Numbers 34 25

Numbers 34:25 kjv

And the prince of the tribe of the children of Zebulun, Elizaphan the son of Parnach.

Numbers 34:25 nkjv

a leader from the tribe of the children of Zebulun, Elizaphan the son of Parnach;

Numbers 34:25 niv

Elizaphan son of Parnak, the leader from the tribe of Zebulun;

Numbers 34:25 esv

Of the tribe of the people of Zebulun a chief, Elizaphan the son of Parnach.

Numbers 34:25 nlt

Zebulun ? Elizaphan son of Parnach

Numbers 34 verses

Numbers 34 25 Meaning

This verse specifies that Kemuel, the son of Shiphtan, was chosen to represent the tribe of Simeon as one of the twelve divinely appointed leaders responsible for overseeing the precise and equitable distribution of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel, as commanded by the Lord. This appointment was crucial for the orderly settlement and establishment of God's covenant people in their promised inheritance.

Numbers 34 25 Context

Numbers chapter 34 meticulously records the divine instructions given to Moses regarding the precise division of the promised land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel. This chapter is embedded within a larger narrative detailing Israel's journeys and preparations for entry into their inheritance. Verses 1-12 specifically delineate the exact geographical boundaries of the land, establishing its extensive reach as promised by God. Verses 16-29, where verse 25 is situated, list the specific leaders appointed by God from each of the twelve tribes—acting alongside Eleazar the priest and Joshua—who were commissioned to oversee this monumental task. The appointment of these particular men, including Kemuel for Simeon, emphasizes the importance of an orderly, fair, and divinely sanctioned distribution. This rigorous process was essential for establishing Israel as a settled nation, with each tribe having a clear identity and stake in the promised land, thereby faithfully fulfilling God's covenant promises.

Numbers 34 25 Word analysis

• And (וְ - ve): A conjunctive particle linking this verse to the preceding sequence. It indicates the continuation of the list of divinely appointed leaders for each tribe, signifying the next entry in a systematic record.
• of the tribe (לְמַטֵּה - lᵉmaṭṭêh): Derived from the Hebrew word for "staff" or "rod," symbolically referring to a distinct tribal division or lineage. It signifies that the individual named is the official representative specifically designated for this particular tribal group.
• of Simeon (שִׁמְעוֹן - Shim‘on): One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Jacob's second son. The tribe of Simeon experienced significant challenges, notably a reduction in size and dispersion (Gen 49:5-7, Num 26:14). Historically, their inheritance would later be situated within the larger territory of Judah (Josh 19:1-9), making their designated representative critical for securing their portion.
• Kemuel (קְמוּאֵל - Qᵉmû’êl): A personal name meaning "assembly of God," "congregation of God," or "God has risen." This name carries a poignant significance in the context of these men assembling under God’s directive for the profound work of establishing the nation, hinting at a divine mandate and presence in their gathering and actions. The name appears elsewhere in genealogies (Gen 22:21; 1 Chr 27:17).
• the son of (בֶּן - ben): A common Hebrew term denoting paternal lineage. In ancient Israelite society, one's identity, social standing, tribal affiliation, and inheritance rights were inextricably linked to one's patrilineal descent, highlighting a structured and genealogical society.
• Shiphtan (שִׁפְטָן - Shiphṭān): A personal name meaning "judgment" or "one who judges." The father's name potentially suggests a familial background associated with legal decisions, fairness, or discernment. This resonates well with the nature of the task Kemuel was appointed for – distributing land fairly.

Numbers 34 25 Bonus section

The act of selecting a distinct leader from each tribe for the land division reinforced the individual identity and corporate responsibility of each tribal unit within the emerging nation of Israel. The joint involvement of Eleazar the high priest and Joshua the military commander alongside these twelve tribal representatives symbolized a crucial integration of spiritual and civil authority over this foundational national undertaking. This intricate system was designed to ensure both divine sanction and practical, fair administration, laying a precedent for structured governance in the Promised Land. The inclusion of tribes like Simeon, which had a diminished population and a prophesied scattering (Gen 49:7), and would inherit territory within Judah’s allotment (Josh 19:1-9), demonstrates God's consistent provision for all His people, ensuring no part of His covenant family was overlooked in their rightful inheritance. This level of detail in the text highlights the collective and interconnected identity of Israel, where each tribe was indispensable to the unified realization of God’s plan.

Numbers 34 25 Commentary

Numbers 34:25, though seemingly a simple administrative entry, carries profound significance within the biblical narrative. It underscores God's meticulous faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promise to give the land of Canaan to Israel. The selection of specific, divinely appointed leaders like Kemuel for the tribe of Simeon demonstrates an emphasis on divine order, precision, and equitable justice in the land distribution. This wasn't merely a logistical exercise; it was a sacred act overseen by chosen representatives who ensured that each tribe, even those with challenges like Simeon, received its designated, God-given inheritance. It reinforces the biblical principle that God governs both grand, sweeping historical movements and the specific, minute details required for the realization of His divine purposes. This commitment to orderly process reflects God's character and provides a foundation for Israel's future national and communal life in the Promised Land.