Old Testament

Numbers 31:40

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, we learn about the distribution of captives taken in battle.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

The soldiers' share of captive people was 16,000, and the LORD's tribute from these was 32 persons.

KJVKing James Version

And the persons were sixteen thousand; of which the LORD’s tribute was thirty and two persons.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we learn about the distribution of captives taken in battle. The total number of captives was 16,000, and from this number, a portion was set aside as a tribute to the Lord. Specifically, 32 individuals were designated as the Lord's share. This practice reflects the ancient Israelite custom of dedicating a portion of spoils from warfare to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and involvement in their victories. The tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to God what is rightfully His, even in the context of war and conflict. It emphasizes the principle that all victories and possessions ultimately belong to God, and His people are called to honor Him with their gains. This verse highlights the balance between human effort in battle and divine providence, illustrating that success is not solely due to human strength but also to God's guidance and favor.

How to apply Numbers 31:40 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize God's role in our successes and to honor Him with our resources. Whether in our personal victories or achievements, we should remember to give back to God, reflecting gratitude and acknowledging His provision in our lives. This practice fosters a spirit of generosity and faithfulness.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 31:40 mean?

Numbers 31:40 describes the distribution of captives taken in battle, noting that 16,000 captives were taken, with 32 individuals set aside as a tribute to the Lord. This reflects the practice of dedicating a portion of war spoils to God, acknowledging His role in their victories.

What is the significance of the Lord's tribute in Numbers 31:40?

The Lord's tribute of 32 persons in Numbers 31:40 signifies the ancient Israelite custom of giving back to God a portion of the spoils from warfare. It highlights the belief that all victories and possessions ultimately belong to God, and His people are called to honor Him with their gains.

How does Numbers 31:40 relate to giving back to God?

Numbers 31:40 illustrates the principle of giving back to God by dedicating a portion of war spoils as a tribute. This practice serves as a reminder for believers to acknowledge God's provision and to express gratitude through their resources.

What themes are present in Numbers 31:40?

Key themes in Numbers 31:40 include divine tribute, the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, the relationship between war and spoils, and the importance of faithfulness in giving. These themes reflect the broader understanding of God's role in the lives of His people.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

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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