Numbers 11:26
But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.
Numbers 11:26 · King James Version
Meaning
Within the context of the Bible, this verse describes the account of Eldad and Medad, who were two of the men chosen by Moses to help with the leadership of the Israelites. Despite being part of the group selected, Eldad and Medad did not go out to the tabernacle along with the others. However, the spirit of God still rested upon them, and they were able to prophesy in the camp. This passage illustrates that God's spirit is not limited to a specific place or setting, but can work through individuals wherever they may be. It also serves as a reminder that God's plans are not always bound by human expectations or traditions. The story of Eldad and Medad highlights the idea that God can use anyone, regardless of their circumstances or actions, to fulfill his purposes and share his message with the world.
Theological Overview
On this verse, there is theological significance in the fact that Eldad and Medad, two individuals who were not among the designated leaders chosen to prophesy, were still given the spirit of prophecy and began prophesying in the camp. This highlights the fact that God's spirit is not limited to a select few, but can work through anyone He chooses. It also emphasizes the idea that God's power is not confined to a particular place or structure like the tabernacle, but can manifest itself wherever His people are. This event serves as a reminder that God's presence and power are not restricted by human limitations or expectations, but can work in unexpected ways and through unexpected individuals.
Numbers 11:26 in other translations
American Standard Version
But there remained two men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but had not gone out unto the Tent; and they prophesied in the camp.
World English Bible
But two men remained in the camp. The name of one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested on them; and they were of those who were written, but had not gone out to the Tent; and they prophesied in the camp.
Douay-Rheims
Now there remained in the camp two of the men, of whom one was called Eldad, and the other Medad, upon whom the spirit rested; for they also had been enrolled, but were not gone forth to the tabernacle.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But there remained two of the men in the hoste: the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad, and the Spirit rested vpon them, (for they were of them that were written, and went not out vnto the Tabernacle) and they prophecied in the hoste.