Numbers 34:27 (KJV)

What does Numbers 34:27 mean?

Numbers 34:27 names Ahihud, son of Shelomi, as the leader (or "prince") chosen from the tribe of Asher to help oversee the division of the land of Canaan among the Israelites. This verse is part of a list identifying the representatives from each tribe who would help distribute the land.

In context, God is instructing Moses on how the Promised Land should be divided among the tribes of Israel. Each tribe is to have a leader involved in this process, and Numbers 34:27 specifically identifies the representative for the tribe of Asher. This verse highlights the organized and communal approach to dividing the land, showing that each tribe had a voice through its chosen leader.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 34:27

• "prince" (נָשִׂיא, nasi): This word means a leader, chief, or prince. Here, it emphasizes that Ahihud held a position of authority and responsibility within his tribe.
• "tribe" (מַטֶּה, matteh): This term refers to a tribal group or clan. It clarifies that the selection is by tribal divisions, not just by families or individuals.
• "children" (בֵּן, ben): Often translated as "sons" or "descendants," this word underlines the tribal identity as being passed down through family lines.
• "Asher" (אָשֵׁר, Asher): This is the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob’s son Asher.
• "Ahihud" (אֲחִיהוּד, Ahihud): The personal name of the leader chosen from Asher.
• "son" (בֵּן, ben): Repeated here to show lineage, connecting Ahihud to his father Shelomi.
• "Shelomi" (שְׁלוֹמִי, Shelomi): The name of Ahihud’s father, included to clarify which Ahihud is meant.

Why Numbers 34:27 matters

• Numbers 34:27 helps clarify that the land division was a carefully organized process, with each tribe having a specific leader involved, not left to chance or favoritism.
• By naming Ahihud and his lineage, the verse shows the importance of clear records and accountability in leadership roles among the Israelites.
• This verse connects to the broader chapter, which lists all the tribal leaders, emphasizing the unity and shared responsibility of the tribes in settling the land.