Biblical Meaning Of 28

Numbers hold symbolic meanings in the Bible, and the number 28 is no exception. Throughout the Scriptures, numbers are often used to convey spiritual messages and provide deeper insights into God’s plan. In this article, we will explore the biblical meaning of the number 28 and its significance in various contexts.

The Number 28 in the Bible

The number 28 is derived from the combination of the numbers 2 and 8. To fully grasp its meaning, we need to examine the individual symbolism of these two numbers.

1. The Number 2: In biblical symbolism, the number 2 represents witness, testimony, and partnership. It often signifies a divine confirmation or validation of God’s truth. It can also represent the duality and balance in creation, such as day and night, male and female.
2. The Number 8: The number 8 in the Bible is associated with new beginnings, resurrection, and regeneration. It signifies a fresh start and the completion of a cycle. The eighth day is often considered a day of consecration and new beginnings.

Combining these symbolic meanings, the number 28 carries the significance of partnership, witness, and a fresh start. It represents a divine testimony or confirmation leading to new beginnings.

The Significance of 28 in Scripture

1. Completion of a Cycle: In the Bible, the number 28 is often associated with the completion of a significant cycle or period. For example, the menstrual cycle of a woman is typically 28 days, symbolizing the completion of one cycle before the start of a new one.
2. The Consecration of Priests: In Exodus 29, the consecration of the priests lasted for seven days, and on the eighth day, they were fully set apart for their sacred duties. This eight-day period reflects the completion of the process and the beginning of their service to God.
3. The Reign of King David: According to biblical chronology, King David reigned over Israel for 40 years. Interestingly, his son Solomon, who succeeded him, also ruled for 40 years. When we add these two periods together (David’s 40 years and Solomon’s 40 years), we get a total of 80 years, which is 2 times 40. This combination of 40 and 40 equates to the number 80, which is divisible by 28.
4. The Genealogy of Jesus: In the Gospel of Matthew, the genealogy of Jesus is divided into three sets of 14 generations. When we multiply 14 by 2, we get 28. This repetition of 14 and the resulting 28 emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ lineage and His role as the Messiah.

The Significance of 28 in Biblical Numerology

1. Divine Confirmation and Witness: The number 28 in biblical numerology signifies divine confirmation and witness. It is a symbol of God’s validation and testimony to His truth and promises. Throughout the Bible, we see instances where God confirms His Word through various means, including numerical patterns.
2. Spiritual Partnership and Unity: The number 28 also represents spiritual partnership and unity. It signifies the importance of coming together in faith and working harmoniously towards a common goal. In Christianity, believers are called to be united as one body, with Christ as the head. The number 28 reminds us of the significance of collaboration and cooperation in fulfilling God’s purposes.
3. The Day of Resurrection: The number 28 holds a connection to the concept of resurrection. In the Old Testament, the eighth day marked the completion of the purification process and the beginning of a new phase. In the New Testament, Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week, which can be considered the eighth day, symbolizing a new beginning and victory over death. Therefore, the number 28 carries the message of resurrection and new life in Christ.
4. Spiritual Renewal and Transformation: Another aspect of the biblical meaning of 28 is spiritual renewal and transformation. It represents a time of change, growth, and spiritual development. Just as a woman’s menstrual cycle signifies a renewal of life, the number 28 reminds us of the importance of continuous renewal and transformation in our spiritual journey.
5. Divine Appointments and Set Times: In the Bible, certain events and appointments were designated for specific periods, often in multiples of seven. The number 28, being divisible by seven, can represent such divine appointments and set times. It indicates God’s perfect timing and orchestration of events in our lives.
6. A Call to Surrender and Trust: The significance of 28 in biblical numerology can also be seen as a call to surrender and trust in God. It reminds us to rely on His timing and guidance, even when we face challenges or uncertainties. By surrendering our plans and trusting in God’s divine plan, we can experience His transformative power and walk in His purposes.

