Numbers 10:26
And over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher was Pagiel the son of Ocran.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Pagiel served as Asher's census representative (Numbers 1:13) and brought offerings at the dedication (Numbers 7:72-77). Asher's territory along the Mediterranean coast north of Mount Carmel (Joshua 19:24-31) included Phoenician port cities like Acco and Sidon. The region's agricultural wealth (olive oil, grain, fruits) fulfilled Jacob's prophecy of "royal dainties." However, Asher's failure to conquer their territory completely meant coexistence with Canaanites, leading to cultural and religious compromise. Anna the prophetess, who recognized infant Jesus as Messiah (Luke 2:36-38), came from Asher—demonstrating that faithful individuals could emerge even from obscure tribes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Asher's name ("blessed/happy") yet relative historical obscurity challenge the assumption that blessing guarantees prominence?
- What does Asher's incomplete conquest teach about how compromise with sin—even in areas of strength and blessing—leads to mediocrity?
- In what ways does Pagiel's name ("God encounters") remind you that divine blessing comes through meeting with God, not merely through favorable circumstances?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher was Pagiel the son of Ocran. Asher marched with Dan's rear guard division under Pagiel (פַּגְעִיאֵל, "God meets" or "God encounters"). Asher, born to Jacob through Leah's maidservant Zilpah, received an abundant blessing: "Out of Asher his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties" (Genesis 49:20). The name Asher means "happy" or "blessed," reflecting Leah's joy at his birth (Genesis 30:13). His tribe embodied material prosperity and satisfaction.
Asher's 41,500 warriors (Numbers 1:41) provided substantial strength to the rear guard. The tribe's later coastal territory in Galilee's fertile region fulfilled Jacob's blessing of rich produce and prosperity. Yet Asher failed to fully drive out the Canaanites (Judges 1:31-32), compromising their inheritance. Despite their blessed name and abundant land, Asher remained relatively obscure in Israel's history—a warning that prosperity without faithfulness leads to spiritual mediocrity.