Numbers 1

Numbers 1

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The LordI spokeII to MosesIII

Notes on verse 1a

I “Lord” = YHVH. From havah (to be, become) or hayah (to come to pass, become, be). This is the name of the God of Israel, the self-existent and eternal one, the tetragrammaton. This pronunciation has been lost to time so “Lord” is generally used in its place.
II “spoke” = dabar. This is generally to speak, answer, declare, or command. It might mean to arrange and so to speak in a figurative sense as arranging words.
III “Moses” = Mosheh. From mashah (to pull out in a literal or figurative sense, to draw out) OR from Egyptian mes or mesu (child, son i.e. child of…). This is Moses – the one drawn out from the water, which is to say, rescued. If derived from the Egyptian, his name would share a root with Rameses and Thutmose.

in the wildernessIV of Sinai,V in the tentVI of meeting,VII

Notes on verse 1b

IV “wilderness” = midbar. Related to “spoke” in v1. From dabar (see note II above). This is mouth or speech. It can also be desert or wilderness. Additionally, it can be used for a pasture to which one drives cattle.
V “Sinai” = Sinay. Probably from the same as Sin (Sin, a city meaning “clay” or “bush);{perhaps from asam (to gather, store) OR from seneh (thorn bush) OR related to Aramaic siyn (a god called Sin) OR perhaps Hebrew siyn (related to mud or clay)}. This is Sinai – a place whose name may mean “bush of the Lord” or “muddy.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Sinai.html
VI “tent” = ohel. Perhaps from ahal (to shine, be clear). This is a tent, covering, home, or side pillar.
VII “meeting” = moed. From yaad (to appoint, assemble or gather selves, agree). This is a meeting, assembly, fixed time. It can be used for a festival or feast. It can also refer to a meeting place.

on the firstVIII day of the secondIX month,X in the second yearXI after they had come outXII of the landXIII of Egypt,XIV saying, 

Notes on verse 1c

VIII “first” = echad. Perhaps from achad (to unify, continue on a path; figuratively, to gather one’s thoughts). This is the number one, first, united. It can also be alone, altogether, a certain, a few.
IX “second” = sheni. From shanah (to fold, repeat, double, alter, or disguise). This is double, again, another, second.
X “month” = chodesh. From chadash (to renew, repair). This refers to a new moon. It can also mean monthly.
XI “year” = shanah. From shana (to change, alter). This is a year, age, old. It can also mean yearly.
XII “come out” = yatsa. This is to go or come out, bring forth, appear. It is to go out in a literal or figurative sense.
XIII “land” = erets. Root may mean to be firm. This is earth, ground, field land, or country.
XIV “Egypt” = Mitsrayim. Perhaps from matsor (besieged or fortified place, bulwark, entrenchment; something hemmed in; a siege or distress or fastness); from tsur (to confine, besiege, to cramp). This is Egypt.

“TakeXV a censusXVI of the wholeXVII congregationXVIII

Notes on verse 2a

XV “take” = nasa. This is to lift in a broad sense, literally and figuratively. So it could be to carry, take, or arise. It could also be bring forth, advance, accept.
XVI “census” = rosh. This may come a word that means to shake. It is the head, captain, or chief. It can also be excellent or the forefront. It can be first in position or in statue or in time (i.e. the beginning).
XVII “whole” = kol. From kalal (to complete). This is all or every.
XVIII “congregation” = edah. Related to “meeting” in v1. From yaad (see note VII above) OR from ed (witness, testimony, recorder); from ud (to admonish, repeat, duplicate, testify, restore, record, relieve). This is a congregation, assembly, or company. It could be a family, crowd, or fixture.

of Israelites,XIX in their clans,XX by ancestralXXI houses,XXII

Notes on verse 2b

XIX “Israelites” = ben + Yisrael. Literally, “children of Israel.” Ben is from banah (to build or obtain children). This is son, age, child. It is son in a literal or figurative sense. Yisrael is from sarah (to persist, exert oneself, contend, persevere, wrestle, prevail) + el (God or god). This is Israel, meaning God strives or one who strives with God; new name for Jacob and for his offspring. This refers to the people and to the land.
XX “clans” = mishpachah. From the same as shiphcah (maid, maidservant); root means to spread out. This is one’s circle of relatives – clan, family, kindred.
XXI “ancestral” = ab. This is father, chief, or ancestor. It is father in a literal or figurative sense.
XXII “houses” = bayit. Related to “Israelites” in v2. Probably from banah (see note XIX above). This is house, court, family, palace, temple.

