Old Testament
Numbers 31:4
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, God commands Moses to gather an army from each of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically asking for 1,000 soldiers from each tribe.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Send 1,000 soldiers from each tribe — every tribe in Israel must contribute."
Of every tribe a thousand, throughout all the tribes of Israel, shall ye send to the war.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God commands Moses to gather an army from each of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically asking for 1,000 soldiers from each tribe. This directive emphasizes the collective responsibility of the Israelites to defend their nation and engage in battle against their enemies. The instruction reflects the importance of unity and cooperation among the tribes, as they are all part of the same covenant community. By sending a specified number of soldiers from each tribe, it ensures that every tribe contributes to the effort, reinforcing the idea that they are stronger together. This military action is part of a larger narrative where Israel is called to confront and defeat the Midianites, who had led them into sin. The verse highlights themes of obedience, communal effort, and the seriousness of spiritual warfare, as the Israelites are not just fighting for land but also for their faith and identity as God's chosen people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 31:4 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of working together towards a common goal. Just as the tribes of Israel were called to contribute to the battle, we too should support one another in our communities and endeavors. Collective efforts can lead to greater strength and success.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 31:4 mean?
Numbers 31:4 means that God instructed Moses to gather 1,000 soldiers from each of the twelve tribes of Israel for battle. This command highlights the importance of unity and collective responsibility among the Israelites as they prepare to confront their enemies.
What is the significance of sending 1,000 soldiers from each tribe in Numbers 31:4?
Sending 1,000 soldiers from each tribe signifies the collective effort required from all tribes of Israel to defend their nation. It emphasizes that every tribe has a role in the community's defense and reinforces their unity as God's chosen people.
How does Numbers 31:4 relate to collective responsibility?
Numbers 31:4 illustrates collective responsibility by requiring each tribe to contribute soldiers for the battle. This shows that the strength of the community lies in the participation and cooperation of all its members.
What themes are present in Numbers 31:4?
The themes present in Numbers 31:4 include unity, obedience, collective responsibility, spiritual warfare, and the idea of a covenant community working together for a common purpose.
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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