Numbers 34:20 (KJV)

What does Numbers 34:20 mean?

Numbers 34:20 names Shemuel the son of Ammihud as the representative from the tribe of Simeon for a specific task. This verse is part of a list assigning leaders from each tribe to help divide the land of Canaan among the Israelites.

In this chapter, God is instructing Moses about how the land should be distributed once the Israelites enter Canaan. Moses is told to appoint one leader from each tribe to oversee the process. Here, Shemuel is chosen from Simeon’s tribe, showing that every tribe had a voice in this important event.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 34:20

• שֵׁבֶט (shevet, "tribe"): This word refers to a distinct family group within Israel, emphasizing the organized and communal nature of the people.
• בֵּן (ben, "son"): This term shows direct lineage, underlining the importance of family heritage and clear identification in leadership roles.
• שִׁמְעוֹן (Shim‘on, "Simeon"): Naming the tribe roots the verse in a specific family line, connecting the present leaders to the patriarchs.
• שְׁמוּאֵל (Shemu’el, "Shemuel"): The personal name identifies the individual responsible, stressing accountability and personal involvement.
• עַמִּיהוּד (‘Ammihud, "Ammihud"): Including the father’s name further clarifies identity, which was important for official roles in ancient Israel.

Why Numbers 34:20 matters

• This verse shows that the land division was handled with careful organization, with each tribe selecting a leader to ensure fairness and representation.
• By naming both Shemuel and his father Ammihud, the text highlights the importance of clear lineage and trustworthy leadership in Israel’s history.
• The verse connects to the larger passage by showing that the process of dividing the land was not random or arbitrary, but involved recognized leaders from every tribe.