Numbers 1:35

those registered to the tribe of Manasseh numbered 32,200.

Study Bible

those registered to the tribe of Manasseh
The tribe of Manasseh was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph and Asenath, an Egyptian woman. Manasseh, along with his brother Ephraim, received a blessing from their grandfather Jacob, who adopted them as his own sons (Genesis 48:5). This adoption effectively gave Joseph a double portion among the tribes of Israel. The tribe of Manasseh was unique in that it was divided into two half-tribes, with one half settling east of the Jordan River and the other half settling west. This division is significant in understanding the geographical and political landscape of ancient Israel. The tribe's location on both sides of the Jordan River made it strategically important and often involved in conflicts with neighboring peoples. The census in Numbers 1 was conducted to organize the Israelites for military purposes, and the registration of the tribe of Manasseh reflects their role in the collective defense and conquest of the Promised Land.

numbered 32,200
The census number of 32,200 men of fighting age (20 years and older) from the tribe of Manasseh indicates the tribe's military potential at the time of the wilderness wanderings. This figure is part of the larger census that counted the total number of Israelite men able to go to war, which was 603,550 (Numbers 1:46). The number reflects the tribe's size and strength relative to other tribes. Historically, the tribe of Manasseh was not one of the largest tribes, and its numbers here are smaller compared to tribes like Judah or Ephraim. This census was crucial for organizing the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, highlighting the importance of each tribe's contribution to the collective mission. The specific number also underscores the meticulous nature of the record-keeping and organization within the Israelite community, as commanded by God through Moses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. The tribe is significant in the history of Israel, often noted for its size and military strength.

2. Census of Israel
This event, commanded by God, was conducted by Moses and Aaron to count the number of men eligible for military service among the tribes of Israel. It was a crucial step in organizing the Israelites for their journey and conquest of the Promised Land.

3. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites during the Exodus. Moses, as the prophet and leader, and Aaron, as the high priest, were responsible for conducting the census as instructed by God.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Organization
The census reflects God's desire for order and organization among His people. It teaches us the importance of structure and preparation in our spiritual and daily lives.

Identity and Inheritance
The tribe of Manasseh, as part of the larger community of Israel, reminds us of our identity in Christ and our inheritance as God's children. We are part of a spiritual family with a shared mission and purpose.

Faithfulness in Small Details
The specific number of 32,200 shows God's attention to detail. It encourages us to be faithful in the small things, trusting that God sees and values every aspect of our lives.

Preparedness for Spiritual Battle
The census was for military purposes, reminding us of the spiritual battles we face. We must be prepared and equipped, wearing the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the census of the tribe of Manasseh teach us about the importance of community and belonging in the body of Christ?

2. How can we apply the principle of order and organization from this passage to our personal and spiritual lives?

3. In what ways does understanding our identity in Christ, similar to the identity of the tribe of Manasseh, impact our daily walk with God?

4. How does the concept of being prepared for spiritual battles, as seen in the census for military purposes, influence your approach to prayer and spiritual disciplines?

5. Reflect on a time when attention to detail in your spiritual life led to a deeper understanding or experience of God's presence. How can you cultivate this attentiveness in your current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter provides the background of the tribe of Manasseh, where Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and adopts them as his own, giving them a share in the inheritance of Israel.

Joshua 17
This passage describes the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh in the Promised Land, highlighting their role and presence in the history of Israel.

Revelation 7
In the vision of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel, the tribe of Manasseh is mentioned, indicating its continued significance in the eschatological vision of God's people.