numbers

That the Hebrews were able to count is clear because David held a census (1 Chron. 21), though the number of a million (1 Chron. 21:5, NRSV, REB) or even eleven hundred thousand (NJB) warriors is exaggerated. Calculations were made in tens (based on the number of fingers on the hands), but certain numbers had a special significance beyond the purely arithmetical; one, for the unity of God; seven (being the days of creation) signified completeness; and forty was the period of a generation and signified a large span of time. In the NT and afterwards other numerals became important: one and eight (cf. Luke 9:28) as being the first day of the week when Jesus was raised from the dead. Seven remains important, as does seventy: seventy preachers are sent out (Luke 10:1); Peter is to forgive seventy times seven (Matt. 18:22); seven assistants are appointed by the apostles (Acts 6). Seven Churches are addressed (Rev. 1:3). Twelve [[➝ Twelve, the]] is also important as a symbol in the NT, as corresponding to the twelve tribes of Israel (Luke 22:30).