Contradiction with Exodus 12:37
Numbers 2:13 lists the tribe of Simeon as 59,300, which is inconsistent with the smaller number of Israelites who left Egypt according to Exodus 12:37.
Exodus 12:37: And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot [that were] men, beside children.
Contradiction with Judges 1:3
Numbers 2:13 refers to the tribe of Simeon as independent, whereas Judges 1:3 shows the tribe of Simeon relying on Judah for territorial conquest, indicating a lack of independent strength.
Judges 1:3: And Judah said unto Simeon his brother, Come up with me into my lot, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I likewise will go with thee into thy lot. So Simeon went with him.
Contradiction with Genesis 49:5-7
Numbers 2:13 counts Simeon as a substantial military force, contradicting Jacob's prophecy in Genesis 49:5-7 which mentions Simeon's future dispersion and diminished status.
Genesis 49:5-7: Simeon and Levi [are] brethren; instruments of cruelty [are in] their habitations. [instruments...: or, their swords are weapons of violence]
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 27:16-22
In Numbers 2:13, Simeon's tribe is numbered among the main tribes, while in 1 Chronicles 27:16-22, Simeon is notably excluded from the list of tribal leaders in David’s administration, suggesting reduced significance.
1 Chronicles 27:16-22: Furthermore over the tribes of Israel: the ruler of the Reubenites [was] Eliezer the son of Zichri: of the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maachah:
Contradiction with Numbers 25:14
Numbers 2:13 lists 59,300 able men of Simeon, but Numbers 25:14 indicates significant casualties within Simeon's leadership, potentially contradicting their numerical strength.
Numbers 25:14: Now the name of the Israelite that was slain, [even] that was slain with the Midianitish woman, [was] Zimri, the son of Salu, a prince of a chief house among the Simeonites. [chief...: Heb. house of a father]