The concept of the "Total Number of the Assembly" in the Bible often refers to the census or counting of the Israelites, particularly during their wilderness journey and in the establishment of their community in the Promised Land. This enumeration was significant for organizational, military, and religious purposes, reflecting the structure and order that God intended for His chosen people.

Biblical Instances:

1. The Census in the Wilderness:
The Book of Numbers derives its name from the censuses recorded within it. The first census is detailed in Numbers 1:1-3, where God commands Moses to count the entire assembly of the Israelites by their clans and families. The purpose was to determine the number of men able to serve in the army: "Take a census of the whole congregation of Israel by their clans and families, listing every man by name, one by one. You and Aaron are to number those who are twenty years of age or older by their divisions—everyone who can serve in Israel’s army" (Numbers 1:2-3).

2. The Second Census:
A second census occurs later in the wilderness journey, as recorded in Numbers 26. This census was taken after a plague had struck the Israelites, and it served to prepare the new generation for entering the Promised Land. Numbers 26:2 states, "Take a census of the whole congregation of Israel, those twenty years of age and older, by the houses of their fathers—all who can serve in the army of Israel" .

3. David’s Census:
Another significant instance of counting the assembly is found in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21, where King David orders a census of Israel and Judah. This act, however, was met with divine disapproval, as it reflected a reliance on human strength rather than trust in God. The consequence was a plague that struck the people, demonstrating the importance of aligning actions with divine will.

Theological Significance:

The censuses in the Bible underscore the importance of order and preparation within the community of God’s people. They highlight the need for readiness in both spiritual and physical battles. The counting of the assembly also reflects the communal nature of Israel’s identity, emphasizing that each individual is part of a larger covenant community.

Moreover, the censuses serve as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Despite the challenges faced in the wilderness, the numbers recorded in the censuses demonstrate God’s provision and the growth of His people, preparing them for the inheritance of the land promised to their forefathers.

Symbolism and Lessons:

The act of counting the assembly can be seen as a symbol of accountability and stewardship. It reminds believers of the importance of being counted among God’s people and the responsibility that comes with it. The censuses also teach lessons about obedience and the consequences of actions that deviate from God’s commands, as seen in the account of David’s census.

In summary, the "Total Number of the Assembly" is a recurring theme that illustrates the organizational structure, communal identity, and spiritual lessons integral to the life of God’s people as depicted in the Scriptures.