according to the numberXXIII of names,XXIV everyXXV maleXXVI individually,XXVII 

Notes on verse 2c

XXIII “number” = mispar. From the same as sepher (writing itself or something that is written like a document, book, letter, evidence, bill, scroll, or register); from saphar (to tally or record something; to enumerate, recount, number, celebrate, or declare). This is a number, whether definite or symbolic – could be innumerable, few, abundance. It can also be a tally or account – or a narration.
XXIV “names” = shem. May be from sum (to put, place, set). This is name, fame, renown. A name was thought to indicate something essential about a person – something about their individuality. So, this word can also mean honor, authority, or character.
XXV “every” = kol. Same as “whole” in v2. See note XVII above.
XXVI “male” = zakar. From zakar (to remember, to mark something so that it can be recalled, to be mindful of, to mention). This is male. Properly, perhaps, it means one who is remembered, which is to say a male.
XXVII “individually” = gulgoleth. 12x in OT. From galal (to roll in a literal or figurative sense, roll away, roll down, wallow, remove, trust). This is skull or head. It is a census or poll that counts people by head. It is also where “Golgotha” takes its name from.

from twentyXXVIII years oldXXIX and up,XXX everyoneXXXI in IsraelXXXII

Notes on verse 3a

XXVIII “twenty” = esrim. From the same as eser (ten, tenth). This is twenty or twentieth.
XXIX “old” = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note XIX above.
XXX “up” = maal. From alah (to go up, ascend, be high, be a priority; to arise in a literal or figurative sense). This is the upper part, forward, high above, upwards, greater, heaven, or exceedingly.
XXXI “everyone” = kol. Same as “whole” in v2. See note XVII above.
XXXII “Israel” = Yisrael. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note XIX above.

able to goXXXIII to war.XXXIV You and AaronXXXV shall enrollXXXVI them, companyXXXVII by company. 

Notes on verse 3b

XXXIII “go” = yatsa. Same as “come out” in v1. See note XII above.
XXXIV “war” = tsaba. From tsaba (to wage war, serve, assemble, fight, perform, muster, wait on). This is a large group of persons (used figuratively for a group of things). It implies a campaign literally as with army, war, warfare, battle, company, soldiers. Can also be used figuratively for hardship or for worship.
XXXV “Aaron” = Aharon. Derivation uncertain. May mean “bearer of martyrs” OR be related to Ancient Egyptian ꜥḥꜣ rw (warrior lion) OR elevated, exalted, high mountain. This is Aaron. See https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Aaron
XXXVI “enroll” = paqad. This is to attend to or visit – can be used for a friendly or violent encounter. So, it can be to oversee, care for, avenge, or charge.
XXXVII “company” = tsaba. Same as “war” in v3. See note XXXIV above.

A manXXXVIII from eachXXXIX tribeXL shall beXLI with you, each man the headXLII of his ancestral house. 

Notes on verse 4

XXXVIII “man” = ish. Perhaps from enosh (human, humankind, mortal); from anash (to be weak, sick, or frail). This is man, husband, another, or humankind.
XXXIX “each” = ish. Same as “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
XL “tribe” = matteh. From natah (to stretch or spread out, extend, bend). This is a staff, rod, branch, or tribe. It could be a rod for discipline or correction. It could be a scepter to indicate authority, a throwing lance, or a walking staff. Figuratively, it could also be something that supports life (like bread).
XLI “be” = hayah. Related to “Lord” in v1. See note I above.
XLII “head” = rosh. Same as “census” in v2. See note XVI above.

