Numbers 2:23

and his division numbers 35,400.

Study Bible

The tribe of Benjamin
The tribe of Benjamin holds a significant place in Israel's history. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his descendants formed one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The Hebrew name "Benjamin" means "son of the right hand," symbolizing favor and strength. Historically, the tribe of Benjamin was known for its fierce warriors and played a crucial role in Israel's military campaigns. The tribe's territory was strategically located between the powerful tribes of Judah and Ephraim, which often placed Benjamin in a position of influence and conflict. Notably, King Saul, Israel's first king, was from the tribe of Benjamin, highlighting its importance in the nation's leadership.

will number
The act of numbering or counting the people, as instructed by God, was a way to organize the Israelites for their journey and battles. In Hebrew, the word used for "number" is "paqad," which can also mean to muster or appoint. This census was not merely a logistical exercise but a divine mandate to prepare the Israelites for their mission. It reflects God's orderliness and His concern for each individual within the community. The numbering signifies God's intimate knowledge of His people and His sovereign plan for them.

35,400
This specific number represents the men of fighting age within the tribe of Benjamin. The precision of this count underscores the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the obedience of the Israelites in following them. In the broader context of the census in Numbers, these numbers reflect the strength and readiness of the Israelite community as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The number 35,400, while seemingly mundane, is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by multiplying their descendants. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of each tribe's contribution to the collective mission of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Benjamin
This verse refers to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his descendants formed one of the tribes that camped around the Tabernacle during the Israelites' wilderness journey.

2. Wilderness Journey
The context of this verse is the organization of the Israelite camp during their journey through the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt. Each tribe was assigned a specific position around the Tabernacle.

3. Census
The numbering of the tribes, as seen in this verse, was part of a larger census commanded by God to organize the Israelites for both military and religious purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Organization
The detailed organization of the Israelite camp reflects God's nature of order and structure. Believers can learn the importance of living orderly lives, both spiritually and practically.

Significance of Each Tribe
Every tribe, including Benjamin, had a role and purpose in God's plan. This teaches us that each person has a unique role in the body of Christ, and no one is insignificant.

Preparation for Spiritual Warfare
The census was partly for military readiness. Similarly, Christians are called to be spiritually prepared, putting on the full armor of God to stand firm against spiritual challenges.

Community and Unity
The tribes camped together, emphasizing the importance of community and unity among God's people. Believers are encouraged to foster unity within the church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the organization of the Israelite camp reflect God's character, and how can we apply this principle of order in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the tribe of Benjamin's role in the wilderness journey parallel the roles we have within our church communities today?

3. Considering the census's purpose, how can we prepare ourselves for spiritual battles in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the unity and community of the Israelite tribes that can be applied to fostering unity in our local church?

5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of the tribe of Benjamin enhance our reading of other biblical accounts involving this tribe?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 35:18
This verse provides background on Benjamin's birth, which is significant for understanding the tribe's origins and its place among the tribes of Israel.

Numbers 1:36-37
These verses provide additional context for the census of the tribe of Benjamin, showing the consistency in the number of fighting men.

Judges 20:15-17
This passage highlights the military prowess of the tribe of Benjamin, which is relevant given the census's focus on counting able-bodied men for warfare.