The Symbolic Representation of 28 in Biblical Events

1. The Ark and the Great Flood: In the story of Noah’s Ark, the flood lasted for 40 days and 40 nights. After the floodwaters receded, Noah and his family remained in the ark for an additional 7 days before stepping onto dry land. The combination of 40 and 7 equates to 47, which is divisible by 28. This suggests that the number 28 signifies the completion of a period of trial and the beginning of a new era of restoration and covenant.
2. The Israelites’ Journey to the Promised Land: The book of Numbers records the Israelites’ 40-year journey through the wilderness before entering the Promised Land. This period of wandering and testing symbolizes a cycle of completion and preparation. When we divide the 40 years into two segments of 28 years and 12 years, we observe the significance of the number 28 in marking a significant stage of the Israelites’ journey towards their ultimate destination.
3. The Life of King Saul: King Saul, the first king of Israel, reigned for 40 years. However, his reign was divided into two periods: 28 years in his initial reign and 12 years during his decline and eventual death. This division highlights the importance of the number 28 in representing a significant phase in the life and rule of King Saul.
4. The Ministry of Jesus: Jesus Christ began His ministry at the age of 30 and continued for approximately 3 and a half years. When we divide the duration of His ministry into two segments, we get approximately 28 months for the first half and around 17 months for the second half. This division suggests that the number 28 represents a crucial period in Jesus’ ministry, marking the transition from the beginning to the fulfillment of His earthly mission.
5. The Feast of Tabernacles: The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as the Feast of Booths or Sukkot, is celebrated for a duration of 7 days. However, according to Jewish tradition, an eighth day, called Shemini Atzeret, follows the feast. This eighth day is considered a separate, distinct day of celebration, indicating a new beginning. The inclusion of the eighth day aligns with the significance of the number 28 in symbolizing the completion of a sacred period and the beginning of a fresh phase.
6. The Book of Revelation: In the book of Revelation, the number 28 appears indirectly through its connection to the number 4 (2 + 8 = 10; 1 + 0 = 1). The number 4 represents completeness and represents the four corners of the earth or the four elements. This suggests that the number 28, derived from 4, signifies the ultimate completion and fulfillment of God’s plan and purpose in the book of Revelation.

The Numerological Significance of 28 in Biblical Patterns and Measurements

1. The Lunar Month and Menstrual Cycle: The average lunar month spans approximately 28 days, mirroring the average length of a woman’s menstrual cycle. This connection between the lunar month and the menstrual cycle suggests a symbolic relationship between the moon, fertility, and the cycles of life.
2. The 28 Generations of Genealogy: In the Gospel of Matthew, the genealogy of Jesus Christ is presented in three sets of 14 generations. While there are only 27 generations listed, the inclusion of Jesus Himself completes the pattern and brings the total to 28. This numerical arrangement indicates the significance of Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise and the ultimate purpose of the genealogical lineage.
3. The 28-Cubit High Walls of the New Jerusalem: In the book of Revelation, the description of the New Jerusalem includes measurements of its walls. It is stated that the walls are 144 cubits high, which is a multiple of 12. When divided by 12, we get 12, symbolizing completeness and perfection. This connection between 144 and 12 reveals that the height of the walls, which represents protection and security, is divided into 12 equal parts of 12 cubits each, resulting in a total of 28 divisions. This highlights the significance of the number 28 in the context of the eternal dwelling place of believers.
4. The 28 Cities of the Levites: In the book of Joshua, the Levites, who served as priests and caretakers of the Tabernacle, were allocated a total of 48 cities as their inheritance. However, 20 of these cities were designated as cities of refuge. This leaves 28 cities assigned specifically to the Levites for their dwelling. The distribution of 28 cities to the Levites emphasizes their special role in ministering to the people and points to their significance in the worship and spiritual life of Israel.
5. The 28-Day Interval in Revelation: In the book of Revelation, there is a mention of a 28-day interval between the sounding of the sixth trumpet and the pouring out of the seventh bowl of God’s wrath. This time gap may hold symbolic significance, representing a period of divine intervention, judgment, and preparation before the final culmination of God’s plan.
6. The 28th Chapter of Deuteronomy: The 28th chapter of the book of Deuteronomy contains blessings and curses pronounced by Moses upon the Israelites. This chapter outlines the consequences of obedience and disobedience to God’s commandments. The inclusion of the number 28 in this pivotal chapter underscores its significance as a turning point in the Israelites’ journey and serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and covenant obedience.

Conclusion

The numerological significance of the number 28 in biblical patterns and measurements reveals a consistent theme of completion, divine order, and significant transitions. From the lunar month and the menstrual cycle to genealogies, city allocations, and intervals in biblical accounts, the number 28 points to the divine orchestration of time and events. It signifies the fulfillment of promises, the completion of cycles, and the importance of obedience and covenant faithfulness. As we recognize the numerical patterns and measurements in Scripture, we gain a deeper appreciation for God’s order and intentionality in every aspect of our lives.