Definition: Take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel, from twenty years old and upward, throughout their fathersâ house, all that are able to go to war in Israel.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 26:2. It's a pretty significant passage about the Israelites’ future military service. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “We need to count every child of Israel, from the age of twenty years old and up, who are able to go into battle in Israel.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Take the sum…” : This is a very specific instruction. It’s not just about knowing some people; it’s about finding everyone who is capable of fighting. “…of all the children of Israel…” : This refers to all the Israelites – the people God chose to be his chosen people. It's a broad statement. “…from twenty years old and upward…” : This establishes a clear age range. They’re counting anyone who is at least 20 years old. “…through their fathers’ house…” : This is the crucial part! "Their fathers’ house" means all of Israel’s descendants – all the children born within that family line. It's a way of saying they need to include everyone who shares a common ancestor, regardless of where they were born. “…all that are able to go to war in Israel.” : This is the core message. It means every single person – including men, women, and children – who are physically capable of fighting for the nation of Israel is included in this count. Why was this verse important? This verse is a crucial part of God's plan to establish a strong military force for Israel. It’s a way for God to ensure that he has a reliable army to defend his people and fulfill his promises. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from this passage? Discuss the significance of this verse within the larger context of the Old Testament?