59300
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Verse:
"The number of men registered with the tribe of Simeon was 59,300." (Numbers 1:23, Berean Standard Bible)

Context and Background:
Numbers 1:23 is part of the opening chapter of the Book of Numbers, which is the fourth book of the Pentateuch in the Old Testament. This book is traditionally attributed to Moses and is a continuation of the narrative that began in Exodus and Leviticus. The Book of Numbers derives its name from the censuses of the Israelite tribes that are recorded within its pages. These censuses were conducted during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt.

Analysis:
In Numbers 1:23, the focus is on the tribe of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The verse records the number of men eligible for military service from this tribe, totaling 59,300. This census was commanded by God and carried out by Moses and Aaron, as detailed in the earlier verses of the chapter. The purpose of the census was to organize the Israelites for their journey and eventual conquest of the Promised Land.

The tribe of Simeon, named after the second son of Jacob and Leah, played a significant role in the history of Israel. However, the tribe's numbers and influence fluctuated over time. The census in Numbers 1 reflects a relatively large and robust tribe, but later biblical accounts, such as in the Book of Joshua, indicate a decline in their prominence and territory.

Theological Significance:
The census in Numbers 1, including the count of the tribe of Simeon, underscores the importance of order and preparation in the life of the Israelites. It reflects God's concern for the organization and readiness of His people as they prepared to enter the land He had promised to their ancestors. The specific enumeration of each tribe also highlights the individual and collective identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people.

From a theological perspective, the census serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. Despite the challenges and rebellions faced by the Israelites, God continued to guide and sustain them. The detailed records of the tribes emphasize the importance of community and the role of each individual within the larger body of God's people.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
The practice of taking a census was not uncommon in the ancient Near East, often conducted for military or taxation purposes. In the context of Numbers, the census was primarily for military organization, as only men aged twenty and above were counted. This reflects the societal structure and priorities of the time, where tribal affiliation and military capability were crucial for survival and success.

The tribe of Simeon's initial strength, as recorded in Numbers 1:23, contrasts with its later decline, offering insights into the shifting dynamics within the Israelite confederation. This fluctuation can be attributed to various factors, including inter-tribal relations, territorial allocations, and historical events that impacted the tribe's development.

Conclusion:
Numbers 1:23 provides a snapshot of the tribe of Simeon's strength during a pivotal moment in Israel's history. It serves as a testament to the organizational efforts of the Israelites under divine guidance and highlights the broader themes of identity, community, and faithfulness that permeate the biblical narrative. Through this verse, readers are invited to reflect on the importance of preparation, unity, and trust in God's promises as they navigate their own journeys of faith.
Concordance
59300 (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 1:23
those who were numbered of them, of the tribe of Simeon, were fifty-nine thousand three hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

Numbers 2:13
His division, and those who were numbered of them, were fifty-nine thousand three hundred.
(See NAS NIV)

Thesaurus
59300 (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance 59300 (2 Occurrences). Numbers 1:23 those who were numbered
of them, of the tribe of Simeon, were fifty-nine thousand three hundred. ...
/num/59300.htm - 6k

60000 (1 Occurrence)

/num/60000.htm - 6k

57400 (2 Occurrences)

/num/57400.htm - 6k

Simeon (48 Occurrences)
... The statistics in Numbers 1:22, where the Simeonites are given as 59,300, compared
with the 2nd census (Numbers 26:14), where the numbers are 22,200, indicate ...
/s/simeon.htm - 35k

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