23/04/17 황창연 신부 성경특강 민수기 26강 : 두번째 인구조사

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the exciting world of biblical exploration! We're not just studying the Bible; I've had the privilege of diving deep into this remarkable journey. It's one thing to learn it academically and personally meditate on its verses, but it's an entirely different experience when you embark on a journey to understand the culture, history, and the profound questions it raises.

As a priest who has led pilgrimages to Israel, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, Greece, and even Rome multiple times, I've had the chance to witness the breathtaking diversity of this ancient scripture. It's like having your perspective shattered into a kaleidoscope of knowledge, and I couldn't keep it to myself. So, I thought, why not share this extraordinary journey with my fellow believers?

When I had the opportunity to teach a 24-part series on biblical exploration at my church, I was amazed by the enthusiasm and reception it received from the congregation. But then, COVID-19 came knocking at our doors, and I thought, "Why sit idly when we can chew the Bible and truly grasp its wisdom and messages?"

I took on the challenge of exploring the Bible, from Genesis to the Psalms, and even the Book of Revelations. Our church members joined me on this incredible quest, and I must say, it's been a challenging but immensely rewarding experience.

The Second Census: A Glimpse into Biblical Mathematics

In the Book of Numbers, we come across the second census of the Israelites. The first one was taken when they were about to embark on their journey out of Egypt, but now, 40 years have passed, and they're on the brink of entering Canaan, the Promised Land.

The population has shifted; some tribes have grown, others have dwindled. Take, for instance, the tribe of Reuben, which had 46,500 members during the first census but now stands at 43,730. It's a stark reminder of the challenges they faced during their desert sojourn, including a rebellion against Moses, which resulted in devastating consequences.

The Weight of Numbers: Significance of Tribe Sizes

The census unveils some intriguing patterns. The tribe of Judah, for instance, has grown to a staggering 76,500 members, making it the most populous. This tribe's significance becomes evident in the future, as it leads to the lineage of David and Solomon, eventually culminating in the birth of Jesus.

The tribes of Gad and Asher, on the other hand, have decreased in numbers, emphasizing the challenges faced during their desert wanderings. Their descendants eventually assimilate into other tribes, and this process of integration is a testament to the dynamism and fluidity within the Israelite community.

The Levites: A Special Calling

Among the tribes, the Levites hold a unique place. They are not included in the general census for inheritance but rather have a special calling to serve in the sanctuary. This division is an essential aspect of the biblical narrative, signifying the spiritual role the Levites play.

Aaron's descendants, the priests, play a central part in the spiritual life of the community. It's through the line of Aaron that we have notable biblical figures like Moses, Aaron, and even John the Baptist in the New Testament.

A Glimpse into the Future: Promised Inheritance

While the census may appear to be a mere numerical exercise, it sets the stage for the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. Each tribe is allocated land according to their size, ensuring an equitable distribution of inheritance.

But here's the twist: they use lots to decide which territory goes to which tribe. It's a random and equitable distribution, emphasizing the divine hand in guiding their journey. And this brings us back to the excitement of exploring the Bible – there's always a deeper layer to discover, and it's far from a mundane read.

So, as we conclude this second census, it's not just about counting numbers. It's a profound journey into the heart of a community that persevered through trials and tribulations, where numbers tell a story of resilience, growth, and destiny.

The Bible is an awe-inspiring tapestry of history, faith, and humanity's journey. The next time you read it, take a moment to ponder the intricacies of these censuses and the profound lessons they hold. After all, every page in the Bible has more to offer than meets the eye, and it's our privilege to unveil these hidden treasures.

As we continue our voyage through this extraordinary book, we'll keep unearthing its mysteries, one chapter at a time. So, fasten your seatbelts, dear readers, and get ready for a biblical adventure like no other. This is just the beginning!