Numbers 2:1-31
Summary for Num 2:1-34: 2:1-34 a Israel’s camps were to be organized by tribal groupings. This arrangement may have reflected concerns for social status, access to water, and security for the Tabernacle, which represented the Lord’s presence. The Egyptian army from approximately this same era camped in a similar defensive formation to protect the sacred objects that accompanied their field campaigns.2:2 b Each area of the Hebrew camp was identified by family banners, which were probably flags or streamers (1:52 c). The use of such tribal symbols or battle flags finds an analogy in modern bedouin life, where the divisions of tribe, clan, and family have long held great importance.
• The tribes camped around the sanctuary at a safe distance (cp. Josh 3:4 d) that respected the gap between God’s holiness and the non-Levitical tribes.
Summary for Num 2:3-9: 2:3-9 e The tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun camped in the most prestigious place on the east side of the Tabernacle and led the way when Israel was on the move. This largest of the tribal groups (186,400) could provide adequate protection for the sacred tent and its attendants.
Summary for Num 2:10-16: 2:10-16 f The tribes of Reuben, Simeon, and Gad camped on the south. With their 151,450 warriors, they took second place in the line of march.
Summary for Num 2:18-24: 2:18-24 g The tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin marched behind the Tabernacle and the Levites.
Summary for Num 2:25-31: 2:25-31 h The tribes of Dan, Asher, and Naphtali brought up the rear.
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