Numbers 1:15
Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan.
Original Language Analysis
לְנַ֨פְתָּלִ֔י
Of Naphtali
H5321
לְנַ֨פְתָּלִ֔י
Of Naphtali
Strong's:
H5321
Word #:
1 of 4
naphtali, a son of jacob, with the tribe descended from him, and its territory
Historical Context
Naphtali, sixth son of Jacob through Bilhah, received territory in northern Galilee. This region became central to Jesus's ministry, with Capernaum and surrounding areas witnessing His mighty works. The tribal territory thus gained unexpected redemptive significance.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Naphtali's later connection to Jesus's ministry demonstrate that God wastes no detail in His providential ordering?
- What encouragement does this provide for believers who wonder about the purpose of their current circumstances?
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Analysis & Commentary
Naphtali's inclusion with specific leadership demonstrates that every tribe had a defined role in God's covenant administration. The tribe that would later be called 'Galilee of the Gentiles' (Isaiah 9:1; Matthew 4:15) and witness much of Jesus's ministry shows how God's providential care in the wilderness organization had ultimate redemptive purposes. No detail of Israel's structure was arbitrary or merely administrative; all served God's eternal plan.