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Book of Numbers - Chapter 1 - Verse 39

1:39
Those that were numbered of them, even of the tribe of Dan, were threescore and two thousand and seven hundred.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers in the Bible, the tribe of Dan is counted among the twelve tribes of Israel. The counting of the tribes was crucial for various reasons, such as organizing the people for war, assigning territory during the early days of settlement in Canaan, and determining the priesthood and religious responsibilities. The specific number given for the tribe of Dan, sixty-two thousand and seven hundred, reflects the size and strength of this particular tribe. Each tribe had its unique characteristics and roles within the community, and the numerical count helped establish the order and organization of the Israelites as they journeyed through the wilderness and settled in the Promised Land. The tribe of Dan played a significant role throughout Israel's history, and its numerical count highlighted its importance within the larger community of God's chosen people.

Theological Overview

In the book of Numbers, chapter 1 verse 39, we find the tally of the tribe of Dan during the military census conducted by Moses. The tribe of Dan is noted to have 62,700 able-bodied men ready for battle. This numerical figure can be seen as more than just a record of manpower; it can also be viewed from a theological perspective. The number 62,700 can be seen as significant in biblical symbolism – 6 being the number of man, and 7 representing completion or perfection in the Bible. Therefore, the specific count of 62,700 men from the tribe of Dan can be interpreted as a symbol of the tribe's readiness and completeness in fulfilling their military duties. This interpretation adds depth and layers of meaning to what may first appear as a mere headcount, showing how even the seemingly mundane details in the Bible can carry rich theological significance.

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