Numbers 1 9

Numbers 1:9 kjv

Of Zebulun; Eliab the son of Helon.

Numbers 1:9 nkjv

from Zebulun, Eliab the son of Helon;

Numbers 1:9 niv

from Zebulun, Eliab son of Helon;

Numbers 1:9 esv

from Zebulun, Eliab the son of Helon;

Numbers 1:9 nlt

Zebulun ? Eliab son of Helon

Numbers 1 verses

Numbers 1 9 Meaning

Numbers 1:9 identifies Eliab, the son of Helon, as the appointed representative and leader of the tribe of Zebulun during the initial census of the Israelites taken in the Wilderness of Sinai. This verse is part of a divinely commanded registration, detailing the leadership structure and preparation for the nation of Israel as they embark on their wilderness journey and eventual conquest of Canaan.

Numbers 1 9 Context

Numbers 1:9 is situated within the meticulously ordered record of the first census of Israel, commanded by the Lord to Moses in the Sinai wilderness, on the first day of the second month in the second year after their departure from Egypt. This census served several crucial purposes: to organize Israel into a military host, identify men eligible for service (those 20 years old and above), establish tribal identity and order for encampment, and prepare for the division of land upon entering Canaan. Each tribe was assigned a specific, divinely appointed leader to assist Moses and Aaron in conducting this count. Zebulun's leader, Eliab son of Helon, is here introduced, contributing to the detailed administrative account of the emerging nation of Israel under God's direct governance.

Numbers 1 9 Word analysis

• of Zebulun (זְבוּלֻן - Zəḇūlun): The name of the tenth son born to Jacob and Leah (Gen 30:19-20). It means "dwelling" or "habitation," perhaps reflecting Leah's statement, "God has endowed me with a good dowry." The tribe of Zebulun settled in northern Israel, near the Sea of Galilee. Their listing here establishes their distinct tribal identity and their place within the ordered Israelite community. This meticulous tribal listing emphasizes that every part of Israel matters to God.
• Eliab (אֱלִיאָב - ’Ĕlî’āḇ): A common Hebrew name meaning "My God is Father" or "God is my father." The theological significance embedded in the name of a tribal leader underscores the foundational covenant relationship between God and Israel. Eliab, in this context, is a key figure chosen by divine direction (Num 1:4) to represent and assist in the census of his tribe, highlighting his authority and standing. His name itself testifies to the God-centered worldview of the Israelite leadership.
• the son of (בֶּן - ben): This Hebrew term indicates direct lineal descent and emphasizes the importance of lineage in Israelite society. Identity was deeply rooted in family and tribal connections. Mentioning the father's name further distinguishes the individual, ensuring clarity and establishing their family's standing within the tribe. It signifies legitimate representation and a connection to established heritage.
• Helon (חֵלֹון - Ḥēlōn): The father of Eliab. The name's meaning is less certain, possibly related to strength or fortitude, or even "sand" (related to hol for sand). Its primary significance here is to fully identify Eliab, situating him within a known family unit. The naming of both the leader and his father highlights the careful and specific identification process commanded by God, underscoring the authenticity and accuracy of the census record.

Numbers 1 9 Bonus section

The precise naming convention (son of Helon) reinforces the historical reliability of the biblical text and the cultural importance of genealogies in ancient Israel, which were critical for inheritance, tribal identity, and future land distribution. The presence of God's specific instructions for a census, down to the appointed tribal representatives, sets Israel apart from other ancient nations whose numbering often served a ruler's self-glorification or oppressive taxation, highlighting God's purpose of organization for the welfare and readiness of His people. The divine emphasis on order and meticulous planning foreshadows God's orderly character revealed throughout Scripture, from creation to the church, where all things are to be done "decently and in order" (1 Cor 14:40).

Numbers 1 9 Commentary

Numbers 1:9 is a succinct but vital entry in the detailed census of Israel. It showcases the divine precision and order in the structuring of God's people. By naming Eliab, son of Helon, as the leader for the tribe of Zebulun, the verse highlights several crucial aspects of God's relationship with Israel. Firstly, God is meticulous, demanding exactitude and clear identity within His covenant community. There is no anonymity or disarray in God's kingdom; every tribe, every leader, and eventually every family unit is known and accounted for. This structured approach, where even leaders' lineages are carefully noted, was paramount for both military readiness and spiritual discipline in the challenging wilderness journey ahead. It establishes accountability and proper representation within the national framework. The repeated listing of tribal leaders emphasizes their delegated authority, acting under God's command through Moses and Aaron. This system underscored God's omnipresence in their organization and preparedness. The inclusion of the father's name for each leader not only ensured precise identification but also affirmed the continuity of faithful leadership across generations, an ideal for the fledgling nation. This divinely-mandated order provided the foundation for their worship, movement, and future habitation in the Promised Land.