These are the names of the menXLIII who shall assistXLIV you:

From Reuben,XLV ElizurXLVI sonXLVII of Shedeur.XLVIII

Notes on verse 5

XLIII “men” = ish. Same as “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
XLIV “assist” = amad. This is to stand up in a literal or figurative sense. So it can be establish, continue, endure, take a stand, act, be a servant, stand still, remain, stand against an enemy.
XLV “Reuben” = Reuben. Related to “Israelites” and “houses” in v2. From raah (to see, show, stare, think, view; to see in a literal or figurative sense) + ben (see note XIX above). This is Reuben, meaning “behold a son.”
XLVI “Elizur” = Elitsur. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Egypt” in v1. 5x in OT. From El (see note XIX above) + tsur (rock, stone, cliff, boulder, rocky; a refuge, a way to refer to God); {from tsur (see note XIV above)}. This is Elizur, meaning “God of the rock.”
XLVII “son” = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note XIX above.
XLVIII “Shedeur” = Shedeur. 5x in OT. From the same as shad (breast); {probably from shud (waste, devastate); related to shadad (to ruin, assault, devastate, oppress, destroy completely; properly, it is being burly; figuratively it is something that is powerful)} OR from the same as sadeh (literally field, ground, soil, or land; can be wild like a wild animal); {perhaps from the same as Shaddai (perhaps meaning almighty, “my destroyer,” “my protective spirit,” “my rainmaker,” “self-sufficient, “who is abundantly,” or “breasted one” – as the one who abundantly provides or grants fertility/abundance to humans); perhaps from shadad (see above) or shed (protective spirit) or shadah (to moisten)}. This is Shedeur, meaning “spreader of light” or “Shaddai is flame” or  “Shaddai is Light” or “field of light” or “destroyer of light” or “breast of fire” or “shedder of fire” or “casting forth fire” or “fire demon.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Shedeur.html & https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Shaddai.html#.Xxi6Ep5KhPY

From Simeon,XLIX ShelumielL son of Zurishaddai.LI

Notes on verse 6

XLIX “Simeon” = Shimon. From shama (to hear, often implying attention and obedience). This is Simeon, Symeon, or Simon. It is a personal name as well as the tribe Simeon. It means “he who hears.”
L “Shelumiel” = Shelumiel. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5. 5x in OT. From shalom (completeness, soundness, welfare, favor, friend, good health; to be safe and figuratively well, happy, at peace, friendly; abstractly, includes the ideas of welfare and prosperity – not in excessive wealth, but in having enough); {from shalam (to be complete or sound; to have safety mentally, physically, or extending to one’s estate; so, if these things are safe and complete, the implication is that one would be friendly; and, if being friendly, one would make amends and that friendship would be reciprocated)} + el (see note XIX above). This is Shelumiel, meaning “peace of God.”
LI “Zurishaddai” = Tsurishaddai. Related to “Egypt” in v1 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shedeur” in v5. 5x in OT. From tsur (see note XLVI above) + Shaddai (see note XLVIII). This is Zurishaddai, meaning “my rock is the Almighty” or “rock of the Almighty.”

From Judah,LII NahshonLIII son of Amminadab.LIV

Notes on verse 7

LII “Judah” = Yehudah. Probably from yadah (to throw one’s hands into the air in a gesture of praise); from yad (hand). This is Judah, meaning “praised.”
LIII “Nahshon” = Nachshon. 10x in OT. From the same as nachash (serpent, snake); from nachash (to divine, interpret omens, learn from experience, observe; to hiss). This is Nahshon, a name meaning “enchanter” or “serpent” or “bronze” or “oracle” or “diviner.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Nahshon.html
LIV “Amminadab” = Amminadab. 11x in OT. From am (people or nation; a tribe, troops or armies, or figuratively to refer to a flock of animals); {from amam (to darken, hide, associate; creating shadows by huddling together)} + nadib (voluntary and so it implies generous, noble, magnanimous, or a generous person); {from nadab (to offer willingly, volunteer, freely give, be willing)}. This is Amminadab, meaning “my kin is noble” or “people of liberality.”

From Issachar,LV NethanelLVI son of Zuar.LVII

Notes on verse 8

LV “Issachar” = Yissaskar. Related to “take” in v2. Perhaps from nasa (see note XV above) + sakar (wages, payment, service, salary, worth, reward, or benefit); {from sakar (to hire, reward, earn)} OR ish (man); {perhaps from enosh (see note XXXVIII above)} + sakar (see above). This is Issachar, one of Jacob’s children and his tribe. It may mean “there is recompense,” “man of hire,” “he is wages,” or “he will bring a reward.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Issachar.html
LVI “Nethanel” = Nethanel. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6. 14x in OT. From natan (to give, put, set, offer; to give literally or figuratively) + El (see note XIX above). This is Nethanel, meaning “given of God.”
LVII “Zuar” = Tsuar. 5x in OT. From tsaar (to be brought low, small, little one; figuratively, be insignificant or ignoble). This is Zuar, meaning “little one” or “small.”

