Numbers 2:5
And those that do pitch next unto him shall be the tribe of Issachar: and Nethaneel the son of Zuar shall be captain of the children of Issachar.
Original Language Analysis
וְהַֽחֹנִ֥ים
And those that do pitch
H2583
וְהַֽחֹנִ֥ים
And those that do pitch
Strong's:
H2583
Word #:
1 of 10
properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s
עָלָ֖יו
H5921
עָלָ֖יו
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
מַטֵּ֣ה
next unto him shall be the tribe
H4294
מַטֵּ֣ה
next unto him shall be the tribe
Strong's:
H4294
Word #:
3 of 10
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
וְנָשִׂיא֙
shall be captain
H5387
וְנָשִׂיא֙
shall be captain
Strong's:
H5387
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
בֶּן
of the children
H1121
בֶּן
of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
6 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Cross References
Numbers 1:8Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.Numbers 7:18On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:Numbers 7:23And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Nethaneel the son of Zuar.
Historical Context
The camp arrangement created four divisions of three tribes each, centered around the tabernacle. This formation provided both military security and visual reminder that God dwelt at the center of Israel's national life, a principle that should characterize all of God's people.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the deliberate arrangement of tribal camps challenge us to be intentional about our relationships and associations?
- What does Israel's camp centered on God's dwelling teach us about organizing our lives and priorities?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Issachar's camp placement next to Judah created an alliance between the royal tribe and a tribe later noted for wisdom (1 Chronicles 12:32). This strategic positioning demonstrates God's sovereignty in arranging relationships that would benefit His people. The biblical principle of godly associations and strategic partnerships finds precedent in this divine ordering, reminding believers that God providentially arranges relationships for mutual edification and kingdom advancement.