Numbers 31:33
And threescore and twelve thousand beeves,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Cattle were valuable capital in ancient agrarian economy. Israel had maintained flocks in Goshen (Egypt) and throughout wilderness, but these Midianite herds dramatically increased national wealth. The timing—just before Conquest—positioned Israel to settle Canaan with agricultural resources.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's provision of practical resources (livestock) alongside spiritual guidance show His care for whole-life needs?
- What does the equal per-capita distribution teach about preventing economic inequality in covenant communities?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And threescore and twelve thousand beeves—72,000 cattle (baqar) represented enormous wealth. Cattle provided labor (plowing), dairy, leather, and meat. With sheep (675,000), donkeys (61,000), this livestock transformed Israel from survival wanderers into economically viable nation ready for Canaan settlement.
The distribution gave soldiers 36,000 cattle, congregation 36,000 cattle. From soldiers' portion: 72 to Eleazar as tribute (1/500). From congregation's: 720 to Levites (1/50). God's math ensures fairness: those who fought receive equal per-capita share as those who stayed, after proportional sacred tribute. This reflects both justice (risk rewarded) and equity (community shares).