Numbers 26:56
According to the lot shall the possession thereof be divided between many and few.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
פִּי֙
According
H6310
פִּי֙
According
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
2 of 8
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
הַגּוֹרָ֔ל
to the lot
H1486
הַגּוֹרָ֔ל
to the lot
Strong's:
H1486
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)
נַֽחֲלָת֑וֹ
shall the possession
H5159
נַֽחֲלָת֑וֹ
shall the possession
Strong's:
H5159
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
בֵּ֥ין
H996
בֵּ֥ין
Strong's:
H996
Word #:
6 of 8
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
Historical Context
The actual land division, recorded in Joshua, demonstrated this principle in practice. Each tribe's territory was determined by lot, then boundaries were set according to population needs. The process combined divine initiative with human administration, showing that God works through ordained means to accomplish His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How do divine sovereignty and proportional justice coexist in God's providence?
- What does the combination of lot and census teach about God's methods?
- In what ways does God's sovereignty expressed through just means encourage trust in His character?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The summary statement—'according to the lot shall the possession thereof be divided'—combines divine sovereignty (lot) with fair distribution (according to numbers). The two principles work together: God determines the what and where (by lot), while proportionality ensures the how much (by census). This dual emphasis teaches that God's sovereignty doesn't negate justice, and justice doesn't limit sovereignty. The Reformed understanding that God's decrees are both absolute and wise is illustrated—He ordains what He wills, and what He wills is just.