Numbers 31:49 Meaning and Explanation
“And they said unto Moses, Thy servants have taken the sum of the men of war which are under our charge, and there lacketh not one man of us.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The officers report that they have accounted for all soldiers and none are missing.
The Context of Numbers 31:49
No soldiers were killed in the campaign.
What Does Numbers 31:49 Mean?
The officers bring remarkable news: they have conducted a complete count of the soldiers under their command, and every single soldier survives. Despite the extensive combat against Midian—where the Midianites were entirely defeated—Israel's 12,000 warriors suffered zero casualties. This is an extraordinary outcome in ancient warfare, where losses were typically expected even in victorious campaigns. The officers' formal report emphasizes the completeness of the victory and the absence of any losses among Israel's forces.
This miraculous preservation of all soldiers reinforces the narrative's emphasis on God's direction and blessing. The absence of losses demonstrates divine favor and validates that God commanded this campaign. The officers' summary demonstrates military organization and accountability. The fact that such a report is made formally to Moses underscores its significance and ensures that all Israel recognizes God's extraordinary protection of those who fight under His direction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 31:49
What does Numbers 31:49 mean?
The officers report that they have accounted for all soldiers and none are missing.
What is the context of Numbers 31:49?
No soldiers were killed in the campaign.