From Zebulun,LVIII EliabLIX son of Helon.LX

Notes on verse 9

LVIII “Zebulun” = Zebulun. From zabal (to dwell, inclose, reside). This is Zebulun, that tribe, or their territory. It means “habitation.”
LIX “Eliab” = Eliab. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “ancestral” in v2. From El (see note XIX above) + ab (see note XXI above). This is Eliab, meaning “God is father” or “God of his father.”
LX “Helon” = Chelon.  5x in OT. From chayil (strength, wealth, ability, activity; a soldier or a company of soldiers; goods; a force of people, means, or goods; valor, virtue, or strength); {from chul (to be firm, strong, prosperous; to endure)}. This is Helon, meaning “strong” or “man of anguish.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Helon.html

10 From the sons of Joseph:LXI

from Ephraim,LXII ElishamaLXIII son of Ammihud;LXIV

Notes on verse 10a

LXI “Joseph” = Yoseph. From yasaph (to add, increase, continue, exceed). This is Joseph, meaning “he increases” or “let him add.”
LXII “Ephraim” = Ephrayim. From the same as epher (ashes or dust – properly something strewn) OR from parah (to grow, increase, be fruitful in a literal or figurative sense). This is Ephraim, one of Joseph’s sons, his descendants, and their land.
LXIII “Elishama” = Elishama. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “Eliab” in v9 & “Simeon” in v6. 17x in OT. From El (see note XIX above) + shama (see note XLIX above). This is Elishama, meaning “God has heard” or “God of hearing.”
LXIV “Ammihud” = Ammihud. Related to “Amminadab” in v7. 9x in OT. From am (see note LIV above) + hod (grandeur, beauty, glory, honor, or authority; emphasizes a form or appearance with gravitas). This is Ammihud, meaning “my kinsman is majesty” or “people of splendor.”

from Manasseh,LXV GamalielLXVI son of Pedahzur.LXVII

Notes on verse 10b

LXV “Manasseh” = Menashsheh. From nashah (to forget, neglect, remove, deprive). This is Manasseh, literally “causing to forget.” It is Manasseh, his tribe, or the lands of the tribe.
LXVI “Gamaliel” = Gamliel. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “Eliab” in v9 & “Elishama” in v10. 5x in OT. From gamal (how one deals with someone whether positively or negatively – so to reward, requite; to wean or the work that goes into something ripening) + El (see note XIX above). This is Gamaliel, meaning “reward of God.”
LXVII “Pedahzur” = Pedahtsur. Related to “Egypt” in v1 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Zurishaddai” in v6. 6x in OT. From padah (to sever, to ransom; to secure someone’s release by paying their debt freeing them from slavery; to redeem, rescue, deliver, preserve; the redemption price) + tsur (see note XLVI above). This is Pedahzur, meaning “the rock has ransomed,” which is to say, “God has ransomed.”

11 From Benjamin,LXVIII AbidanLXIX son of Gideoni.LXX

Notes on verse 11

LXVIII “Benjamin” = Binyamin. Related to “Israelites” and “houses” in v2 & “Reuben” in v5. From ben (see note XIX above) + from yamin (right hand or side; that which is stronger or more agile; the south); {perhaps yamam (to go or choose the right, use the right hand; to be physically fit or firm)}. This is Benjamin, meaning “son of the right hand.” It could refer to Benjamin himself, his offspring, their tribe, or their territory.
LXIX “Abidan” = Abidan. Related to “ancestral” in v2 & “Eliab” in v9. 5x in OT. From ab (see note XXI above) + din (to judge, defend, dispute, govern, quarrel, plead). This is Abidan, meaning “my father is judge” or “father of judgment.”
LXX “Gideoni” = Gidoni. 5x in OT. From gada (to cut or chop as one cuts down a tree; used for cutting off or destroying things). This is Gideoni, meaning“warlike” or “of Gideon” or “of hewing down” or “one of the fellers”; see https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Gideoni.html

