Deu 1:12-15 | Clarke

Deuteronomy 1:12-15

Verse 13

Take you wise men - חכמים chachamim, such as had gained knowledge by great labor and study. Understanding נבנים nebonim, persons of discernment, judicious men. Known, ידעים yeduim, persons practiced in the operations of nature, capable of performing curious and important works. Verse 15

Captains over thousands, etc. - What a curious and well-regulated economy was that of the Israelites! See its order and arrangement:

1. God, the King and Supreme Judge;

2. Moses, God's prime minister;

3. The priests, consulting him by Urim and Thummim;

4. The chiefs or princes of the twelve tribes;

5. Chilliarchs, or captains over thousands;

6. Centurions, or captains over hundreds;

7. Tribunes, or captains over fifty men;

8. Decurions, or captains over ten men; and,

9. Officers, persons who might be employed by the different chiefs in executing particular commands.

All these held their authority from God, and yet were subject and accountable to each other. See the notes on Numbers 2 (note).