Old Testament
Numbers 26:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
from Asriel, the Asrielite clan; from Shechem, the Shechemite clan;
Compare translations
And of Asriel, the family of the Asrielites: and of Shechem, the family of the Shechemites:
What Numbers 26:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 26:31, the text lists the descendants of Jacob and their clans, specifically mentioning the Asrielites and Shechemites. This verse is part of a larger census that Moses conducted to organize the Israelite tribes before they entered the Promised Land. The mention of these clans highlights the importance of lineage and tribal identity in Israelite society. Each clan had its own unique characteristics and responsibilities, contributing to the overall structure of the community. Understanding these clans helps us appreciate the diversity within the Israelite nation and the significance of each tribe's role in their collective journey. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage and belonging, as well as the need for organization and structure in any community, especially one as large as the Israelites. It emphasizes that every family and clan has a part to play in the larger narrative of their people, reinforcing the idea that individual contributions matter in the context of a community's mission.
How to apply Numbers 26:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and appreciate our own heritage and the roles our families play in our lives. Just as the Israelites were organized by clans, we can find strength in our communities and understand how our backgrounds shape our identities and responsibilities today.
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 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
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 PlansAsk AI about Numbers 26:31
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 26:31
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 26:31 mean?
Numbers 26:31 identifies the Asrielite and Shechemite clans as part of the census of the Israelite tribes. This verse highlights the significance of tribal lineage and organization among the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
What is the significance of the Asrielites and Shechemites in Numbers 26:31?
The Asrielites and Shechemites represent specific clans within the Israelite community, emphasizing the importance of family and tribal identity. Their mention in the census illustrates how each clan contributed to the overall structure and diversity of the Israelite nation.
How does Numbers 26:31 relate to community organization?
Numbers 26:31 reflects the need for organization within the Israelite community by categorizing clans. This structure allowed for better management of responsibilities and roles, which is essential for any large group.
What themes are present in Numbers 26:31?
Key themes in Numbers 26:31 include tribal identity, lineage, community organization, and the importance of heritage. These themes highlight how individual clans contribute to the collective identity and mission of the Israelite people.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.