Numbers 1:5

KJV

And these [are] the names of the men that shall stand with you: of [the tribe of] Reuben; Elizur the son of Shedeur.

KJV (with Strong's)

And these are the names {H8034} of the men {H582} that shall stand {H5975} with you: of the tribe of Reuben {H7205}; Elizur {H468} the son {H1121} of Shedeur {H7707}.

Complete Jewish Bible

These are the men to take with you: From Re'uven, Elitzur the son of Sh'de'ur;

Berean Standard Bible

These are the names of the men who are to assist you: From the tribe of Reuben, Elizur son of Shedeur;

American Standard Version

And these are the names of the men that shall stand with you. Of Reuben: Elizur the son of Shedeur.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 1:5 serves as the inaugural entry in a divinely commanded roster of tribal leaders, meticulously chosen to assist Moses and Aaron in the comprehensive census and subsequent organization of the Israelite nation. Specifically, this verse introduces Elizur, son of Shedeur, as the appointed representative for the tribe of Reuben, thereby laying the groundwork for a structured, divinely mandated framework of leadership essential for Israel's wilderness journey, military readiness, and the fulfillment of their covenant responsibilities as God's chosen people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The Book of Numbers opens with Israel encamped at Mount Sinai, having just completed the construction of the Tabernacle and received extensive Mosaic Law. Numbers 1:5 is situated within the initial chapter, which details God's explicit command to Moses to conduct a comprehensive census of all Israelite men aged twenty years and older, who were capable of military service. This directive, articulated in [Numbers 1:2-3](/numbers/1-2-3 "Numbers 1:2-3 - Command for the Census and Military Readiness"), establishes the immediate purpose of the detailed enumeration that follows. Verse 4 sets the stage by indicating that one man from each tribe, designated as a "head of the house of his fathers," was to assist Moses and Aaron in this monumental task. Numbers 1:5 then commences the specific listing of these chosen leaders, beginning with the tribe of Reuben, setting a pattern for the subsequent verses that list leaders from the other tribes.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At this juncture, the Israelites were a vast, recently liberated multitude, transitioning from centuries of slavery in Egypt to a nomadic existence in the wilderness, en route to the [Promised Land](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey"). Managing a population potentially numbering in the millions required an extraordinary degree of organization, particularly for military readiness, resource distribution, and maintaining social and spiritual cohesion. The tribal structure was the foundational unit of Israelite society, dictating lineage, inheritance, and identity. Each tribe possessed its own internal leadership, and the appointment of a single, prominent leader from each, as exemplified by [Numbers 1:5](/numbers/1-5 "Numbers 1:5 - Elizur from Reuben"), was paramount for implementing divine directives, maintaining order, and ensuring equitable distribution of responsibilities. This census, therefore, was far more than a simple demographic count; it was a strategic act of national organization, preparing Israel for both the rigors of wilderness warfare and the structured life of a divinely ordered community.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 1:5, though a single verse, contributes to several overarching themes within the book and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Sovereignty**. God's meticulous command for a census and the appointment of specific leaders demonstrates His commitment to order, structure, and intentionality in guiding His people, contrasting with the chaos of the wilderness. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Leadership and Delegated Authority**. Moses and Aaron, though divinely chosen, were not meant to bear the entire burden of leadership alone. The appointment of tribal heads like Elizur illustrates the principle of empowering others to share in responsibility, a model for effective governance and community building within God's people. Finally, the census itself, initiated in [Numbers 1](/numbers/1 "Numbers 1 - The Census of Israel"), is intrinsically linked to the theme of **Preparation for Covenant Life and Warfare**. The enumeration of able-bodied men signals Israel's readiness to engage in military conflict to inherit the land, while the structured organization ensures their ability to function as a holy nation under God's covenant.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **names (Hebrew, _shêm'_):** This word (H8034) refers to an appellation, marking individuality, and by implication, honor, authority, and character. In ancient Near Eastern thought, a name was not merely a label but often conveyed the essence, reputation, or destiny of a person. Here, the listing of names signifies the formal recognition and divine appointment of individuals for a specific, authoritative role, emphasizing their identity and the weight of their responsibility.
* **stand (Hebrew, _ʻâmad'_):** The verb (H5975) means "to stand" in various relations, often implying to abide, confirm, endure, establish, or be present. In this context, "shall stand with you" denotes more than mere physical presence; it signifies active support, partnership, and co-laboring. These men were not passive observers but were appointed to assist Moses and Aaron directly in the weighty task of the census and the subsequent organization of the tribes, highlighting a principle of delegated authority and shared responsibility in the divine administration of Israel.
* **Elizur (Hebrew, _ʼĔlîytsûwr'_):** This theophoric name (H468), meaning "God of (the) rock" or "My God is a rock," carries profound theological weight. It signifies a deep trust in God's steadfastness, reliability, and protective power. For a leader tasked with organizing a nation on a perilous journey, such a name would have served as a constant reminder of divine strength and a source of confidence, reflecting the foundational faith expected of those in positions of authority.
* **Shedeur (Hebrew, _Shᵉdêyʼûwr'_):** This name (H7707), often interpreted as "spreader of light" or linked to "Shaddai is light," connects to the divine name El Shaddai, frequently translated as "God Almighty" or "God All-Sufficient." This name, therefore, would evoke concepts of divine power, provision, and illumination, suggesting a lineage rooted in a profound understanding of God's omnipotence and guiding presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And these [are] the names of the men that shall stand with you:"** This introductory clause serves as a formal declaration, signaling that the subsequent verses will enumerate specific individuals divinely appointed to assist Moses and Aaron. The phrase "shall stand with you" is crucial, implying a role of active support, partnership, and co-labor, underscoring the delegation of authority necessary for the monumental task of organizing the vast Israelite multitude. It sets the stage for a meticulous register of leadership.
* **"of [the tribe of] Reuben;"** This segment immediately specifies the tribal origin of the first leader to be named. The tribe of Reuben, as the firstborn son of Jacob, held a position of initial prominence, which is reflected in his tribe being listed first in this important roster of leaders, even if his historical standing was complex due to past transgressions (cf. [Genesis 49:3-4](/genesis/49-3-4 "Genesis 49:3-4 - Jacob's Prophecy for Reuben")). This initial placement highlights the traditional order of the tribes.
* **"Elizur the son of Shedeur."** This final part of the verse precisely identifies the individual chosen from Reuben. The inclusion of the patronymic ("the son of Shedeur") was a standard and essential means of identification in ancient Israelite society, confirming lineage, status, and tribal affiliation. This detail emphasizes the continuity of family lines within the larger national structure and provides specific, verifiable identification for the appointed leader.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 1:5, as an integral part of a larger enumeration, primarily employs the literary device of a **Register** or **List**. This meticulous listing of tribal leaders underscores the divine emphasis on order, structure, and accountability within the Israelite community. The very act of naming each individual, tribe by tribe, highlights God's particularity and intentionality in preparing His people for their wilderness journey and future inheritance. Furthermore, the consistent use of **Patronymic** identification ("the son of Shedeur") throughout this section reinforces the importance of lineage, tribal identity, and family honor in ancient Israelite society, serving as a genealogical anchor for each leader. Finally, the names themselves, such as **Elizur** and **Shedeur**, are significant examples of **Theophoric Names**, which embed elements of God's name or attributes within them. These names are not merely labels but carry theological statements, reflecting the pervasive spiritual worldview of the time and often foreshadowing or affirming the character of the individual or their family's faith.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 1:5, despite its seemingly simple function as a name entry, is profoundly rich with theological significance. It powerfully illustrates God's unwavering commitment to order and structure within His covenant people. The meticulous appointment of specific leaders for each tribe demonstrates that God is not a God of chaos, but one who orchestrates every detail for the effective functioning of His purposes and the flourishing of His community. This verse also highlights the crucial principle of delegated authority, showing that even Moses and Aaron, divinely chosen and uniquely gifted, were not meant to bear the entire burden of leadership alone. God empowers and equips individuals like Elizur to share in the responsibility, ensuring that His divine plan for Israel's journey and future inheritance would be executed with precision, unity, and shared accountability. This preparation underscores the seriousness of Israel's mission and God's sovereign hand in guiding His people towards their destiny.

* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Order, Not Disorder")
* [Exodus 18:21](/exodus/18-21 "Exodus 18:21 - Jethro's Counsel on Delegated Authority")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Christ Gives Leaders to Equip the Saints")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detailing of leadership appointments in Numbers 1:5 offers profound and enduring insights for contemporary believers and communities. It underscores the timeless principle that God values order and structure, not as rigid bureaucracy, but as essential foundations for effective mission, spiritual flourishing, and harmonious community life. For the church today, this means recognizing the vital importance of clear, accountable leadership, wisely delegated responsibilities, and the active, collaborative participation of every member. Just as Elizur was called to "stand with" Moses and Aaron, we are called to support and collaborate with those God has placed in positions of authority, contributing our unique gifts and callings to the collective work of the Kingdom. The very name Elizur, "My God is a rock," serves as a timeless reminder that true leadership, particularly in challenging and uncertain times, is anchored in unwavering trust and reliance on God's steadfast character and unchanging nature. This verse challenges us to consider our own role in God's grand design, prompting us to ask how we are preparing ourselves and our communities to fulfill His purposes with diligence, faithfulness, and a deep reliance on His sovereign strength.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on divine order and delegated leadership in Numbers 1:5 apply to the structure and functioning of your own church or spiritual community?**
* **In what practical ways can you "stand with" or actively support the leaders God has placed over you, contributing to the collective mission and unity of the body?**
* **Reflecting on the name Elizur ("My God is a rock"), what does it mean for you to anchor your trust, decisions, and leadership (in any sphere) in God's steadfastness during times of uncertainty or challenge?**

