Numbers 1:12

from Dan, Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai;

Study Bible

from Dan
The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Dan's name means "judge," reflecting Rachel's declaration that God had judged her favorably. Geographically, the territory allotted to Dan was located in the northern part of Israel, although initially, it was in the central coastal region. The tribe is known for its later migration northward, as recorded in Judges 18. Dan's role in the tribal confederation was significant, often associated with judgment and leadership, as seen in the blessing of Jacob in Genesis 49:16-17.

Ahiezer
Ahiezer means "my brother is help" or "brother of help," indicating a name that reflects reliance on familial support or divine assistance. Names in the biblical context often carried significant meaning, reflecting the character or destiny of the individual. Ahiezer was chosen as the leader or representative of the tribe of Dan during the census in the wilderness, highlighting his status and the trust placed in him by his tribe.

son of Ammishaddai
Ammishaddai means "people of the Almighty" or "my kinsman is the Almighty," which underscores a connection to God and a recognition of divine authority and protection. The use of "son of" in biblical genealogies emphasizes lineage and heritage, which were crucial for identity and inheritance in Israelite society. This phrase also reflects the importance of family and tribal connections in maintaining the social and religious structure of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dan
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Dan, the fifth son of Jacob and the first son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The tribe of Dan was known for its later struggles with idolatry and relocation to the northern part of Israel.

2. Ahiezer
The leader of the tribe of Dan during the census in the wilderness. His name means "my brother is help" in Hebrew, indicating a sense of community and support.

3. Ammishaddai
The father of Ahiezer. His name means "people of the Almighty" in Hebrew, reflecting a connection to God's power and presence.

4. Census in the Wilderness
This event was commanded by God to Moses to count the Israelite men able to go to war. It was a significant organizational step for the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Legacy
Ahiezer's role as a leader of his tribe reminds us of the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to guide their people in faithfulness to God, setting an example in both word and deed.

Names and Identity
The meanings of names like Ahiezer and Ammishaddai reflect the identity and calling of individuals and communities. As believers, we are called to live up to the identity we have in Christ, as children of God.

Community and Support
Ahiezer's name, meaning "my brother is help," emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support among believers. We are called to bear one another's burdens and support each other in our spiritual journeys.

Faithfulness in Preparation
The census was a preparation for entering the Promised Land. Similarly, we are called to be prepared for the spiritual battles we face, equipped with the armor of God and ready to follow His leading.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the leadership of Ahiezer about the qualities of a godly leader?

2. How does the meaning of Ahiezer's name, "my brother is help," challenge us to support one another in our faith communities?

3. In what ways does the tribe of Dan's history, including their struggles with idolatry, serve as a warning for us today?

4. How can we apply the concept of preparation, as seen in the census, to our spiritual lives and readiness for God's calling?

5. Considering the absence of Dan in Revelation 7, what lessons can we draw about faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30:6
This verse provides the background of Dan's birth, connecting the tribe's origin to Jacob's family dynamics and God's provision.

Judges 18
This chapter describes the migration of the tribe of Dan and their struggles with idolatry, highlighting the long-term spiritual challenges faced by the tribe.

Revelation 7:4-8
The tribe of Dan is notably absent from the list of the sealed tribes, which has led to various interpretations about their spiritual state and legacy.