Numbers 26:27 (KJV)

What does Numbers 26:27 mean?

Numbers 26:27 states that the families descended from Zebulun, one of the tribes of Israel, were counted and their total number was 60,500. This verse is part of a census listing the numbers of each tribe as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land.

In this section, Moses is recording the results of a census commanded by God, specifically listing the descendants of Zebulun. The verse gives a precise count of those eligible for military service from this tribe. This census was important for organizing the people and assigning land, showing the continued growth and structure of the nation of Israel.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 26:27

• "families" (מִשְׁפְּחֹת, mishpechot): This word refers to extended family groups or clans within the tribe, highlighting that the count was organized by these family divisions, not just individuals.
• "numbered" (פָּקַד, paqad): This verb means to count or take account of, often with the sense of an official or careful registration, emphasizing the seriousness and orderliness of the census.
• "threescore" (שִׁשִּׁים, shishim), "thousand" (אֶלֶף, elef), "five" (חָמֵשׁ, chamesh), "hundred" (מֵאָה, me'ah): These words together make up the total 60,500, showing the Hebrew way of expressing numbers by combining words for multiples of ten, hundred, and thousand.

Why Numbers 26:27 matters

• Numbers 26:27 shows the careful organization of the Israelite community, with attention to each tribe and family group, which was crucial for later land distribution.
• The verse highlights the growth and strength of the tribe of Zebulun, especially when compared to earlier censuses, reflecting God’s promise to multiply the descendants of Jacob.
• By listing the exact number, Numbers 26:27 helps set the stage for the allocation of territory in Canaan, making it clear that each tribe’s inheritance was based on their size and family structure.