Numbers 1:31

those registered to the tribe of Zebulun numbered 57,400.

Study Bible

those registered
The Hebrew word used here is "פְּקֻדֵי" (pequdei), which refers to those who are counted or mustered. This term is significant in the context of the census that God commanded Moses to take. The act of registration was not merely a bureaucratic exercise but a divine mandate to organize the people of Israel for their journey and eventual conquest of the Promised Land. It underscores the importance of order and preparation in fulfilling God's purposes.

to the tribe of Zebulun
Zebulun was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's tenth son, Zebulun, whose mother was Leah. The tribe of Zebulun held a significant position among the tribes, often associated with commerce and trade due to their proximity to the sea. Historically, Zebulun's territory was located in the northern part of Israel, which later became part of the region of Galilee. This tribe's mention in the census highlights its role and contribution to the collective strength of Israel.

numbered 57,400
The specific number, 57,400, reflects the size and strength of the tribe of Zebulun at the time of the census. In the Hebrew text, numbers often carry symbolic meaning, and large numbers like this one indicate the tribe's substantial contribution to the military and communal life of Israel. This figure also demonstrates God's blessing and fulfillment of His promise to Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars. The precision of the number underscores the meticulous nature of the census and God's attention to detail in His plans for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Zebulun
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Zebulun, the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe is known for its later settlement in the northern part of the Promised Land.

2. Census of Israel
This event in the Book of Numbers involves the counting of the Israelite men able to go to war. It was commanded by God to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who conducted the census as instructed by God. He is a central figure in the Pentateuch, leading the Israelites out of Egypt.

4. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the census took place. It is a significant place in Israelite history, where they received the Law and wandered for 40 years.

5. God's Command
The census was conducted as a direct command from God, emphasizing obedience and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The census was conducted as a direct command from God, highlighting the importance of obedience in our lives. We should seek to follow God's instructions even when we may not fully understand the purpose.

Preparation and Readiness
The counting of able-bodied men for war underscores the need for preparation. In our spiritual lives, we must be prepared to face challenges and spiritual battles with readiness and faith.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The tribe of Zebulun's growth and later inheritance of land demonstrate God's faithfulness. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises to us, just as He did for the Israelites.

Community and Identity
The census helped establish a sense of identity and community among the tribes. In the church, understanding our identity in Christ and our role within the body of believers is crucial.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the census of the tribe of Zebulun teach us about the importance of community and identity within the body of Christ?

2. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the census to our daily walk with God?

3. In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the challenges we face, similar to how the Israelites prepared for entering the Promised Land?

4. How does the fulfillment of God's promises to the tribe of Zebulun encourage us in trusting God's promises in our own lives?

5. What lessons can we learn from the tribe of Zebulun's role in Israel's history that can be applied to our roles within our local church communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:13
This verse contains Jacob's blessing to Zebulun, prophesying their future dwelling by the sea, which connects to their later geographical location and role in trade.

Joshua 19:10-16
Describes the allotment of land to the tribe of Zebulun, fulfilling the prophecy and showing God's faithfulness to His promises.

Revelation 7:8
Zebulun is mentioned among the sealed tribes of Israel, indicating their continued significance in God's plan.