Numbers 26:34

These were the clans of Manasseh, and their registration numbered 52,700.

Study Bible

These were the clans of Manasseh
The phrase "These were the clans of Manasseh" refers to the descendants of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph. In Hebrew, the word for "clans" is "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" (mishpachot), which signifies family groups or extended families. This highlights the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israel. Manasseh, as a son of Joseph, held a significant place among the tribes of Israel, and his descendants were part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars. The mention of "clans" underscores the organized structure of the Israelite community, which was essential for maintaining order and identity during their wilderness journey and eventual settlement in the Promised Land.

and their registration numbered
The phrase "and their registration numbered" indicates a census or counting of the people. In Hebrew, the word for "registration" is "פְּקוּדֵיהֶם" (pekudehem), which can also mean a muster or enrollment. This census was commanded by God to Moses and Eleazar to count the new generation of Israelites after the previous generation had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience. The act of numbering the people was not merely for administrative purposes but was a divine directive to prepare the Israelites for the conquest of Canaan. It also served as a reminder of God's faithfulness in preserving His people despite their past failures.

52,700
The specific number "52,700" represents the total number of men from the tribe of Manasseh who were able to go to war. This figure reflects the growth and strength of the tribe, which was significant given the context of the wilderness period. The increase in numbers from the previous census (Numbers 1:35) demonstrates God's blessing and the fulfillment of His promise to multiply the descendants of Israel. This numerical growth is a testament to God's providence and the resilience of the Israelite community, even in the face of adversity. It also foreshadows the role that the tribe of Manasseh would play in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land, as they were one of the tribes that received a large portion of territory on both sides of the Jordan River.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
Manasseh was one of the tribes of Israel, named after Joseph's firstborn son. The tribe of Manasseh was known for its significant size and strength, playing a crucial role in the history of Israel.

2. Census of Israel
This event refers to the second census of the Israelites in the wilderness, as commanded by God to Moses. It was conducted to determine the number of men eligible for military service as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who, under God's command, conducted the census. Moses was responsible for guiding the Israelites through the wilderness and preparing them for the conquest of Canaan.

4. Eleazar the Priest
The son of Aaron, who assisted Moses in conducting the census. Eleazar played a significant role in the spiritual leadership of Israel.

5. Plains of Moab
The location where the census took place, just before the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The census of Manasseh reflects God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the multiplication of their descendants.

The Importance of Obedience and Preparation
The census was a step of obedience and preparation for entering the Promised Land. It reminds us of the importance of being prepared and obedient to God's commands in our own lives.

The Role of Leadership in God's Plan
Moses and Eleazar's leadership in conducting the census highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding and organizing God's people.

Trust in God's Provision
The large number of the tribe of Manasseh demonstrates God's provision and blessing, encouraging us to trust in His provision for our needs.

Community and Identity in God's People
The identification of clans within the tribe of Manasseh emphasizes the importance of community and identity among God's people, reminding us of our place within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the census of the tribe of Manasseh demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on how you have seen God's faithfulness in your own life.

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually and practically for the tasks God has set before us, as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land?

3. What qualities of leadership do Moses and Eleazar exhibit in conducting the census, and how can we apply these qualities in our own roles of leadership or service?

4. How does the growth and strength of the tribe of Manasseh encourage us to trust in God's provision and blessing in our lives today?

5. Reflect on the importance of community and identity within the body of Christ. How can we strengthen our sense of belonging and purpose within our church or faith community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Manasseh and Ephraim, Joseph's sons. It provides background on the significance of the tribe of Manasseh and its inheritance.

Joshua 17
This chapter details the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh in the Promised Land, showing the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Joseph.

1 Chronicles 7
This passage provides genealogical information about the tribe of Manasseh, highlighting its growth and development over time.