Old Testament
Numbers 1:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The tribe of Zebulun totaled 57,400.
Compare translations
Those that were numbered of them, even of the tribe of Zebulun, were fifty and seven thousand and four hundred.
What Numbers 1:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 1:31, we learn about the tribe of Zebulun, which had a total population of 57,400 men who were able to serve in the army. This census was part of a larger effort to organize the Israelite community as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The number reflects not only the size of the tribe but also their readiness to contribute to the defense and support of the nation. Each tribe had its own unique role and responsibilities, and Zebulun's significant number indicates their importance in the collective strength of Israel. This verse highlights the importance of community and the contributions of each group within a larger society, emphasizing that every individual plays a part in the overall mission and purpose of the community.
How to apply Numbers 1:31 to your life
Understanding the significance of each tribe's contribution can inspire us to recognize our own roles within our communities. Just as Zebulun was counted and valued, we too should appreciate our unique gifts and how they can support and strengthen those around us. Everyone has a part to play.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 1:31
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 1:31
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 1:31 say about the tribe of Zebulun?
Numbers 1:31 states that the tribe of Zebulun had a total of 57,400 men who were counted for military service. This census was part of a larger organization of the Israelite community as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, highlighting the tribe's readiness to contribute to the nation's defense.
Why was the census taken in Numbers 1:31?
The census in Numbers 1:31 was conducted to organize the Israelite tribes for their journey to the Promised Land. It aimed to assess the number of men eligible for military service, ensuring that each tribe's strength and contributions were recognized and utilized effectively in the collective effort of the nation.
What is the significance of Zebulun's number in the context of Israel?
Zebulun's population of 57,400 signifies their importance within the Israelite community. This number reflects not only their military capability but also their role in supporting the nation. Each tribe had unique responsibilities, and Zebulun's strength contributed to the overall defense and unity of Israel as they faced challenges ahead.
How can we apply the lessons from Numbers 1:31 to our lives today?
The lesson from Numbers 1:31 encourages us to recognize and value our individual contributions within our communities. Just as Zebulun was counted and had a role in the larger mission, we too should appreciate our unique gifts and how they can support and strengthen those around us, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.