What does twelve mean in the Bible?

Answer 1

Some biblical numerologist consider the number 12 and multiples thereof, to represent 'organization new beginnings.' Consider the 12 months of the year, the 12 tribes of Israel, the 144,000 in Revelations.

Answer 2

Some numbers used in The Bible are figurative or have symbolic meaning. This should not be confused with numerology.

For the number 12 - we find that the Bible uses this number alot -

Jacob (the Patriarch of Israel) has 12 sons

These 12 sons became the 12 tribes of Israel.

Jesus chose 12 apostles

Revelation refers to 12 (spiritual) tribes of Israel

Is is evident that TWELVE represents a "complete, balanced, divinely constituted arrangement"*

There are also multiples of 12 mentioned. In 1 Chronicles, King David establishes 24 divisions of the priesthood. In the book of Revelation, there are "24 elders" seated around God's throne.

Answer:

Many biblical scholars have associated the number 12 to mean 'organizational beginnings.' Consider the 12 months of the year and the 12 tribes of Israel beginning the physical Church or Congregation of Israel to the 12 Apostles beginning the Church of God or spiritual Israel.

Answer 3

According to many biblical scholars, the number 12 signifies governmental perfection. For example in the book of Genesis reveals that there were 12 sons of Jacob. The 12 sons formed the 12 tribes of Israel.

Answer 4

One site I looked at says that 12 is the number of "governmental perfection". As examples, there were 12 tribes of Israel, 12 disciples, 12 gates, etc.