The number 31 in the Bible is not widely discussed, yet it carries significant symbolic meaning within the biblical narrative and Hebrew numerology. While the Bible often emphasizes the meaning of numbers like 7, 12, 40, and 3, the number 31 stands out for its connections to divine intervention, completion, and leadership in key Old Testament stories.
This article explores the biblical significance of the number 31, drawing upon various scriptural references, theological interpretations, and cultural insights to help you understand its deeper meaning. Here, we’ll answer questions such as: What does 31 symbolize in the Bible? Is it a number of victory, leadership, or something else?
Biblical References to the Number 31
While the number 31 does not appear in as many places as other numbers, there are some important instances that help us understand its biblical symbolism.
1. The Battle of the Kings (Joshua 10:16–27)
One of the most prominent references to the number 31 in the Bible comes from the Book of Joshua. After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they faced a series of military confrontations with the Canaanite kings. In Joshua 10:16-27, the Israelites engage in battle with a coalition of kings led by King Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem. The victory that Joshua and the Israelites achieved is significant, as they destroyed 31 kings during the campaign. This number is noted as the total number of kings defeated by the Israelites in their conquest of the Promised Land.
Joshua 12:24 reinforces this victory by listing these 31 kings defeated by the Israelites. The complete defeat signifies the triumph of God‘s will over the nations that opposed Israel’s divine inheritance. In this context, 31 symbolizes divine victory and God’s deliverance.
Takeaway: In the context of Joshua, the number 31 is associated with victory, conquest, and the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel. The defeat of these 31 kings demonstrates the completeness of God’s judgment and the fulfillment of His plan for the Israelites’ inheritance of the land.
2. The Legacy of King David and His 31-Year Reign (2 Samuel 5:4-5)
Another biblical reference to the number 31 is connected to King David, one of the most significant figures in biblical history. According to 2 Samuel 5:4-5, King David reigned for 40 years, and in Hebron he ruled for seven years before becoming king of all of Israel in Jerusalem. After his reign in Hebron, David ruled for an additional 33 years over Israel, bringing the total to 40 years. While the exact mention of the number 31 does not occur in this passage, the association with David’s reign and leadership in Israel can be considered symbolic of completeness, as his reign reflects God’s providence in leadership, protection, and guidance.
David’s reign was instrumental in the development of Israel as a united kingdom under God’s favor. The number 31 here indirectly points to God’s anointing of leadership and the fullness of His rule.
Takeaway: The reign of David, which links to the number 31 as part of his total reign period, represents God’s chosen leadership, victory, and divine providence over Israel.
3. The Numbers of The Israelites’ Tribes
Although the number 31 is not often directly associated with the tribes of Israel, there are references to numbered lists of the Israelites, such as census counts in Numbers 26. In these censuses, numbers often serve as a representation of God’s order and divine plans for His people. The number 31, in this sense, can be viewed as a reminder of God’s order and His careful preparation for the future of Israel.
The Symbolism of the Number 31 in Biblical Numerology
Biblical numerology is the study of numbers as they relate to biblical meaning. Though the number 31 itself is not explicitly highlighted in the Bible, understanding its components and related themes can deepen our understanding.
Three (3): The number three in biblical symbolism represents completeness, divine perfection, and the manifestation of God. For example, God’s presence in the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) signifies divine perfection and completeness. The inclusion of 3 in the number 31 can point to the wholeness of God’s involvement in human affairs.
One (1): The number one often represents unity and the oneness of God. It signifies the singular, sovereign power of God. The number 31 could be seen as a reminder of God’s ultimate unity and singular purpose in His dealings with His people.
Therefore, the number 31 might symbolize divine unity, victory, and the completeness of God’s sovereign power. It may be interpreted as a reminder that God’s will is complete and will come to fruition through divine action.
What Does the Number 31 Mean for Christians Today?
While the number 31 is not explicitly symbolic in the way that numbers like 7 or 12 are in Christian theology, its use in the context of victory and God’s complete control over history offers lessons for Christians today.
God’s Victory: The mention of 31 kings defeated in Joshua teaches that God can bring victory over all forces of evil, no matter how powerful they appear. Christians can find comfort in the understanding that God is in control of all things and will ensure that His purposes are fulfilled.
Completeness in God’s Plan: Just as the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land was brought to completion with the defeat of 31 kings, Christians can trust that God’s plan for their lives is complete and will come to fruition. The number 31 can be a symbol of trusting in God’s providence to bring about His perfect will.
Divine Leadership: The connection to King David’s reign reinforces the idea that God appoints leaders, and His leadership is without fail. Christians can be assured that God leads His people and that His leadership is always perfect.
Conclusion
While the number 31 is not frequently mentioned in the Bible, its significance is profound when understood in the context of key biblical events. The victory over 31 kings in Joshua illustrates the completeness of God’s power, His victory over evil, and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The number 31 in connection with King David’s reign symbolizes the fullness of God’s leadership over His people. Together, these references point to the completeness, sovereignty, and victory of God.
For those who seek deeper spiritual meaning, the number 31 can serve as a reminder of God’s complete control over history and His ability to lead His people to victory and fulfillment.
You Might Be Interested In:
