Numbers 31:38 Meaning and Explanation
“And the beeves were thirty and six thousand; of which the LORD's tribute was threescore and twelve.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The soldiers' share of cattle was 36,000, with a tribute of 72 cattle to God.
The Context of Numbers 31:38
Soldiers' cattle: 36,000, with tribute of 72.
What Does Numbers 31:38 Mean?
Continuing the distribution of the soldiers' half: cattle number 36,000. The one-in-five-hundred tribute from this amount yields 72 cattle (36,000 divided by 500). These 72 cattle become God's tribute, given to the priesthood. The cattle, being more valuable than sheep, represent a significant portion of the tribute. The larger animals' importance is reflected in the careful tracking of their division and dedication.
The pattern continues consistently: each category of livestock is divided according to the established ratios. The soldiers retain the substantial remainder while acknowledging God's portion. The arithmetic precision demonstrates administrative competence in managing such large-scale distribution. The variety of livestock—sheep, cattle, donkeys—ensures that God's tribute includes all types of resources captured.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 31:38
What does Numbers 31:38 mean?
The soldiers' share of cattle was 36,000, with a tribute of 72 cattle to God.
What is the context of Numbers 31:38?
Soldiers' cattle: 36,000, with tribute of 72.