Numbers 26:42

These were the descendants of Dan by their clans: The Shuhamite clan from Shuham. These were the clans of Dan.

Study Bible

These were the descendants of Dan by their clans:
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. The division by clans reflects the organizational structure of the Israelite community, which was essential for maintaining order and distributing land. Dan's descendants were known for their strength and numbers, as seen in earlier censuses (Numbers 1:38-39). The tribe's territory was located in the northern part of Israel, which later became a center for idolatry (Judges 18:30-31).

The Shuhamite clan from Shuham:
Shuham, also referred to as Hushim in some translations (Genesis 46:23), was a descendant of Dan. The name Shuham means "pit-digger" or "depression," which may reflect the geographical features of the area they inhabited or a characteristic of the clan. The Shuhamites, like other clans, played a role in the military and social structure of Israel. The mention of Shuham highlights the continuity of the family line and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants (Genesis 15:5).

These were the clans of Dan:
The repetition emphasizes the unity and identity of the tribe of Dan. Despite being one of the smaller tribes in terms of territory, Dan was significant in Israel's history. The tribe's later relocation and establishment of a city named Dan (Judges 18:27-29) fulfilled Jacob's prophecy that Dan would provide justice for his people (Genesis 49:16). The tribe's struggles with idolatry and its eventual assimilation into the northern kingdom of Israel serve as a cautionary tale about faithfulness to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dan
Dan is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Jacob's fifth son, born to Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. The tribe of Dan is known for its later migration to the northern part of Israel.

2. Shuham
Shuham is a descendant of Dan, and his name is associated with the clan mentioned in this verse. The Shuhamites are one of the families within the tribe of Dan.

3. Census of Israel
Numbers 26 records the second census of the Israelites in the wilderness, taken as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This census is significant for organizing the tribes and distributing the land.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Heritage and Identity
Understanding our spiritual heritage helps us recognize our identity in Christ. Just as the tribes of Israel were identified by their clans, Christians are identified as children of God.

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The census in Numbers 26 shows God's faithfulness in preserving His people despite their wilderness journey. Similarly, God remains faithful to His promises in our lives.

The Role of Community in God's Plan
The organization of the tribes into clans highlights the importance of community and belonging. In the church, we are called to live in community, supporting and encouraging one another.

Lessons from the Tribe of Dan
The history of the tribe of Dan serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from God's path. It reminds us to remain faithful and obedient to God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the identity of the tribe of Dan, as seen in Numbers 26:42, reflect the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage today?

2. In what ways does the census in Numbers 26 demonstrate God's faithfulness, and how can we apply this understanding to our personal lives?

3. Considering the role of clans in the organization of Israel, how can we foster a sense of community and belonging within our church or small group?

4. Reflecting on the history of the tribe of Dan, what lessons can we learn about the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands?

5. How does the absence of the tribe of Dan in Revelation 7 challenge us to examine our spiritual walk and ensure we are aligned with God's purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 30
This chapter provides the background of Dan's birth, highlighting the family dynamics and God's providence in the formation of the tribes of Israel.

Judges 18
This passage describes the migration of the tribe of Dan to the north and their establishment in the city of Laish, later called Dan, illustrating the tribe's quest for a permanent inheritance.

Revelation 7
In the listing of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel, the tribe of Dan is notably absent, prompting discussions on the spiritual implications and lessons from their history.