“These are they that were numbered by Moses and Eleazar the priest, who numbered the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses and Eleazar, the priest, are mentioned as the ones who conducted a census of the children of Israel. This census took place in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River, close to the city of Jericho.
Key Points:
- Census of the Children of Israel: The verse highlights the purpose of the census, which was to count the people of Israel. This counting was significant for several reasons, including determining the number of able-bodied men for military purposes and apportioning the land among the tribes.
- Moses and Eleazar: Moses, the great leader chosen by God, was responsible for leading the Israelites out of Egypt and guiding them through the wilderness. Eleazar was the son of Aaron and served as the high priest after his father’s death. Together, they conducted the census, reflecting their leadership roles in the community.
- The Plains of Moab: The census took place in the plains of Moab, which was the region east of the Jordan River, across from Jericho. After wandering in the wilderness for forty years, the Israelites were preparing to enter the Promised Land. Moab was one of the nations they encountered along their journey.
- Symbolism and Significance: The census represented God’s fulfillment of His promise to make the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as numerous as the stars. It was a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. Additionally, the numbering of the people signified their identity as a chosen nation and their readiness to take possession of the land.
- Foreshadowing: The census also foreshadowed the division of the land among the tribes and the allocation of their respective inheritances. This distribution would occur later in the book of Joshua when the Israelites entered the Promised Land.
Application:
- Appreciation of God’s Faithfulness: Reflecting on the census in Numbers can remind us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Just as He remained faithful to His covenant with Israel, we can trust in God’s promises for our lives.
- Leadership and Responsibility: The roles of Moses and Eleazar highlight the importance of leadership and responsibility within a community. As leaders, we should take our roles seriously and fulfill our duties with integrity.
- Preparation and Readiness: The Israelites’ numbering was a step toward their readiness to enter the Promised Land. Similarly, we should be prepared and ready for the tasks and challenges God sets before us, trusting in His guidance and provision.
- God’s Sovereign Plan: The census demonstrates God’s meticulous plan and order. Every person counted was part of God’s grand design for His people. Likewise, we can find comfort in knowing that we are not mere accidents but intentionally created by God with a purpose.
In summary, Numbers 26:63 highlights the census conducted by Moses and Eleazar in the plains of Moab. This event holds significance in terms of God’s faithfulness, leadership, readiness, and His sovereign plan for His chosen people.
