The tribe of Asher illustrates God’s sustaining hand, multiplying them from generation to generation as they played their part in the tapestry of Israel.
“These are the families of the sons of Asher according to those who were numbered of them: 53,400.” (v.47) In this verse, the Suzerain (Ruler) God provides a specific count for the tribe of Asher in the second census recorded in Numbers 26. The total is 53,400 men, a growth from the 41,500 counted during the first census in Numbers 1 (Numbers 1:41). Asher was the second son of Leah’s handmaid Zilpah (Genesis 30:12-13), whose name means “happy one,” reflecting the joy expressed when he was born. This tribe, situated in the northern regions of Israel near the Mediterranean coast, benefited from fertile land and coastal trade, but also faced the temptation of coastal influences and conflicts.
By noting 53,400 men of Asher, Scripture underscores God’s ongoing faithfulness to preserve and grow the tribe over time. Asher became associated with prosperity, in part due to their land’s rich olive groves and sea-based commerce. Historically, Moses pronounced a special blessing on Asher in Deuteronomy 33:24-25, promising abundance and security. Even centuries later, Luke 2:36 mentions Anna the prophetess, who came from this tribe, tying Asher’s lineage into the New Testament story of redemption.
Though often overshadowed by larger or more famous tribes, Asher’s consistent presence and numerical growth convey God’s care and provision for each segment of His covenant people.
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Numbers 26:47 meaning
“These are the families of the sons of Asher according to those who were numbered of them: 53,400.” (v.47) In this verse, the Suzerain (Ruler) God provides a specific count for the tribe of Asher in the second census recorded in Numbers 26. The total is 53,400 men, a growth from the 41,500 counted during the first census in Numbers 1 (Numbers 1:41). Asher was the second son of Leah’s handmaid Zilpah (Genesis 30:12-13), whose name means “happy one,” reflecting the joy expressed when he was born. This tribe, situated in the northern regions of Israel near the Mediterranean coast, benefited from fertile land and coastal trade, but also faced the temptation of coastal influences and conflicts.
By noting 53,400 men of Asher, Scripture underscores God’s ongoing faithfulness to preserve and grow the tribe over time. Asher became associated with prosperity, in part due to their land’s rich olive groves and sea-based commerce. Historically, Moses pronounced a special blessing on Asher in Deuteronomy 33:24-25, promising abundance and security. Even centuries later, Luke 2:36 mentions Anna the prophetess, who came from this tribe, tying Asher’s lineage into the New Testament story of redemption.
Though often overshadowed by larger or more famous tribes, Asher’s consistent presence and numerical growth convey God’s care and provision for each segment of His covenant people.