Shouldn’t there be 12 children in Genesis 32:22?

Question:

Good morning,

I am working on my Bible class lesson for my Bible class tonight. While reviewing Jacob's children up to this point in Genesis, he should have 12 children: 11 sons and 1 daughter. However, Genesis 32:22 says that Jacob sent his two wives, two maids, and 11 children across the Jabbok. I am figuring that Dinah isn't included in the number of children used here since she is a female, but I was wondering if there is any foundation in that conclusion.

I have looked for information on this and I am unable to find it. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

Answer:

The word translated as "children" is also the same word for "sons." Hebrew doesn't have separate words. Some translations (NKJV, NIV, and KJV) use sons instead of children in this verse.

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