Numbers 1:8 (KJV)

What does Numbers 1:8 mean?

Numbers 1:8 identifies Nethaneel, the son of Zuar, as the representative from the tribe of Issachar. This verse is part of a list naming the leaders from each tribe who were chosen to assist Moses in the census of Israel.

In context, God is instructing Moses to count the people of Israel by their tribes, and each tribe has a leader named to help with this task. Numbers 1:8 simply records the name of the leader from the tribe of Issachar, showing the careful organization and structure among the Israelites as they prepared for their journey.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 1:8

• יִשָּׂשכָר (Yissaskar; "Issachar"): This is the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob’s son Issachar. Naming the tribe roots the verse in Israel’s family history.
• נְתַנְאֵל (Nethaneel; "Nethaneel"): This name means "God has given." It highlights the tradition of meaningful names in Israelite culture.
• בֵּן (ben; "son"): This word shows the family connection, making clear that Nethaneel is the son of Zuar.
• צוּעָר (Tsu‘ar; "Zuar"): This is the personal name of Nethaneel’s father, included to specify exactly which Nethaneel is meant, since names could repeat in the community.

Why Numbers 1:8 matters

• Numbers 1:8 shows the importance of order and leadership in Israel’s community, with each tribe having a specific leader for major tasks like the census.
• The verse connects the present generation to their ancestors by naming both tribe and family, reinforcing the sense of identity and continuity.
• By listing these leaders, the passage sets up the structure for the rest of the book, where these men will play roles in organizing and guiding the people.