Numbers 1:5
And these are the names of the men that shall stand with you: of the tribe of Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur.
Original Language Analysis
שְׁמ֣וֹת
And these are the names
H8034
שְׁמ֣וֹת
And these are the names
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
2 of 10
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים
H376
הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
3 of 10
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
4 of 10
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יַֽעַמְד֖וּ
that shall stand
H5975
יַֽעַמְד֖וּ
that shall stand
Strong's:
H5975
Word #:
5 of 10
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
אִתְּכֶ֑ם
H854
אִתְּכֶ֑ם
Strong's:
H854
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
Historical Context
These tribal leaders were chosen from the heads of ancestral houses, representing the patriarchal structure established since Abraham. Their names would have been well-known to their contemporaries, ensuring accountability and legitimate authority.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's attention to genealogical detail encourage your faith in His particular care for your life and family?
- What does the preservation of these names teach us about the value of remembering God's faithfulness through generations?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The genealogical precision in naming tribal leaders emphasizes God's particular providence over individual families and His covenantal faithfulness across generations. Each name carried covenant significance, reminding Israel that their identity was rooted not in personal achievement but in God's electing grace toward their fathers. This meticulous record demonstrates that God's redemptive plan unfolds through specific people in specific times, ultimately leading to the genealogy of Christ.