Old Testament
Numbers 26:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 26:31, the text lists the descendants of Jacob and their clans, specifically mentioning the Asrielites and Shechemites.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
from Asriel, the Asrielite clan; from Shechem, the Shechemite clan;
And of Asriel, the family of the Asrielites: and of Shechem, the family of the Shechemites:
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
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.
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