“These are the families of Manasseh, and those that were numbered of them, fifty and two thousand and seven hundred.”
In the book of Numbers, chapter 26 records the second census of the Israelites taken in the wilderness, specifically after the incident of the rebellion of Korah (Numbers 16) and the subsequent punishment of the Israelites by a plague (Numbers 16:49). This census was conducted to determine the number of males who were eligible for military service from each tribe for the purpose of apportioning the Promised Land among them.
The verse in question refers specifically to the tribe of Manasseh. Manasseh was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the son of Joseph and the grandson of Jacob. Manasseh’s brother was Ephraim, and together they represented the two half-tribes of Joseph.
According to the census, the tribe of Manasseh numbered fifty-two thousand and seven hundred men who were of military age. This count indicates the strength and size of the tribe at that particular time.
It is worth noting that the numerical figures in the Bible, such as the one mentioned here, provide a glimpse into the organization, order, and growth of the nation of Israel. These numbers reveal the fulfillment of God’s promise to make Abraham’s descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5) and to give them the land of Canaan as their inheritance (Genesis 15:18-21).
Furthermore, the enumeration of the tribes and the census taken in the book of Numbers also highlights God’s faithfulness in preserving the lineage and heritage of His chosen people, as well as His commitment to fulfill His promises.
As with any verse in the Bible, it is essential to consider the broader context and the surrounding verses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the passage. Exploring the entire chapter and even the book of Numbers as a whole can provide additional insights into the historical and spiritual significance of the events and themes being described.
Remember, studying the Bible involves more than just examining individual verses. It is essential to read and interpret Scripture in light of its broader context, keeping in mind the historical background, literary style, and the overarching message of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.
