The Second Census: Chapter 26 begins the journey of a new generation, which provides a trajectory of hope for the last chapters of the book. This new generation would provide an important analogy for the generation returning from exile in the day of the Priestly tradents. These chapters look forward to settled life and peace, not death. Chapter 26 recounts a census of this new generation.

26:1–4 Following the plague in chapter 25, God instructs Moses and Eleazar to take a census of the whole Israelite community by families. Eleazar has now assumed the position of Aaron, his father, as high priest. In a clear parallel to Numbers 1, the new generation of those twenty years old or more are to be counted for military service in preparation for entering the land. So the second census takes place…