12 From Dan,LXXI AhiezerLXXII son of Ammishaddai.LXXIII

Notes on verse 12

LXXI “Dan” = Dan. Related to “Abidan” in v11. From din (see note LXIX above). This is Dan or a Danite. It means “judge” and can refer to Dan, his tribe, or the lands of the tribe.
LXXII “Ahiezer” = Achiezer. 6x in OT. From ach (brother, kindred, another, other, like) + ezer (help, aid, helper); {from azar (to help, protect, support, ally; properly, to surround so as to provide aid)}. This is Ahiezer, meaning “my brother is help.”
LXXIII “Ammishaddai” = Ammishaddai. Related to “Amminadab” in v7 & “Ammihud” in v10 – rel to “Zurishaddai” in v6. 5x in OT. From am (see note LIV above) + Shaddai (see note XLVIII above). This is Ammishaddai, meaning “my kin is Shaddai” or “people of the Almighty.”

13 From Asher,LXXIV PagielLXXV son of Ochran.LXXVI

Notes on verse 13

LXXIV “Asher” = Asher. From ashar (to go straight, lead, guide; to be level and so to be right, blessed, honest, happy). This is Asher, one of Jacob’s children and his tribe. It means “happy one.”
LXXV “Pagiel” = Pagiel. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “Eliab” in v9 & “Elishama” and “Gamaliel” in v10. 5x in OT. From paga (to meet or happen, whether unintentionally or of violence; to plead, spare, reach, or intercede) + El (see note XIX above). This is Pagiel, meaning “occurrence of God.”
LXXVI “Ochran” = Okran. 5x in OT. From akar (properly to stir water – figuratively it can be to trouble, harm, afflict, or worsen). This is Ochran, meaning “muddler.”

14 From Gad,LXXVII EliasaphLXXVIII son of Deuel.LXXIX

Notes on verse 14

LXXVII “Gad” = Gad. Perhaps from gad (fortune, troop; Gad, the name of a god of Babylon); from gad (fortunate, a troop); from gud (to invade, overcome, attack). This is Gad, one of Jacob’s children, his tribe and the land they settled. It means “fortune” or “fortunate.”
LXXVIII “Eliasaph” = Eliasaph. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “Eliab” in v9 & “Elishama” and “Gamaliel” in v10 & “Pagiel” in v13 & “Joseph” in v10. 6x in OT. From El (see note XIX above) + yasaph (see note LXI above). This is Eliasaph, meaning “God has added” or “God is gatherer.”
LXXIX “Deuel” = Deuel. Related to “Israelites” in v2 & “Elizur” in v5 & “Shelumiel” in v6 & “Nethanel” in v8 & “Eliab” in v9 & “Elishama” and “Gamaliel” in v10 & “Pagiel” in v13 & “Eliasaph” in v14. 4x in OT. From yada (to know, be aware, see and so understand – includes observation, care, recognition; can also be used as a euphemism) + El (see note XIX above). This is Deuel, meaning “known of God.”

15 From Naphtali,LXXX AhiraLXXXI son of Enan.”LXXXII

Notes on verse 15

LXXX “Naphtali” = Naphtali. From pathal (to twist, twine, wrestle, struggle, behave in an unsavory way). This is Naphtali, meaning “my wrestling.” It can refer to Naphtali, his tribe, or the lands of the tribe.
LXXXI “Ahira” = Achira. Related to “Ahiezer” in v12. 5x in OT. From ach (see note LXXII above) + ra (bad, disagreeable, that which causes pain, misery, something having little or no value, something that is ethically bad, wicked, injury, calamity; anything that is not what it ought to be – a natural disaster, a disfigurement, an injury, a sin); {from ra’a’ (to be evil, bad, afflict; properly, to spoil – to destroy by breaking into pieces; figuratively, to cause something to be worthless; this is bad in a physical, social, or moral sense; that which displeases, to do harm or mischief, to punish or vex)}. This is Ahira, meaning “my brother is evil.”
LXXXII “Enan” = Enan. 5x in OT. From Ayin (Ain; a sprig or fountain); from the same as ayin (eye, appearance; eye in a literal or figurative sense; a fountain). This is Enan, meaning “having fountain”” or “having eyes.”

16 These were the ones chosenLXXXIII from the congregation, the leadersLXXXIV of their ancestral tribes, the heads of the divisionsLXXXV of Israel.

