Numbers 26 53

Numbers 26:53 kjv

Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names.

Numbers 26:53 nkjv

"To these the land shall be divided as an inheritance, according to the number of names.

Numbers 26:53 niv

"The land is to be allotted to them as an inheritance based on the number of names.

Numbers 26:53 esv

"Among these the land shall be divided for inheritance according to the number of names.

Numbers 26:53 nlt

"Divide the land among the tribes, and distribute the grants of land in proportion to the tribes' populations, as indicated by the number of names on the list.

Numbers 26 verses

Numbers 26 53 Meaning

This verse states the divine decree for the allocation of the Promised Land: it was to be meticulously divided among the Israelite tribes as a permanent inheritance. The distribution was based on the precise count, or "number of names," gathered in the census recorded earlier in Numbers 26. This ensured a proportional division, granting larger families or tribes bigger portions to sustain them within their ancestral territories.

Numbers 26 53 Context

Numbers chapter 26 records the second census of the Israelites, taken approximately thirty-eight years after the first census at Mount Sinai (Num 1). This census occurred in the plains of Moab, on the cusp of entering the Promised Land. The primary purpose of this numbering was not for military organization, as with the first census, but specifically to determine the basis for distributing the land of Canaan among the tribes. This census only included males twenty years and upward, listed by their clans. Verse 53 follows this enumeration, directly stating the principle for the forthcoming land inheritance, thereby establishing a legal and divine framework for the possession of their God-given homeland for the new generation. Historically, this generation was a direct response to God's judgment on the previous rebellious generation, signifying new hope and the fulfillment of ancient covenant promises.

Numbers 26 53 Word analysis

• To these (לָאֵ֤לֶּה - la'eleh): This Hebrew demonstrative pronoun ("to these") points back to the tribal families and individuals who were meticulously enumerated in the preceding verses of Numbers 26. It signifies that the inheritance is specifically intended for this new generation, ensuring a direct connection between the divine command for the census and the allocation of the promised land to specific, divinely identified recipients. It highlights God's particularity in His plans.
• the land (הָאָ֔רֶץ - ha'aretz): Refers to the land of Canaan, the geographical area God swore to give to Abraham and his descendants as an everlasting possession. This is not just any land but the Promised Land, central to the covenant with Israel, representing God's faithfulness and their ultimate place of rest and identity.
• shall be divided (תֵּֽחָלַק֙ - tekhalaq): From the root chalaq, meaning "to divide," "allot," or "apportion." The verb is in the Niphal stem (passive voice), indicating a divine decree and action – "it shall be divided," emphasizing that God is the primary agent in this distribution. It highlights that the land allotment is not by human caprice but by divine design and command, setting the stage for Joshua's faithful execution of this mandate.
• for inheritance (בְּנַֽחֲלָ֖ה - b'nakhalah): The Hebrew term nachalah is profoundly significant, meaning "inheritance," "possession," or "heritage." It denotes not a temporary grant but a permanent, divinely-secured possession tied to lineage and identity within the covenant. This was vital for establishing each tribe's enduring presence and identity in the land, ensuring generational continuity and economic stability for families. The concept extends metaphorically in Scripture to the believer's spiritual inheritance in Christ (Eph 1:14, Col 1:12).
• according to the number of names (בְּשֵׁמֹ֥ת מִסְפָּֽר׃ - b'shemot mispar): This phrase is critical for understanding the method of distribution. It literally means "by names (of) number" or "according to the number of names."
  • "names" (בְּשֵׁמֹ֥ת - b'shemot): Refers to the individual males (heads of families/clans) counted in the census. It underscores that God knows His people individually and accounts for each family unit.
  • "number" (מִסְפָּֽר - mispar): Signifies the census count, indicating a proportional system of allocation. Larger tribes, having more "names," would receive larger tracts of land to support their greater population, ensuring equitable distribution based on needs and capacity. This demonstrates God's just and ordered provision, avoiding disputes and ensuring tribal self-sufficiency and communal well-being. It underscores God's meticulous care for the practical and socio-economic future of His people.

• "To these the land shall be divided for inheritance": This phrase succinctly expresses the fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promise to give the land. It combines divine action ("shall be divided") with the recipient ("to these") and the purpose ("for inheritance"), highlighting that God's plan is purposeful, targeted, and provides for permanent possession.
• "for inheritance according to the number of names": This further elaborates the nature and method of the division. The phrase underscores two key principles: permanence and proportionality. It links the divine promise of a lasting "nachalah" to a just, demographic-based system, revealing God's orderly character and His care for equity among His people.

Numbers 26 53 Bonus section

This verse subtly refutes any notion of land acquisition by might alone or arbitrary distribution. Instead, it positions God as the sovereign disposer of territories, directly contrasting with common ancient Near Eastern practices of conquest and re-distribution by human rulers. The Hebrew word nachalah (inheritance) carries the profound weight of covenant fidelity and signifies more than just property; it represents identity, blessing, and the enduring presence of God among His people. The meticulous nature of the census and the stated method of distribution highlight God's character of orderliness, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to the well-being and established future of each family and tribe within His covenant community.

Numbers 26 53 Commentary

Numbers 26:53 serves as a pivotal theological and administrative declaration. It formally links the meticulous census data gathered in the plains of Moab to the subsequent divine command for land distribution in Canaan. This verse underscores God's absolute ownership of the land (Lev 25:23), His faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Abraham (Gen 12:7, Exo 6:8), and His methodical approach to establishing His people in their homeland. The principle of distributing land "according to the number of names" reflects God's justice and wisdom, ensuring that each tribal family received a proportional and sustainable portion, fostering both unity and self-sufficiency. It prefigured the orderly life Israel was to lead in the Promised Land under divine blessing, where every family had a place and provision. This also sets a divine precedent for equitable stewardship of God's blessings.