Numbers 2:13

and his division numbers 59,300.

Study Bible

and his division
The term "division" refers to a military unit or group within the Israelite camp. In the context of Numbers, the Israelites were organized into a structured camp with each tribe having a specific role and position. This organization reflects the order and discipline necessary for a large group of people traveling through the wilderness. The divisions were not only for military purposes but also for maintaining order during their journey. This structure can be seen as a precursor to the later organization of Israel under kings like David and Solomon.

numbers 59,300
The specific number of 59,300 refers to the men of military age from the tribe of Naphtali. This census was taken to prepare the Israelites for their journey and potential conflicts in the Promised Land. The large number indicates the strength and size of the tribe, which was significant for their role in the community. The census in Numbers is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). This also foreshadows the growth and expansion of Israel as a nation. The precision of the number underscores the importance of each individual in God's plan, reflecting the biblical theme that God knows and values each person.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Naphtali
This verse refers to the tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant.

2. Census of Israel
The context of this verse is the census taken by Moses and Aaron as instructed by God, to organize the Israelites for their journey and encampment around the Tabernacle.

3. Wilderness of Sinai
The setting for this event is the wilderness of Sinai, where the Israelites camped after their exodus from Egypt and received the Law from God.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Organization
The census and arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle highlight God's desire for order and structure in the community of believers. This reflects the importance of organization in our spiritual lives and church communities.

Significance of Each Tribe
Every tribe, including Naphtali, had a specific role and place in the camp. This teaches us that each believer has a unique role in the body of Christ, and all are essential to the functioning of the church.

Faithfulness in Numbers
The specific number of 59,300 for the tribe of Naphtali shows God's attention to detail and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham about the multiplication of his descendants. It encourages us to trust in God's promises and His attention to the details of our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the organization of the Israelite camp around the Tabernacle teach us about the importance of God's presence in our lives today?

2. How can we apply the concept of each tribe having a specific role to our understanding of spiritual gifts and roles within the church?

3. In what ways does the account of Naphtali's involvement in the battle against Sisera inspire us to respond to God's call in our own lives?

4. How does the census in Numbers 2 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in times of doubt?

5. Considering the role of the tribe of Naphtali in biblical history, how can we ensure that our own legacy is one of faithfulness and obedience to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30:7-8
This passage describes the birth of Naphtali, providing background on the tribe's patriarch and the meaning of his name, which is associated with struggle and wrestling.

Revelation 7:6
This verse lists the tribe of Naphtali among the sealed tribes of Israel, indicating its continued significance in God's plan.

Judges 4-5
The tribe of Naphtali plays a crucial role in the victory over Sisera, demonstrating their valor and faithfulness to God's call.