
After Class Podcast 3.16 - It's all in the Numbers
Apr 20, 2020
The discussion dives into the biblical census in Exodus, questioning whether Moses led 2 or 3 million people from Egypt. It explores the archaeological implications of such figures and challenges common misconceptions. The hosts unravel the significance of the term 'elef,' hinting it could mean clans, not just thousands. They touch on how ancient communities preserved data through oral traditions. With a nod to gematria, they argue that numbers may carry symbolic rather than literal meanings, inviting listeners to embrace a humble interpretation of faith and history.
47:32
Exodus Numbers Seem Implausible
- The Numbers In Exodus Produce Implausible Population Estimates in ancient context.
- A literal reading yields 600,000 fighting men, implying 2–3 million people which would dominate the ancient Near East.
Elef May Mean Clan Not Thousand
- The Hebrew word elef can mean more than 'thousand' and may denote a clan or military unit.
- If elef = ~100, then 603 elef becomes about 6,000 fighting men, changing the scale dramatically.
Numbers May Be Symbolic Or Calendrical
- Some scholars propose symbolic or calendrical reasons behind census totals.
- Numbers may align with Babylonian calendar figures, suggesting symbolic rather than literal intent.
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Intro
00:00 • 3min
Why Rhett & Link's testimonies matter
02:30 • 41sec
Archaeology, Exodus, and common misconceptions
03:11 • 4min
Would two million Israelites leave a trace?
07:31 • 2min
Counting 600,000: what the Bible says
09:20 • 5min
Elef: thousand or clan?
14:21 • 2min
Numerical symbolism and calendar links
16:00 • 2min
Gematria as a source of census totals
18:22 • 5min
Lost records and retroactive filling
23:28 • 3min
How ancient communities preserved data
26:11 • 2min
Inspiration versus literal census accuracy
28:23 • 2min
Authorship, Moses, and editorial processes
30:39 • 7min
Theological aims shaping the narrative
37:13 • 5min
Oral storytelling and dramatic emphasis
41:43 • 4min
Conclusion: faith, history, and humility
46:09 • 36sec
Outro
46:45 • 24sec

#188
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Deuteronomy
introduction and commentary.


Hubert Cunliffe-Jones
This book by Hubert Cunliffe-Jones offers a comprehensive introduction and commentary on the biblical book of Deuteronomy.
It is part of the Torch Bible Paperbacks series, which aims to provide scholarly yet accessible interpretations of biblical texts.
The commentary delves into the historical, theological, and literary aspects of Deuteronomy, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in biblical studies.

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The book of Revelation


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This book is a detailed commentary on the Book of Revelation, written by Ernest Findlay Scott.
Published in 1940, it provides an in-depth analysis of the biblical text, offering insights into its historical, theological, and literary context.
Scott's work is considered a significant contribution to biblical scholarship, particularly in the field of New Testament studies.

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The book of Samuel


Erik Raschke
The Book of Samuel tells the story of Samuel Gerard, a 12-year-old boy whose life is drastically changed when his father leaves on a religious quest to 'save the world.
' Samuel finds himself on a series of humorous and often chaotic adventures, from dealing with leeches and blowing up his friend's garage to navigating complex social issues like bullying, racism, and community violence.
As Samuel tries to make sense of his world, he faces crossroads of religion, community, family, and friends, ultimately leading to a life-changing decision that tests his courage and understanding of personal sacrifice.

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Numbers
The Fourth Book of the Torah

Moses
The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Torah and follows the Israelites during their 38-year wilderness journey.
It explores themes of obedience, rebellion, and divine mercy, providing crucial insights into the spiritual journey of God's people.
The book includes censuses, priestly instructions, and significant events that foreshadow later biblical narratives.

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The book of Ruth
A Popular Exposition


Samuel Cox
This book is a comprehensive analysis of the Book of Ruth, focusing on the story of Ruth's devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi and her eventual integration into the Hebrew community.
It explores themes such as the power of love to overcome prejudices, the virtues of Ruth that earned her respect and admiration, and the religious significance of her story.
The exposition emphasizes Ruth's self-sacrificing affection for Naomi and her faith in the God of Israel, illustrating how natural affection can lead to a deeper religious commitment.