### FAQ
**Why was a census so important at this specific point in Israel's history?**

Answer: The census commanded in [Numbers 1](/numbers/1 "Numbers 1 - The Census of Israel") was crucial for several interconnected reasons. Firstly, it served as a comprehensive military registration, identifying all men twenty years and older capable of warfare, thereby preparing Israel for potential conflicts as they moved towards the [Promised Land](/exodus/3-8 "Exodus 3:8 - The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey"). Secondly, it was an essential organizational tool for the vast multitude, establishing a structured encampment and marching order, as meticulously detailed in [Numbers 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Order of the Tribes"). This divine order was paramount for maintaining cohesion, preventing chaos, and ensuring efficient movement among a nomadic people. Thirdly, it served as a basis for future land distribution and the allocation of responsibilities, ensuring equitable burdens and blessings among the tribes. Ultimately, it reflected God's meticulous care in preparing His people for their covenant responsibilities and their journey to inherit the land, demonstrating His sovereign hand in every detail of their national life.

**What is the significance of the names Elizur and Shedeur?**

Answer: The names Elizur and Shedeur are **theophoric**, meaning they incorporate elements that refer to God, a common and significant practice in ancient Israelite naming conventions. Elizur (H468, _ʼĔlîytsûwr'_), for example, means "My God is a rock" or "God is my rock." This name speaks powerfully to God's steadfastness, reliability, and protective nature, qualities that would be particularly fitting and reassuring for a leader in the challenging wilderness environment. Shedeur (H7707, _Shᵉdêyʼûwr'_), while its precise etymology is debated, is often linked to "Shaddai is light" or "giver of light," connecting to the divine name El Shaddai, often translated as "God Almighty" or "God All-Sufficient." These names highlight the pervasive spiritual worldview of the time, where personal names often served as declarations of faith, reflections of divine attributes, or even prophetic statements, underscoring the deep spiritual foundation and divine appointment of these chosen leaders.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous organization and delegated leadership seen in Numbers 1:5 find their ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Christ and His Church. Just as God appointed leaders to prepare Israel for their earthly inheritance and physical journey, Christ, the true Head of the Church, meticulously establishes and equips leaders for the spiritual inheritance and eternal journey of His people. He is the ultimate "Rock" (as implied in Elizur's name), the foundational cornerstone upon whom the Church is built ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church's Foundation")), providing unwavering stability and security. Through His ascension, Christ "gave gifts to men"—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—"to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" ([Ephesians 4:8-12](/ephesians/4-8-12 "Ephesians 4:8-12 - Christ's Gifts to the Church")). The principle of "standing with" Moses and Aaron foreshadows the New Testament call for all believers to be co-laborers with God ([1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - We Are God's Fellow Workers")) and to humbly submit to and support their spiritual leaders ([Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Hebrews 13:17 - Obey Your Leaders")). The census, preparing Israel for a physical journey and warfare against earthly enemies, points profoundly to the Church's spiritual journey and warfare against unseen forces, led by Christ, the Captain of our salvation ([Hebrews 2:10](/hebrews/2-10 "Hebrews 2:10 - Christ, the Captain of Salvation")). Thus, Numbers 1:5, far from being a mere historical record, illuminates God's consistent pattern of orderly preparation and divinely delegated authority, culminating in the perfect leadership of Christ and the empowering of His body to fulfill the Great Commission and advance His eternal Kingdom ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 7:30

On the fourth day Elizur the son of Shedeur, prince of the children of Reuben, [did offer]:

Exodus 1:2

Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah,

Exodus 1:5

And all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob were seventy souls: for Joseph was in Egypt [already].

Numbers 10:18

And the standard of the camp of Reuben set forward according to their armies: and over his host [was] Elizur the son of Shedeur.

Genesis 35:17

And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also.

Genesis 35:26

And the sons of Zilpah, Leah's handmaid; Gad, and Asher: these [are] the sons of Jacob, which were born to him in Padanaram.

Genesis 29:32

And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me.