Numbers 26:53
Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names.
Original Language Analysis
הָאָ֛רֶץ
Unto these the land
H776
הָאָ֛רֶץ
Unto these the land
Strong's:
H776
Word #:
3 of 6
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
בְּנַֽחֲלָ֖ה
for an inheritance
H5159
בְּנַֽחֲלָ֖ה
for an inheritance
Strong's:
H5159
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
Cross References
Joshua 11:23So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war.Joshua 14:1And these are the countries which the children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, distributed for inheritance to them.Psalms 105:44And gave them the lands of the heathen: and they inherited the labour of the people;
Historical Context
The tribal sizes varied significantly. Judah was the largest tribe, Simeon among the smallest. Proportional distribution ensured that population density remained roughly similar across territories. This fairness in allocation prevented the resentment and conflict that arbitrary distribution might cause. God's wisdom in distribution maintained peace while honoring tribal distinctiveness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does proportional distribution of resources reflect God's justice and wisdom?
- What does this principle teach about equity versus equality in Christian community?
- In what ways should the church distribute responsibilities and resources according to capacity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The principle that land distribution be proportional to population—'to many thou shalt give more inheritance, to few less'—demonstrates divine justice and equity. Larger tribes received more land, smaller tribes less, ensuring adequate provision while preventing accumulation or deprivation. This proportional justice reflects God's character—He judges fairly, considering circumstances while maintaining righteousness. The Reformed understanding that God's justice is both absolute (His standard is unchanging) and particular (applied to specific circumstances) is illustrated here.