Objective 2: Clarify the function and role of the census in Numbers.
A census is an important part of society, though it is not necessarily the easiest to read in a book format. The census that we find in Numbers is not just a tally of the men and women of Israel, but it has a specific purpose within the story of Israel, as well as in the Pentateuch. Once you determine this purpose, you will never read the book of Numbers in the same way again.
Learning Activity #3: Role of Census Paper
Write a 1-2 page reflection on the value and purpose of the census in Numbers.
To achieve maximum points for content and analysis, the following elements need to be thoroughly addressed.
How many people made up the Israelite population?
Is this more or less than you had imagined?
Why was it important for the leaders of Israel to get a count of the men 20 years old and up or the total number of women in the camp?
What coming event might have been the impetus to take a count of who was in the camp?
Provide at least one source. If you cite a dictionary it will be in addition to the required source. The Bible is not to be listed on the References page, but does have to be cited in-text.
Use the Paper Writing rubric provided in the syllabus to ensure you have met all of the criteria.
Submit the completed paper to your facilitator as an attachment in the drop box titled Role of the Census Paper.