17 Moses and Aaron tookLXXXVI these menLXXXVII who had been designatedLXXXVIII by name, 

Notes on verses 16-17

LXXXIII “chosen” = qari. 3x in OT. From qara (to call or call out – to call someone by name; calling forth). This is called, chosen, or famous.
LXXXIV “leaders” = nasi. Related to “take” in v2 & “Issachar” in v8. From nasa (see note XV above). This is one lifted up or exalter. So, it could be prince, chief, ruler, captain, king, or vapor.
LXXXV “divisions” = eleph. Perhaps from the same as eleph (herd, cattle); from alaph (to learn, speak, associate with). This is thousand.
LXXXVI “took” = laqach. This is to take, accept, carry away, receive. It can also have the sense of take a wife or take in marriage.
LXXXVII “men” = enosh. Related to “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
LXXXVIII “designated” = naqab. This is to pierce, bore holes, puncture; to make a hole more or less forcefully. It is also to curse or libel. It can also mean to appoint, express, blaspheme, or name.

18 and on the first day of the second month they assembled the whole congregation together.LXXXIX They registeredXC themselves in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names from twenty years old and up, individually, 19 as the Lord had commandedXCI Moses. So he enrolled them in the wilderness of Sinai.

Notes on verses 18-19

LXXXIX “assembled…together” = qum. To arise, stand, accomplish, establish, abide. This is rising as in rising against, getting up after being sick or asleep, arising from one state to another, becoming powerful, or rising for action. It can also be standing in a figurative sense.
XC “registered” = yalad. This is to bear or bring forth. It can mean to act as midwife or to show one’s lineage. This is often used for birth or begetting.
XCI “commanded” = tsavah. This is to charge, command, order, appoint, or enjoin. This is the root that the Hebrew word for “commandment” comes from (mitsvah).

20 XCIIThe descendantsXCIII of Reuben, Israel’s firstborn,XCIV their lineage,XCV in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, individually, every maleXCVI from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 

Notes on verse 20

XCII {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XLI above.
XCIII “descendants” = ben. Same as “Israelites” in v2. See note XIX above.
XCIV “firstborn” = bekor. From bakar (to bear fruit, be firstborn, firstling, that which opens the womb, give the birthright to). This is firstborn or chief.
XCV “lineage” = toledoth. Related to “registered” in v18. From yalad (see note XC above). This is generations descent, family, or history.
XCVI “male” = zakar. Same as “male” in v2. See note XXVI above.

21 those enrolled of the tribe of Reuben were fortyXCVII-sixXCVIII thousandXCIX fiveC hundred.CI

Notes on verse 21

XCVII “forty” = arbaim. From the same as arba (four); from raba (to make square or be four-sided); perhaps from raba (to lie down flat; can be to lie for mating). This is forty.
XCVIII “six” = shesh. This is six. Figuratively, it can be a surplus since it is one more than the number of fingers on the hand.
XCIX “thousand” = eleph. Same as “divisions” in v16. See note LXXXV above.
C “five” = chamesh. This is five.
CI “hundred” = meah. This is hundred or some number times one hundred (i.e. hundredfold or the base of two hundred, three hundred, etc.).

22 The descendants of Simeon, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, those of them who were numbered,CII according to the number of names, individually, every maleCIII from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 23 those enrolled of the tribe of Simeon were fiftyCIV-nineCV thousand threeCVI hundred.

24 The descendants of Gad, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 25 those enrolled of the tribe of Gad were forty-five thousand six hundred fifty.

Notes on verses 22-25

CII “numbered” = paqad. Same as “enroll” in v3. See note XXXVI above.
CIII “male” = zakar. Same as “male” in v2. See note XXVI above.
CIV “fifty” = chamishshim. Related to “five” in v21. From chamesh (see note C above). This is fifty.
CV “nine” = tesha. Perhaps from sha’ah (to gaze at, gaze around, regard – to look to, especially for help; to consider or be compassionate; to look at in amazement or while confounded). This is nine, perhaps as looking to the next number associated with fullness (10).
CVI “three” = shalosh. This is three, fork, three times.

26 The descendants of Judah, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 27 those enrolled of the tribe of Judah were seventyCVII-fourCVIII thousand six hundred.

28 The descendants of Issachar, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 29 those enrolled of the tribe of Issachar were fifty-four thousand four hundred.

