Numbers 2:19
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were forty thousand and five hundred.
Original Language Analysis
וּצְבָא֖וֹ
And his host
H6635
וּצְבָא֖וֹ
And his host
Strong's:
H6635
Word #:
1 of 6
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
וּפְקֻֽדֵיהֶ֑ם
and those that were numbered
H6485
וּפְקֻֽדֵיהֶ֑ם
and those that were numbered
Strong's:
H6485
Word #:
2 of 6
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
Historical Context
Ephraim's numerical inferiority to Manasseh at this census (40,500 vs. 32,200) would reverse by the second census, with Ephraim growing while Manasseh declined. This demographic shift reflected God's sovereign purposes in establishing Ephraim's eventual preeminence.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Ephraim's eventual preeminence despite initial smaller size illustrate God's sovereignty in reversing natural expectations?
- What does this pattern of younger superseding elder throughout Scripture teach us about salvation by grace rather than merit?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Ephraim's census total (40,500) made it smaller than Manasseh at this census, yet Jacob's prophecy elevated the younger above the elder (Genesis 48:19). This ongoing reversal pattern—younger superseding elder—points ultimately to Christ, the second Adam, superseding the first Adam. God's sovereign election operates independently of natural advantages, directing glory to His grace rather than human merit.