Numbers 26:1
And it came to pass after the plague, that the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest, saying,
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָה֙
that the LORD
H3068
יְהוָה֙
that the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 10
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
בֶּן
the son
H1121
בֶּן
the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
7 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
Forty years separated these censuses. Every adult male counted in chapter 1 (except Joshua and Caleb) was dead. This second numbering marked Israel's readiness to enter the land the previous generation rejected. Census taking demonstrated sovereignty (God owns His people) and preparation for warfare and land distribution.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God prepare new generations to accomplish what previous generations failed to achieve?
- What does this transition teach about God's patience and faithfulness across generations?
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Analysis & Commentary
After the plague, God commanded a second census—echoing the first census in chapter 1. The repetition demonstrates both divine order and generational transition. The old generation died in the wilderness as God decreed; this census counted a new generation prepared to inherit Canaan. God's purposes continue despite human failure; He always raises up new servants when old ones fall.