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Numbers 11:16

And the LORD said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation, that they may stand there with thee.

Numbers 11:16 · King James Version

Meaning

God instructed Moses to gather seventy elders from the Israelites to assist in the leadership and governance of the community. These elders were chosen for their wisdom, experience, and trustworthiness. By bringing them to the tabernacle, which was a place where the Israelites gathered to worship and seek guidance from God, Moses was symbolically demonstrating that these elders would serve alongside him in carrying out God's will. The presence of these elders at the tabernacle with Moses also emphasized the importance of shared leadership and collaboration in the community. Additionally, by involving the elders in decision-making and governance, God was ensuring that the leadership of the Israelites was representative and inclusive of the entire community. This verse highlights the principles of respect for age, wisdom, and communal decision-making that were essential in the formation and maintenance of the Israelite society under God's guidance.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Lord commands Moses to gather seventy elders of Israel to assist him in governing and leading the people. This act of delegation highlights the importance of shared leadership and the value of wise counsel in making decisions. The word "elders" in this context refers to those who are respected and experienced in their community, making them suitable candidates to help Moses in his role as a leader. By bringing these elders to the tabernacle of the congregation, Moses is emphasizing the significance of communal worship and seeking divine guidance as a collective body. The presence of these elders with Moses symbolizes unity and collaboration in serving God and his people. This verse underscores the biblical principle of seeking counsel from wise individuals and working together in leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of humility and reliance on God's wisdom.

Numbers 11:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with thee.

World English Bible

Yahweh said to Moses, “Gather to me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them to the Tent of Meeting, that they may stand there with you.

Douay-Rheims

And the Lord said to Moses: Gather unto me seventy men of the ancients of Israel, whom thou knowest to be ancients and masters of the people: and thou shalt bring them to the door of the tabernacle of the covenant, and shalt make them stand there with thee,

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the Lord said vnto Moses, Gather vnto me seuetie men of ye Elders of Israel, whome thou knowest, that they are the Elders of the people, and gouernonrs ouer them, and bring them vnto the Tabernacle of the Congregation, and let them stand there with thee,