30 The descendants of Zebulun, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 31 those enrolled of the tribe of Zebulun were fifty-sevenCIX thousand four hundred.

32 The descendants of Joseph: the descendants of Ephraim, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 33 those enrolled of the tribe of Ephraim were forty thousand five hundred; 34 the descendants of Manasseh, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 35 those enrolled of the tribe of Manasseh were thirtyCX-twoCXI thousand two hundred.

36 The descendants of Benjamin, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 37 those enrolled of the tribe of Benjamin were thirty-five thousand four hundred.

Notes on verses 26-37

CVII “seventy” = shibim. From sheba (seven – the number of perfection/sacred fullness). This is seventy.
CVIII “four” = arba. Related to “forty” in v21. See note XCVII above.
CIX “seven” = sheba. Related to “seventy” in v27. See note CVII above.
CX “thirty” = sheloshim. Related to “three” in v23. From the same as shalosh (see note CVI above). This is thirty or thirtieth.
CXI “two” = shenayim. Related to “second” in v1. From sheni (see note IX above). This is two, both, second, couple.

38 The descendants of Dan, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 39 those enrolled of the tribe of Dan were sixtyCXII-two thousand seven hundred.

40 The descendants of Asher, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 41 those enrolled of the tribe of Asher were forty-oneCXIII thousand five hundred.

42 The descendants of Naphtali, their lineage, in their clans, by their ancestral houses, according to the number of names, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war: 43 those enrolled of the tribe of Naphtali were fifty-three thousand four hundred.

44 These are those who were enrolled, whom Moses and Aaron enrolled with the help of the leaders of Israel, twelveCXIV men,CXV eachCXVI representingCXVII his ancestral house. 

Notes on verses 38-44

CXII “sixty” = shishshim. Related to “six” in v21. From shesh (see note XCVIII above). This is sixty.
CXIII “one” = echad. Same as “first” in v4. See note VIII above.
CXIV “twelve” = shenayim + asar. Shenayim is the same as “two” in v35. See note CXI above. Asar is related to “twenty” in v3. From the same as eser (see note XXVIII above). This is ten or -teen.
CXV “men” = ish. Same as “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
CXVI “each” = enosh + echad. Enosh is the same as “men” in v17. See note LXXXVIII above. Echad is the same as “first” in v1. See note VIII above.
CXVII “representing” = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XLI above.

45 CXVIIISo allCXIX those enrolled of the Israelites, by their ancestral houses, from twenty years old and up, everyone able to go to war in Israel— 46 all those enrolled were six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty. 47 The Levites,CXX however, were not numbered by their ancestral tribe along withCXXI them.

Notes on verses 45-47

CXVIII {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “be” in v4. See note XLI above.
CXIX “all” = kol. Same as “whole” in v2. See note XVII above.
CXX “Levites” = Leviyyi. From Levi (Levi; perhaps meaning “attached”; Jacob’s son, his tribe, and descendants); perhaps from lavah (to join, twine, unite, remain, borrow, lend). This is Levite or levitical.
CXXI “along with” = tavek. This is among, middle, in the midst, the center. Perhaps, properly, to sever.

48 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 49 “OnlyCXXII the tribe of Levi you shall not enroll, and you shall not takeCXXIII a census of them withCXXIV the other Israelites. 

Notes on verses 48-49

CXXII “only” = ak. Related to aken (surely, truly, nevertheless); from kun (properly, in a perpendicular position; literally, to establish, fix, fasten, prepare; figuratively, it is certainty, to be firm, faithfulness, render sure or prosperous). This is a positive statement – surely, also, certainly, alone, only.
CXXIII “take” = nasa. Same as “take” in v2. See note XV above.
CXXIV “with” = tavek. Same as “along with” in v47. See note CXXI above.

