Verse:
Numbers 1:25 · "those registered to the tribe of Gad numbered 45,650."

Context and Background:
The Book of Numbers, the fourth book of the Pentateuch, is traditionally attributed to Moses. It derives its name from the censuses of the Israelites recorded within its pages. Numbers 1:25 is part of the initial census commanded by God in the wilderness of Sinai, shortly after the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. This census was conducted to organize the Israelites for their journey to the Promised Land and to prepare them for potential military engagements.

Tribe of Gad:
The tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, was named after Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Gad's descendants were known for their valor and strength, traits that are reflected in the substantial number of men counted in this census. The tribe settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in a region known for its fertile land, which was well-suited for their pastoral lifestyle.

Significance of the Census:
The census in Numbers 1 serves several purposes. Primarily, it was a means of organizing the Israelites into a structured community, ready for both worship and warfare. The enumeration of the tribes, including Gad, highlights the importance of order and preparation in the life of the covenant community. Each tribe's contribution to the collective strength of Israel was crucial for their survival and success in the wilderness and beyond.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the census underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The growth of the Israelite population, as evidenced by the numbers recorded, is a testament to God's blessing and providence. Furthermore, the specific mention of each tribe, including Gad, emphasizes the value of each individual within the community of God's people. It reflects the biblical principle that every person has a role and purpose within the divine plan.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, Numbers 1:25 serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the role each person plays within the body of Christ. Just as the tribe of Gad was counted and prepared for their journey, Christians are called to be ready and equipped for their spiritual journey and mission. The passage encourages believers to recognize their unique contributions to the faith community and to trust in God's provision and guidance.

In summary, Numbers 1:25, while a brief verse, is rich with historical, theological, and practical significance. It reflects the order and purpose inherent in God's plans and serves as an enduring reminder of the collective strength found in unity and obedience to God's commands.45650 (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 1:25
those who were numbered of them, of the tribe of Gad, were forty-five thousand six hundred fifty.
(See NAS NIV)

Numbers 2:15
His division, and those who were numbered of them, were forty-five thousand six hundred fifty.
(See NAS NIV)

45650 (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance 45650 (2 Occurrences). Numbers 1:25 those who were numbered
of them, of the tribe of Gad, were forty-five thousand six hundred fifty. ...
/num/45650.htm - 6k

45400 (1 Occurrence)

/num/45400.htm - 6k

46500 (2 Occurrences)

/num/46500.htm - 6k

Gad (78 Occurrences)
... At the beginning of the desert march Gad numbered 45,650 "from twenty years old
and upward, all that were able to go forth to war" (Numbers 1:24). ...
/g/gad.htm - 49k

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