“These are the sons of Benjamin after their families: and they that were numbered of them were forty and five thousand and six hundred.”
Historical Context: The book of Numbers is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible traditionally attributed to Moses. It covers the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. The book of Numbers contains various censuses conducted to count and organize the tribes of Israel.
The Tribe of Benjamin: Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel. In the book of Genesis, Benjamin was born while his mother Rachel was traveling, and she died giving birth to him (Genesis 35:16-19). Benjamin’s descendants formed the tribe of Benjamin, and they occupied territory near Jerusalem in the Promised Land.
The Census: The verse in question refers to a census conducted among the descendants of Benjamin. Counting the population was a significant task for the Israelites to understand their numbers and distribution as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. This census was conducted as part of God’s command to Moses, who was instructed to number all the able-bodied men twenty years old and above who could go to war (Numbers 1:2-3).
Tribal Identity and Inheritance: The purpose of the census was to determine the size of each tribe and their allocation of land in the Promised Land. The size of a tribe reflected its military strength and the inheritance of land for each family within the tribe. The number given in Numbers 26:41 represents the total number of men from the tribe of Benjamin who were eligible for military service.
God’s Faithfulness: This verse emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His promise to multiply the descendants of Jacob and make them into a great nation. Despite their years of wandering in the wilderness, God ensured that the tribes remained strong and numerous. Each tribe had a unique role and contribution in the overall plan of God.
Symbolism and Application: While the verse primarily provides a record of the census, it also carries symbolic significance. The growth of the tribe of Benjamin serves as a reminder that God is faithful to His promises and that He can bring increase and prosperity even in challenging circumstances. It encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness and provision, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult.
In conclusion, Numbers 26:41 records the number of men from the tribe of Benjamin who were counted in the census. It serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to bring increase and blessings even in challenging times.
