Numbers 26:31 (KJV)

What does Numbers 26:31 mean?

Numbers 26:31 lists two families descended from the tribe of Manasseh: the Asrielites, from Asriel, and the Shechemites, from Shechem. This is part of a census where different family groups within Israel are named and counted.

In this chapter, Moses is recording the results of a new census of the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. The verse simply identifies the descendants of two men—Asriel and Shechem—who each became the founders of their own family groups within the tribe of Manasseh. This helps organize the people by their ancestral lines for inheritance and leadership.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 26:31

• אָשְׂרִיאֵל (Asriel, transliterated "Asri'el"): This is a personal name, meaning "God has vowed" or "God is my help." Its use here marks a specific family line within Manasseh.
• מִשְׁפָּחָה (mishpachah, transliterated "mishpachah"): This word means "family" or "clan." It highlights that the census is organized by extended family groups, not just individuals.
• שְׁכֶם (Shechem, transliterated "Shekhem"): Another personal name, meaning "shoulder" or "ridge," identifying a separate family line within Manasseh.
• אַשְׂרִיאֵלִי (Asrielites, transliterated "Asri'eli") and שְׁכֵמִי (Shechemites, transliterated "Shekhemi"): These forms show how the descendants of each ancestor were known as distinct groups.

Why Numbers 26:31 matters

• Numbers 26:31 shows how the Israelites kept careful records of their family lines, which was important for dividing land and responsibilities among the tribes.
• The verse helps clarify the structure of the tribe of Manasseh, showing that it was made up of several distinct family groups, each tracing back to a named ancestor.
• By listing these families, the passage connects the present generation to their history, reinforcing their identity and the promises made to their forefathers.