Numbers

the fourth book of the law or Pentateuch. It takes its name in the LXX. and Vulgate (whence our “Numbers”) from the double numbering or census of the people, the first of which is given in chs. 1-4, and the second in ch. 28. Contents .—The book may be said to contain generally the history of the Israelites from the time of their leaving Sinai, in the second year after the exodus till their arrival at the borders of the Promised land in the fortieth year of their journeyings It consists of the following principal divisions: 1, The Preparations for the departure from Sinai. (Numbers 1:1; Numbers 10:10)

NUMBERS, BOOK OF, the fourth book of Moses, and so called on account of the two censuses to which it refers. It gives some detached legal enactments and many valuable historical facts. In the first division, chs. 1-10:10, an account is given of the preparations for the departure from Sinai. In ch. 6 we have the, description of the Nazarite's vow. The second division, ch. 10:11-14, contains an account of the journey from Sinai to the borders of Canaan. In chs. 13 and 14 the spies are mentioned by name, and a most interesting description is given of their discoveries in Canaan, their return to the camp, and the treatment they received. The third division, chs. 15-19, gives various legal enactments and a few historical facts. The last division, chs. 20-36, contains an account of the events of the last year before crossing the Jordan. In ch. 20 we have the description of Moses smiting the rock and the notices of Miriam's and Aaron's deaths. In ch. 21 we have a picture of the discontentment and rebellion of the Israelites, their punishment through fiery serpents, and the simple remedy of a brazen serpent erected on a pole. Comp. John 3:14-15. Chs. 22-24 are concerned with Balaam, In ch. 32 the land east of the Jordan is assigned to Reuben and Gad, and in ch. 33 a list is given of the various stations in the wilderness.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

of Number. The fourth book of the Pentateuch, containing the census of the Hebrews.