Book of Numbers - Chapter 26 - Verse 22
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Numbers, it details the families of the tribe of Judah and the number of people that were counted among them. The verse mentions that there were a total of 76,500 individuals. This enumeration was crucial for organizational purposes as the Israelites continued their journey through the wilderness. Each tribe had specific duties and responsibilities as they traveled and camped according to the guidance of the Lord. Knowing the exact number of people in each tribe helped the Israelites to maintain order and structure within their community. This verse serves as a reminder of the meticulous record-keeping and organization that was necessary for the Israelites to function efficiently as they followed God's instructions during their time in the wilderness. By documenting the families of Judah and their numbers, the Israelites were able to ensure that everyone was accounted for and that each person had a role to play in the community.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "These are the families of Judah according to those that were numbered of them, threescore and sixteen thousand and five hundred." highlights the significance of numbers in the Bible. In this verse, the number given represents the total population of the tribe of Judah. The number sixty-six, five hundred symbolizes completeness and perfection. The use of specific numbers in the Bible is often seen as a way to convey deeper spiritual truths. Here, the enumeration of the families of Judah serves to emphasize the importance of each individual within the tribe, as well as the overall unity and cohesion of the community. Furthermore, word studies on the names of the families mentioned in the verse can provide additional insight into the historical and cultural context of the time, shedding light on the genealogy and lineage of the people of Judah. Overall, this verse exemplifies the richness and complexity of biblical interpretation, offering readers a deeper understanding of the text and its significance.