50 Rather, you shall appointCXXV the Levites over the tabernacleCXXVI of the covenantCXXVII and over all its equipmentCXXVIII and over all that belongs to it;

Notes on verse 50a

CXXV “appoint” = paqad. Same as “enroll” in v3. See note XXXVI above.
CXXVI “tabernacle” = mishkan. From shakan (to settle down in the sense of residing somewhere or staying there permanently; to abide or continue). This is a place where one lives – a tabernacle, tent, or other kind of dwelling. It can also be a lair where animals live, the grave, the Temple, or the Tabernacle.
CXXVII “covenant” = eduth. Related to “congregation” in v2. From ed (see note XVIII above). This is testimony, ordinance, decree, warning, or witness.
CXXVIII “equipment” = keli. From kalah (to end, be finished, complete, prepare, consume, spent, or completely destroyed). This is something that was prepared – any implement, utensil, article, vessel, weapon, or instrument. Also includes jewels, weapons, bags, carriages, and furniture.

they are to carryCXXIX the tabernacle and all its equipment, and they shall tendCXXX it and shall campCXXXI aroundCXXXII the tabernacle. 

Notes on verse 50b

CXXIX “carry” = nasa. Same as “take” in v2. See note XV above.
CXXX “tend” = sharat. This is ministering, serving, or waiting on. It can refer to one offering service as a worshipper or one serving as a servant.
CXXXI “camp” = chanah. This is decline, bending down, or living in tents. It can be camping to create a home or camping as a part of battle.
CXXXII “around” = sabib. From sabab (turning around, going around; to surround, cast, walk, fetch; to revolve or border in a literal or figurative sense). This is a circuit or a circle. It could refer to an environment, one’s neighbors, or a circular path round about.

51 When the tabernacle is to set out,CXXXIII the Levites shall take it down,CXXXIV and when the tabernacle is to be pitched,CXXXV the Levites shall set it up.CXXXVI And any outsiderCXXXVII who comes nearCXXXVIII shall be put to death.CXXXIX 

Notes on verse 51

CXXXIII “set out” = nasa. This is properly pulling up as when one pulls up tent pegs or stakes. This would imply striking tents in order to start a journey. So this could be bring, pullout, set out, journey, or cause to go away.
CXXXIV “take…down” = yarad. This is to go down, descend; going down in a literal or figurative sense. It can be going to the shore or a boundary, bringing down an enemy.
CXXXV “pitched” = chanah. Same as “camp” in v50. See note CXXXI above.
CXXXVI “set…up” = qum. Same as “assembled…together” in v18. See note LXXXIX above.
CXXXVII “outsider” = zur. This is to come from somewhere else – a stranger. It is to stop for lodging. Figuratively, it can also mean to profane or commit adultery.
CXXXVIII “comes near” = qarab. This is to come near, offer, make ready, approach, take.
CXXXIX “put to death” = mut. This is to die in a literal or figurative sense. It can also refer to being a dead body.

52 The otherCXL Israelites shall campCXLI in their respective regimentalCXLII camps, by companies,CXLIII 

Notes on verse 52

CXL “other” = ish. Same as “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
CXLI {untranslated} = ish. Same as “man” in v4. See note XXXVIII above.
CXLII “regimental” = degel. 14x in OT – all Numbers except 1x in Song of Songs. From dagal (to look, behold, or flaunt; to raise a flag or, figuratively, to be chief-most or very noticeable). This is a standard or flag.
CXLIII “companies” = machaneh. Related to “camp” in v50. From chanah (see note CXXXI above). This is an encampment, whether of people traveling together or soldiers. So, it can be a camp band, or company as well as an army of soldiers. Also can be used of other groups like animals, angels or stars.

53 but the Levites shall camp around the tabernacle of the covenant, that there may be no wrathCXLIV on the congregation of the Israelites, and the Levites shall performCXLV the dutiesCXLVI of the tabernacle of the covenant.” 54 The Israelites didCXLVII so;CXLVIII they did just as the Lord commanded Moses.

Notes on verses 53-54

CXLIV “wrath” = qetseph. From qatsaph (angry or provoked to wrath; a bursting into anger). This is indignation, rage, strife, foam, a splinter.
CXLV “perform” = shamar. This is to keep, watch, or preserve. It means to guard something or to protect it as a thorny hedge protects something.
CXLVI “duties” = mishmeret. Related to “perform” in v53. From mishmar (jail, guard, watch, guard post); from shamar (see note CXLV above). This is a guard or watch or guard post. It is used figuratively for obligation, duty, or observance, including religious observance.
CXLVII “did” = asah. This is to make, do, act, appoint, become in many senses.
CXLVIII “so” = ken. Related to “only” in v49. Perhaps from kun (see note CXXII above). This is to set upright. Generally used figuratively to mean thus, so, afterwards, rightly so.


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