in the community of believers. This reflects the importance of organization in our spiritual lives and church communities.

Significance of Each Tribe
Every tribe, including Naphtali, had a specific role and place in the camp. This teaches us that each believer has a unique role in the body of Christ, and all are essential to the functioning of the church.

Faithfulness in Numbers
The specific number of 59,300 for the tribe of Naphtali shows God's attention to detail and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham about the multiplication of his descendants. It encourages us to trust in God's promises and His attention to the details of our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the organization of the Israelite camp around the Tabernacle teach us about the importance of God's presence in our lives today?

2. How can we apply the concept of each tribe having a specific role to our understanding of spiritual gifts and roles within the church?

3. In what ways does the account of Naphtali's involvement in the battle against Sisera inspire us to respond to God's call in our own lives?

4. How does the census in Numbers 2 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in times of doubt?

5. Considering the role of the tribe of Naphtali in biblical history, how can we ensure that our own legacy is one of faithfulness and obedience to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30:7-8
This passage describes the birth of Naphtali, providing background on the tribe's patriarch and the meaning of his name, which is associated with struggle and wrestling.

Revelation 7:6
This verse lists the tribe of Naphtali among the sealed tribes of Israel, indicating its continued significance in God's plan.

Judges 4-5
The tribe of Naphtali plays a crucial role in the victory over Sisera, demonstrating their valor and faithfulness to God's call.