“And the name of Amram’s wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, whom her mother bare to Levi in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister.”
Context: Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and is part of the Torah, also known as the Pentateuch or the Books of Moses. This book records the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness after their liberation from slavery in Egypt. It contains various lists, laws, and historical accounts.
Genealogical significance: Numbers 26:59 provides us with important genealogical information about the family of Amram and Jochebed. Amram was the son of Kohath, who was the son of Levi, and Jochebed was the daughter of Levi. This verse establishes the lineage of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam, who played significant roles in the liberation and leadership of the Israelites.
Amram and Jochebed: Amram and Jochebed were members of the tribe of Levi, which held a special role among the Israelites as the priestly tribe. Amram married his aunt, Jochebed, as they were from the same tribe. They had three notable children:
- Aaron: Aaron was the older brother of Moses and became the first high priest of Israel. He played a vital role as the spokesperson for Moses and served as the intermediary between God and the people during their time in the wilderness.
- Moses: Moses is one of the most significant figures in biblical history. He was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery and into the Promised Land. Moses received the Ten Commandments and served as the mediator between God and the people.
- Miriam: Miriam was the sister of Aaron and Moses. She played a significant role in the Exodus story, and she is also recognized as a prophetess and a leader of women in the community.
Importance of the verse: Numbers 26:59 is important because it highlights the genealogy of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam, the key figures in the liberation and leadership of the Israelites. This verse establishes their lineage and emphasizes their significance in fulfilling God’s plan for the nation of Israel.
Lessons we can learn:
- God uses ordinary individuals: Amram and Jochebed were ordinary people from the tribe of Levi. Yet, God chose their family to play instrumental roles in the salvation and leadership of His people. This reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes.
- Family heritage: The verse emphasizes the significance of family and lineage. It demonstrates that God works through generations, passing down His promises and blessings. The faith and obedience of Amram and Jochebed had a profound impact on their children and future generations.
- God’s faithfulness: Despite being born into slavery in Egypt, Aaron, Moses, and Miriam experienced God’s faithfulness in leading them out of bondage and guiding them through the wilderness. This serves as a reminder that God is faithful to His promises and can bring deliverance even in the most challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, Numbers 26:59 provides us with essential genealogical information about the family of Amram and Jochebed, emphasizing the significance of Aaron, Moses, and Miriam in the history of Israel. It teaches us about God’s ability to use ordinary individuals, the importance of family heritage, and God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His plans.
