Old Testament
Numbers 31:38
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The soldiers' share of cattle was 36,000, and the LORD's tribute from these was 72.
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And the beeves were thirty and six thousand; of which the LORD’s tribute was threescore and twelve.
What Numbers 31:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the distribution of cattle taken as spoils of war by the Israelite soldiers. They captured a total of 36,000 cattle, which were divided among the soldiers. However, a portion of this bounty was set aside as a tribute to the Lord, amounting to 72 cattle. This practice highlights the importance of acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty, even in the midst of victory. The tribute serves as a reminder that all resources ultimately belong to God, and it is essential to honor Him with a portion of what we receive. This principle of giving back to God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing gratitude and stewardship. The soldiers' willingness to give a share to the Lord reflects their recognition of His role in their success and their commitment to maintaining a relationship with Him through acts of worship and obedience.
How to apply Numbers 31:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and honor God in our successes and blessings. Just as the soldiers set aside a portion for the Lord, we should consider how we can give back to God from what we receive, whether through time, resources, or service to others.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Keep studying Numbers 31:38
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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 31:38 mean?
Numbers 31:38 describes the distribution of cattle taken as spoils of war by the Israelite soldiers, highlighting that they captured 36,000 cattle and set aside 72 as a tribute to the Lord. This illustrates the importance of recognizing God's provision even in times of victory.
What is the significance of the tribute in Numbers 31:38?
The tribute of 72 cattle in Numbers 31:38 signifies the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. It serves as a reminder that all resources ultimately belong to God and emphasizes the practice of giving back to Him from our blessings.
What does the number 72 represent in Numbers 31:38?
In Numbers 31:38, the number 72 represents the portion of the cattle that was set aside as a tribute to the Lord. This act reflects the soldiers' gratitude and commitment to honor God with a share of their spoils.
How does Numbers 31:38 relate to stewardship?
Numbers 31:38 relates to stewardship by illustrating the principle of giving back to God from what we receive. The soldiers' decision to set aside a portion of their spoils emphasizes the importance of managing resources with gratitude and responsibility.
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