#103
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Exodus


Leon Uris
The novel 'Exodus' by Leon Uris is a historical fiction account that explores the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948.
It follows the stories of Jewish refugees, many of whom are Holocaust survivors, as they attempt to reach Palestine despite British opposition.
The book delves into the back stories of its characters, the history of Jewish settlement in Palestine, and the broader political context of the time, including the struggle for independence and the conflicts between Jewish and Arab populations.

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Book of Esther

Thomas Publications
The Book of Esther is a historical fiction narrative set in the Persian court during the fifth century BCE. It tells the story of Esther, a Jewish maiden who becomes the wife of King Xerxes and risks her life to save the Jewish people from annihilation.
The book explains the origin of the Jewish feast of Purim and highlights God's providential care for His people even in exile.
The story includes themes of divine intervention, courage, and the tension between Jews and Gentiles.

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Joshua


Georg Ebers
This historical novel by Georg Ebers is set in ancient Israel and follows the story of Joshua, who succeeds Moses.
The narrative explores the period of the Exodus and the experiences of Hosea, a commander in Pharaoh's army who is also a Hebrew, as he returns home from war and navigates the complexities of his dual identity and the historical events unfolding around him.

#1442
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Book of Judges


Anonymous (Biblical text)
The Book of Judges recounts the history of Israel from the death of Joshua to the birth of Samuel, detailing cycles of sin, oppression, and deliverance through judges appointed by God. It explores themes of faithfulness, mercy, and the consequences of turning away from divine guidance.

#367
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Leviticus

Noth, Martin
Leviticus details the laws and regulations given to the Israelites through Moses, focusing on ritual purity, sacrifices, and priestly duties.
It outlines the procedures for various offerings and the consequences of violating God's commands.
The book emphasizes the importance of holiness and the separation of the sacred from the profane.
Leviticus provides insights into the Israelite religious system and its significance in their relationship with God. The book's laws and regulations offer a glimpse into the cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel.

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Genesis
Artificial Intelligence, Hope, and the Human Spirit


Craig Mundie


Eric Schmidt


Henry A. Kissinger
In this book, Henry A. Kissinger, Eric Schmidt, and Craig Mundie explore the epochal challenges and opportunities presented by the revolution in Artificial Intelligence.
AI is seen as a force that can address enormous crises such as climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and income inequality, while also posing significant challenges to human judgment, divine relationships, and potentially spurring a new phase in human evolution.
The authors chart a course between blind faith and unjustified fear, offering an accessible guide to how AI will shape civilization in the modern era.

#3591
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Book of Luke


Larry Richards


Joyce Gibson
This book is part of The Smart Guide to the Bible series and offers a detailed and practical study of the Book of Genesis.
It includes relevant helps and insights on each page to enhance Bible study and understanding of the first book of the Bible.

#5068
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The Book of Ecclesiastes


Unknown, traditionally attributed to King Solomon
The Book of Ecclesiastes is a part of the Hebrew Wisdom Literature that delves into the meaning of life and human existence.
It questions the doctrine of retributive justice and observes that human endeavors, wealth, power, and pleasures are ultimately fleeting and meaningless without a divine perspective.
The book is structured around the refrain 'Vanity of vanities All is vanity!
' and emphasizes the importance of fearing God and keeping His commandments as the foundation of true happiness and purpose.
It also reflects on the limitations of human wisdom, the inevitability of death, and the transience of life, advising readers to enjoy the good things God provides while they can.
The series continues! The guys offer some more answers to the issues raised in Rhett and Link's "anti"-testimonies. This week's episode deals with the numbers in the Exodus census account. Did Moses bring 2 or 3 million people out of Egypt and into the land of Canaan? Does it matter if the numbers aren't 100% accurate by today's standards?
