Numbers 26:55

Indeed, the land must be divided by lot; they shall receive their inheritance according to the names of the tribes of their fathers.

Study Bible

But the land
The phrase "the land" refers to the Promised Land, Canaan, which God had pledged to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In Hebrew, "land" is "eretz," a term that signifies not just physical territory but also a place of divine promise and blessing. The land was central to Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God, symbolizing both physical sustenance and spiritual inheritance.

must be divided
The division of the land was a command, not a suggestion, indicating the importance of order and fairness in the distribution of God's blessings. The Hebrew root "chalaq" means to apportion or distribute, emphasizing the structured and intentional nature of this division. This reflects God's desire for justice and equity among His people, ensuring that each tribe received its rightful share.

by lot
Casting lots was a common biblical practice used to discern God's will, akin to drawing straws or rolling dice. The Hebrew word "goral" refers to this method, which was believed to remove human bias and allow divine sovereignty to guide decisions. This practice underscores the belief that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, directing outcomes according to His perfect wisdom.

they shall receive
The phrase indicates a passive reception, highlighting that the inheritance is a gift from God rather than something earned. The Hebrew verb "laqach" means to take or receive, suggesting that the Israelites were to accept their inheritance with gratitude and humility, recognizing it as a fulfillment of God's promises.

their inheritance
Inheritance, or "nachalah" in Hebrew, is a key biblical concept that extends beyond material possession to include spiritual heritage and identity. For the Israelites, receiving their inheritance was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and a reminder of their covenant relationship with Him. It also pointed forward to the ultimate inheritance believers have in Christ.

according to the names
This phrase emphasizes the personal and familial nature of the inheritance. Each tribe's portion was linked to the names of their ancestors, reinforcing the continuity of God's promises through generations. The Hebrew word "shem" for "name" signifies reputation and character, suggesting that the inheritance was also a reflection of the tribes' unique identities and roles within God's plan.

of their ancestral tribes
The reference to "ancestral tribes" highlights the communal aspect of the inheritance. The Hebrew term "mishpachah" for "tribes" denotes a family or clan, underscoring the importance of community and shared identity in Israel's society. This structure ensured that each tribe maintained its distinct heritage while contributing to the unity and strength of the nation as a whole.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is overseeing the census and the division of the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel, who are preparing to enter and settle in the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants.

4. Ancestral Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel, each descending from one of the sons of Jacob (Israel).

5. Division by Lot
The method by which the land is to be distributed among the tribes, signifying God's sovereignty in the allocation.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Inheritance
The division of the land by lot underscores God's ultimate authority and control over the distribution of resources and blessings. Believers can trust that God has a plan for their lives and will provide for their needs according to His will.

Unity and Identity in Community
The division according to ancestral tribes highlights the importance of community and identity within the body of believers. Christians are encouraged to find their place and purpose within the church, contributing to the collective mission.

Faithfulness to God's Promises
The allocation of the Promised Land is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers are reminded to hold fast to God's promises, trusting that He will bring them to fruition in His timing.

The Role of Divine Guidance in Decision-Making
The use of lots as a means of decision-making reflects a reliance on divine guidance. Christians are encouraged to seek God's direction in their decisions, through prayer and the study of His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the method of dividing the land by lot demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

2. In what ways does the division of the land among the tribes reinforce the importance of community and identity within the church today?

3. How does the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham in the division of the land encourage us to trust in God's promises for our own lives?

4. What are some modern-day equivalents to casting lots that Christians might use to seek God's guidance in decision-making?

5. How can we ensure that our personal and communal decisions align with God's will, as demonstrated in the division of the Promised Land?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 14-19
These chapters describe the actual division of the land among the tribes, fulfilling the instructions given in Numbers 26:55.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that the casting of lots is under God's control, reinforcing the idea that the division of the land was divinely guided.

Genesis 12:7
God's promise to Abraham about giving the land to his descendants, which is being fulfilled in the division of the land.

Acts 1:26
The casting of lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, showing the continued use of lots to discern God's will in the New Testament.