Old Testament

Numbers 26:15

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The descendants of Gad by their clans were: from Zephon, the Zephonite clan; from Haggi, the Haggite clan; from Shuni, the Shunite clan;

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

The children of Gad after their families: of Zephon, the family of the Zephonites: of Haggi, the family of the Haggites: of Shuni, the family of the Shunites:

What Numbers 26:15 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 26:15, the text lists the descendants of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This verse specifically names three clans within Gad: the Zephonites, the Haggites, and the Shunites. Each clan is identified by its founder, emphasizing the importance of lineage and family structure in ancient Israelite society. The organization of the tribes and their clans reflects the social order and the way the Israelites were to settle in the Promised Land. This genealogical record serves not only to establish identity but also to fulfill God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding their descendants. Understanding these clans helps us appreciate the diversity and complexity of the Israelite community, as well as the significance of each tribe's role in the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land.

How to apply Numbers 26:15 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of family and heritage in our lives. Just as the Israelites were organized by clans, we can reflect on our own family histories and the values they instill in us. Recognizing our roots can strengthen our sense of belonging and purpose.

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.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 26:15

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 26:15

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 26:15 mean?

Numbers 26:15 lists the clans of the tribe of Gad, specifically naming the Zephonites, Haggites, and Shunites. This verse highlights the importance of lineage and family structure among the Israelites as they prepare to settle in the Promised Land.

What is the significance of the clans mentioned in Numbers 26:15?

The clans in Numbers 26:15 represent the descendants of Gad and illustrate the organization of the Israelite tribes. This structure emphasizes community identity and the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Who are the Zephonites, Haggites, and Shunites in Numbers 26:15?

The Zephonites, Haggites, and Shunites are clans that descended from the tribe of Gad, as mentioned in Numbers 26:15. Each clan is named after its founder, reflecting the familial ties and heritage of the Israelite community.

How does Numbers 26:15 relate to the overall narrative of the Israelites?

Numbers 26:15 contributes to the overall narrative by detailing the genealogical records of the tribes, which is essential for understanding the social structure of the Israelites as they journey to the Promised Land and fulfill God's covenant.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.