Numbers 1:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 1:39
39 Those that were numbered of them, even of the tribe of Dan, were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.
Chapter Context
Numbers 1 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, truth. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-54: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 1:39
39 Those that were numbered of them, even of the tribe of Dan, were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.
Analysis
Dan's 62,700 fighting men made it one of the larger tribes, second only to Judah at this census. This military strength, however, did not guarantee spiritual faithfulness. The tribe's size actually enabled their later apostasy by providing resources to establish a rival worship center at Dan (Judges 18; 1 Kings 12:29). This demonstrates that gifts, talents, and resources become curses rather than blessings when deployed in rebellion against God. Spiritual faithfulness, not worldly strength, determines usefulness to God.
Historical Context
Dan's large size and military strength enabled successful migration northward and conquest of Laish (Judges 18:27-29), yet this very success led to establishing idolatrous worship that would corrupt northern Israel. Dan's tribal identity eventually faded from significance.
Reflection
- How does Dan's large size paired with spiritual failure warn against trusting in gifts and resources rather than faithfulness to God?
- What does this teach us about the danger that strength and success can become snares if not accompanied by spiritual vitality?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Numbers 26:43