Old Testament
Numbers 34:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 34:23, we see a specific mention of Hanniel, the son of Ephod, who is appointed as the leader for the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes descended from Joseph.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
From the descendants of Joseph: for the tribe of Manasseh — the leader Hanniel son of Ephod.
The prince of the children of Joseph, for the tribe of the children of Manasseh, Hanniel the son of Ephod.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 34:23, we see a specific mention of Hanniel, the son of Ephod, who is appointed as the leader for the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes descended from Joseph. This verse is part of a larger context where leaders are designated to oversee the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The mention of Hanniel highlights the importance of leadership and organization in fulfilling God's promises. It also emphasizes the significance of each tribe's heritage and the roles they play in the community. The descendants of Joseph, particularly through Manasseh, are recognized for their contributions and responsibilities in the Israelite community. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of strong leadership and the need for individuals to step up and take responsibility for their people and their inheritance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 34:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and support leaders in our communities who guide and serve others. It reminds us that everyone has a role to play in fulfilling collective goals. We should also reflect on our own responsibilities and how we can contribute positively to our families and communities, just as Hanniel did for his tribe.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
Who was Hanniel in Numbers 34:23?
Hanniel, the son of Ephod, was appointed as the leader for the tribe of Manasseh, one of the tribes descended from Joseph. His mention in this verse highlights the importance of leadership within the Israelite community as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.
What is the significance of the tribe of Manasseh?
The tribe of Manasseh is significant as it is one of the two tribes descended from Joseph, the other being Ephraim. Manasseh played a crucial role in the distribution of land among the Israelites and is recognized for its contributions to the community and its responsibilities in fulfilling God's promises.
How does Numbers 34:23 relate to leadership?
Numbers 34:23 emphasizes the importance of strong leadership within the Israelite community. By appointing Hanniel as a leader, the verse illustrates how effective leadership is essential for guiding people and ensuring that collective goals, such as entering the Promised Land, are achieved.
What can we learn from Hanniel's role in this verse?
Hanniel's role as a leader serves as a reminder of the importance of stepping up and taking responsibility for our communities. It encourages us to recognize and support leaders who guide us and to reflect on our own roles in contributing positively to our families and communities.

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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