Old Testament
Numbers 11:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we learn about two men named Eldad and Medad who were chosen as elders but did not go to the Tent of Meeting where the Spirit of God was being poured out.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Two men had stayed behind in the camp — one named Eldad and the other Medad. They were on the list of chosen elders but hadn't gone out to the Tent. Yet the Spirit rested on them too, and they prophesied right there in the camp.
But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about two men named Eldad and Medad who were chosen as elders but did not go to the Tent of Meeting where the Spirit of God was being poured out. Despite their absence, the Spirit still came upon them, and they began to prophesy in the camp. This shows that God's Spirit is not limited to specific locations or circumstances. It emphasizes that God's calling and empowerment can reach individuals wherever they are, even outside the expected settings. Eldad and Medad's experience illustrates that God's work can happen in unexpected ways and places, highlighting the inclusivity of God's Spirit. Their prophesying in the camp also serves as a reminder that spiritual gifts are not confined to a select few but can be given to anyone chosen by God, regardless of their physical location or participation in traditional religious practices.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 11:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God's Spirit can work through anyone, anywhere. We should not limit our understanding of where and how God can use us. Embrace opportunities to serve and share God's message, even in unexpected situations or locations.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 11:26 mean?
Numbers 11:26 describes how two men, Eldad and Medad, who were chosen as elders, received the Spirit of God and prophesied in the camp despite not being present at the Tent of Meeting. This illustrates that God's Spirit can empower individuals regardless of their location.
Who are Eldad and Medad in Numbers 11:26?
Eldad and Medad are two chosen elders mentioned in Numbers 11:26 who remained in the camp while others went to the Tent of Meeting. They experienced the Spirit of God and prophesied, showing that God's calling can reach anyone.
What themes are present in Numbers 11:26?
Key themes in Numbers 11:26 include the inclusivity of God's Spirit, the unexpected empowerment of individuals, the distribution of spiritual gifts, and the importance of leadership and obedience to God's calling.

The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
Unlock the full Numbers summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Numbers — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 36 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Numbers summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.