Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia A census, in biblical terms, refers to the systematic counting of the population, often for purposes such as taxation, military conscription, or organization of the community. The concept of a census is mentioned several times throughout the Bible, with varying implications and outcomes.Old Testament Instances 1. The Census in the Wilderness: The Book of Numbers derives its name from the censuses recorded within it. God commanded Moses to take a census of the Israelite community in the wilderness of Sinai. Numbers 1:2-3 states, "Take a census of the whole congregation of Israel by their clans and families, listing every man by name, one by one. You and Aaron are to number those who are twenty years of age or older by their divisions—everyone who can serve in Israel’s army." This census was primarily for military organization and to establish the number of men eligible for warfare. 2. The Census of David: One of the more controversial censuses in the Bible is the one conducted by King David, as recorded in 2 Samuel 24 and 1 Chronicles 21. David's decision to count the fighting men of Israel was met with divine displeasure. 2 Samuel 24:10 records David's remorse: "After David had numbered the troops, his conscience was stricken, and he said to the LORD, 'I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have acted very foolishly.'" This census led to a severe plague as a consequence of David's actions, highlighting the importance of relying on God's provision rather than human strength. New Testament Reference 1. The Census of Quirinius: The New Testament mentions a census in the context of the birth of Jesus Christ. Luke 2:1-3 states, "Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census to take place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register." This census is significant as it led Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah's birthplace (Micah 5:2). Theological Implications Censuses in the Bible often carry theological weight, reflecting themes of divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and the tension between reliance on God versus human institutions. The censuses commanded by God, such as those in the Book of Numbers, underscore the importance of order and preparation within the community of faith. Conversely, censuses undertaken without divine sanction, like David's, serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of pride and self-reliance. Cultural and Historical Context In the ancient Near East, censuses were common for administrative purposes, including taxation and military conscription. The biblical accounts reflect these practices but also infuse them with spiritual significance, demonstrating how God's people are to navigate their identity and responsibilities in the world. Conclusion The biblical treatment of censuses reveals a complex interplay between divine command and human initiative. While censuses can serve practical purposes, they also remind believers of the need to trust in God's provision and guidance above all else. Smith's Bible Dictionary Census[TAXING] Easton's Bible Dictionary There are five instances of a census of the Jewish people having been taken. (1.) In the fourth month after the Exodus, when the people were encamped at Sinai. The number of men from twenty years old and upward was then 603,550 (Exodus 38:26). (2.) Another census was made just before the entrance into Canaan, when the number was found to be 601,730, showing thus a small decrease (Numbers 26:51). (3.) The next census was in the time of David, when the number, exclusive of the tribes of Levi and Benjamin, was found to be 1,300,000 (2 Samuel 24:9; 1 Chronicles 21:5). (4.) Solomon made a census of the foreigners in the land, and found 153,600 able-bodied workmen (2 Chronicles 2:17, 18). (5.) After the return from Exile the whole congregation of Israel was numbered, and found to amount to 42,360 (Ezra 2:64). A census was made by the Roman government in the time of our Lord (Luke 2:1). (see TAXING.) Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A numbering of the people in a country, and valuation of their estate, for the purpose of imposing taxes, etc.; -- usually made once in five years.2. (n.) An official registration of the number of the people, the value of their estates, and other general statistics of a country. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CENSUSsen'-sus. Greek 583. apographo -- to copy, enroll ... raf'-o) Short Definition: I enroll, inscribe in a register Definition: I enroll, inscribe in a register; mid: I give my name for registration (or census-taking ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/583.htm - 6k 582. apographe -- a register, enrollment 2778. kensos -- to muzzle Strong's Hebrew 5610. sephar -- enumeration, census... 5609, 5610. sephar. 5611 . enumeration, census. Transliteration: sephar Phonetic Spelling: (sef-awr') Short Definition: census. ... /hebrew/5610.htm - 6k 4662. miphqad -- a muster, appointment, appointed place 1538. gulgoleth -- a skull, head, poll (of persons) 4371. mekes -- computation, proportion to be paid, tax 7218. rosh -- head 6485. paqad -- to attend to, visit, muster, appoint Library The Census of Israel The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family The Taxing. --Birth of Christ at Bethlehem. The Birth of Jesus. The Time of his Appearance among Men. Luke's Account of the Enrollment The Chronology Enrollment by Households in Egypt Jesus is Born in Bethlehem Infancy and Youth of Jesus --His First Impressions. Thesaurus Census (24 Occurrences)... Easton's Bible Dictionary There are five instances of a census of the Jewish people having been taken. (1.) In the fourth month ... /c/census.htm - 15k Numbering (35 Occurrences) Chronology Ephraim (168 Occurrences) Clans (120 Occurrences) Zebulun (46 Occurrences) Gershon (23 Occurrences) Gamaliel (7 Occurrences) Inscribed (20 Occurrences) Manasseh (140 Occurrences) Resources Why was God so angry at David for taking the census? | GotQuestions.orgDoes Luke's claim that Jesus was born in Bethlehem at the time of Quirinius' census match the historical record? | GotQuestions.org Why did God order a census in the book of Numbers? | GotQuestions.org Census: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Census (24 Occurrences)Luke 2:1 Luke 2:2 Luke 2:3 Luke 2:5 Acts 5:37 Exodus 30:12 Exodus 30:14 Exodus 38:25 Numbers 1:2 Numbers 1:49 Numbers 4:2 Numbers 4:22 Numbers 14:29 Numbers 26:2 Numbers 26:4 Numbers 31:49 2 Samuel 24:1 2 Kings 12:4 1 Chronicles 21:1 1 Chronicles 21:5 1 Chronicles 23:3 1 Chronicles 23:24 2 Chronicles 2:17 2 Chronicles 25:5 Subtopics Census of the Roman Empire, by Caesar Census: A Poll Tax to be Levied at Each Census: The Numbering of Israel by David Census: The Numbering of Israel by Moses Related Terms |
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