Old Testament
Numbers 32:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Our children, our wives, our flocks, and all our livestock will remain here in the cities of Gilead.
Compare translations
Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our cattle, shall be there in the cities of Gilead:
What Numbers 32:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 32:26, the tribes of Reuben and Gad express their intention to settle in the land of Gilead, leaving their families and livestock behind. This verse highlights their commitment to protect and provide for their loved ones while they fulfill their responsibilities in battle. The mention of 'children, wives, flocks, and livestock' emphasizes the importance of family and community in their culture. It shows that while they are willing to fight for the promised land, they also prioritize the safety and well-being of those who cannot fight. This decision reflects a balance between duty and care, illustrating the complexities of leadership and the sacrifices made for the greater good. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the responsibilities that come with leadership, as well as the need to ensure the safety of loved ones while pursuing one's goals.
How to apply Numbers 32:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to balance our commitments to work and family. As we pursue our goals, we must also ensure the safety and well-being of our loved ones. It reminds us to prioritize family and community while fulfilling our responsibilities.
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 Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 32:26
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 32:26
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 32:26 mean?
Numbers 32:26 describes the tribes of Reuben and Gad deciding to settle in Gilead while leaving their families and livestock behind. This reflects their commitment to protect their loved ones while also fulfilling their duty to fight for the promised land.
What is the significance of 'children, wives, flocks, and livestock' in Numbers 32:26?
The mention of 'children, wives, flocks, and livestock' in Numbers 32:26 emphasizes the importance of family and community. It shows that while the men are ready to engage in battle, they prioritize the safety and well-being of those who cannot fight.
How does Numbers 32:26 relate to leadership?
Numbers 32:26 illustrates the complexities of leadership by showing the balance between duty and care. The leaders prioritize the safety of their families while also preparing to fight for their people, reflecting the sacrifices leaders must make.
What lessons can we learn from Numbers 32:26?
From Numbers 32:26, we learn the importance of balancing commitments to work and family. It encourages us to prioritize the safety and well-being of our loved ones while pursuing our goals and responsibilities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.