Numbers 2:12

KJV

And those which pitch by him [shall be] the tribe of Simeon: and the captain of the children of Simeon [shall be] Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

KJV (with Strong's)

And those which pitch {H2583} by him shall be the tribe {H4294} of Simeon {H8095}: and the captain {H5387} of the children {H1121} of Simeon {H8095} shall be Shelumiel {H8017} the son {H1121} of Zurishaddai {H6701}.

Berean Standard Bible

The tribe of Simeon will camp next to it. The leader of the Simeonites is Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai,

American Standard Version

And those that encamp next unto him shall be the tribe of Simeon: and the prince of the children of Simeon shall be Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 2:12 meticulously details the placement of the tribe of Simeon within the Israelite encampment, specifically positioning them alongside the tribe of Reuben on the south side of the Tabernacle. This verse further identifies Shelumiel, the son of Zurishaddai, as the appointed captain of the Simeonite contingent. This precise enumeration underscores God's profound commitment to order, structure, and designated leadership among His people as they journeyed through the wilderness, ensuring both tribal identity and national cohesion centered around His divine presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 2:12 is an integral part of a larger, divinely commanded blueprint for the Israelite camp and marching order, meticulously laid out in [Numbers chapter 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Order of the Tribes"). The preceding verses (Numbers 2:1-9) establish the general command for the encampment around the Tabernacle and specifically detail the tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun, who were to pitch on the east side. Numbers 2:10-11 then introduces the second division, the camp of Reuben, positioned on the south side, which includes Reuben himself and the tribe of Gad. Our verse, [Numbers 2:12](/numbers/2-12 "Numbers 2:12 - Simeon's Place in the Camp"), completes the south division by adding Simeon, thus forming a three-tribe unit under Reuben's banner. This systematic enumeration continues through the chapter, outlining the positions of all twelve tribes, emphasizing a deliberate and ordered arrangement for the entire nation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for [Numbers chapter 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Order of the Tribes") is the wilderness journey of the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt and their reception of the Law at Mount Sinai. As a vast multitude of perhaps two million people, the potential for chaos was immense. God's detailed instructions for the camp's layout, with the Tabernacle at its absolute center (as described in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Building the Sanctuary")), were crucial for maintaining order, sanitation, and a constant awareness of His presence. This structure also prepared them for efficient movement during their travels and for military readiness. Each tribe, though part of a larger national identity, retained its distinct lineage and leadership, a common feature of ancient tribal societies. The appointment of specific captains like Shelumiel was vital for internal governance, communication, and the execution of the divine commands. This arrangement was not merely practical; it was a visible manifestation of God's sovereignty and His desire for His people to live in an ordered, holy community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shelumiel (שְׁלֻמִיאֵל, _shělûmîʼēl'_):** This Hebrew name translates to "My peace is God" or "God is my recompense/reward." It is a composite name, combining "shalom" (peace, completeness, welfare) with "El" (God). The name itself carries a theological statement, reflecting a deep trust in God as the source of peace and ultimate fulfillment. In the context of a tribal leader, it suggests a person whose very identity is tied to God's provision and sovereignty, perhaps indicating a leader who brings peace or is blessed by God's peace.
* **Zurishaddai (צוּרִישַׁדַּי, _tsûrîshadday'_):** This powerful Hebrew name means "My rock is the Almighty" or "Rock of Shaddai." It combines "tsur" (rock, fortress, strength) with "Shaddai," one of the most ancient and profound names for God, often translated as "Almighty" or "All-Sufficient." The name "Zurishaddai" thus proclaims God as an unshakeable foundation, a source of unwavering strength and absolute sufficiency. For Shelumiel to be the "son of Zurishaddai" implies a lineage rooted in a profound theological confession, emphasizing the divine strength and faithfulness that undergirded the family and, by extension, the leadership of the tribe.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And those which pitch by him [shall be] the tribe of Simeon":** This clause specifies the precise location of the tribe of Simeon. "By him" refers to the tribe of Reuben, which was established as the lead tribe of the south camp in [Numbers 2:10](/numbers/2-10 "Numbers 2:10 - Reuben's Camp"). This placement highlights Simeon's subordinate yet integral position within the larger Reubenite division. The meticulous detail underscores God's divine blueprint for the camp, where every tribe has a designated, non-negotiable place, contributing to the overall order and functionality of the nation.
* **"and the captain of the children of Simeon [shall be] Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai":** This segment identifies the specific leader appointed by God for the tribe of Simeon. The mention of "captain" (נָשִׂיא, _nāśîʼ_, prince or chief) emphasizes the established hierarchy and the importance of recognized, divinely sanctioned leadership within each tribal unit. Shelumiel's full lineage, "the son of Zurishaddai," not only identifies him but also subtly reinforces the spiritual heritage and the theological meaning embedded in the names themselves, suggesting a leadership grounded in divine peace and the strength of the Almighty. This detail ensures accountability and order within the tribe and facilitates communication and coordination across the larger camp structure.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 2:12, like the entire chapter, prominently employs **Enumeration**, systematically listing each tribe and its captain within the larger organizational scheme. This device emphasizes the meticulousness of God's design and the comprehensive nature of His order. The repeated formula for identifying each tribe's position and leader creates a sense of **Repetition** and rhythm, reinforcing the divine authority behind the arrangement and its non-negotiable character. Furthermore, the inclusion of names like Shelumiel and Zurishaddai introduces elements of **Symbolism** and **Etymology**, where the very names of individuals carry theological weight, pointing to God's attributes (peace, strength, almightiness) and subtly imbuing the leadership with divine significance. The entire camp structure itself acts as a powerful **Metaphor** for God's desire for order, holiness, and His centrality in the life of His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 2:12, though a seemingly administrative detail, profoundly reinforces the theological truth that God is a God of order, not chaos. His meticulous arrangement of the Israelite camp, with the Tabernacle at its very heart, symbolizes His desire for His people to live in a structured, purposeful community centered on His presence. This divine order extends to the appointment of specific leaders, demonstrating God's provision for governance and His expectation of submission to authority for the common good. The individual tribal identities, while maintained, are subsumed into a larger national unity, reflecting the principle that individual parts contribute to the health and function of the whole body, all under God's sovereign design.

* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for the Church's Building Up")
* [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Our Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed instructions for the Israelite camp, including the specific placement of Simeon and the naming of its leader, serve as a profound reminder that God values order, intentionality, and proper leadership within His community. For us today, this passage encourages us to consider how we structure our lives, our families, and our churches. Are we living in a way that reflects God's desire for order, or is there chaos and disarray? Do we recognize and support the godly leadership He has established, understanding that it is for our edification and the effective functioning of the body of Christ? Most importantly, is God truly at the center of our individual and corporate lives, just as the Tabernacle was at the center of the Israelite camp? This passage calls us to align our priorities and practices with God's divine blueprint, trusting that His order leads to flourishing and effective witness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life (personal, family, church) do I need to invite God's order and intentionality?**
* **How well do I support and pray for the leaders God has placed over me, both spiritually and otherwise?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure that God remains the absolute center of my daily life and decisions?**
* **How does the concept of tribal identity within a larger national unity apply to my role within the local church and the global body of Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why is such a seemingly mundane detail about tribal placement and leadership included in the Bible?**

Answer: The inclusion of such meticulous details, as seen in [Numbers 2:12](/numbers/2-12 "Numbers 2:12 - Simeon's Place in the Camp"), serves several crucial purposes. First, it underscores God's nature as a God of perfect order and intentionality. He is not a God of chaos, and His divine design extends to every aspect of His people's lives, even their physical arrangement. Second, it highlights the importance of structure and organization for a large community, especially one undertaking a challenging wilderness journey. This order ensured efficiency, sanitation, and readiness for both travel and defense. Third, it emphasizes the significance of appointed leadership and tribal identity within the larger national unity. Each tribe had its place and its leader, ensuring accountability and cohesion. Finally, these details symbolically point to the centrality of God's presence (the Tabernacle) in the midst of His people, reminding them that He was their guide, protector, and provider.

**What is the significance of the names Shelumiel and Zurishaddai?**

Answer: The names Shelumiel and Zurishaddai are deeply significant, as many biblical names carry profound meaning. Shelumiel (שְׁלֻמִיאֵל) means "My peace is God" or "God is my recompense." This name reflects a theological truth, indicating that God is the source of peace and fulfillment. For a leader, it suggests someone whose identity and authority are rooted in divine peace. Zurishaddai (צוּרִישַׁדַּי) means "My rock is the Almighty" or "Rock of Shaddai." "Shaddai" is one of the ancient, powerful names for God, often translated as "Almighty" or "All-Sufficient." This name powerfully declares God as an unshakeable foundation and an inexhaustible source of strength. Together, these names for the leader and his father not only identify them but also serve as a confession of faith, proclaiming God's attributes of peace, strength, and omnipotence, which were essential qualities for the leadership of God's people in the wilderness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous order and centrality of the Tabernacle in the Israelite camp, exemplified by the placement of Simeon in [Numbers 2:12](/numbers/2-12 "Numbers 2:12 - Simeon's Place in the Camp"), finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Just as the Tabernacle symbolized God's dwelling among His people, Jesus Christ is the true and ultimate dwelling place of God, the "Word made flesh, who dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The divine order established in the wilderness foreshadows the perfect order and unity found in the body of Christ, the Church, where Christ Himself is the head ([Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church")), and every member has a designated place and function ([1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ")). The leadership of Shelumiel, rooted in names proclaiming God's peace and strength, points to Jesus as the ultimate Prince of Peace ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace")) and the Rock of our salvation ([1 Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ as the Spiritual Rock")). The wilderness journey itself, with its trials and divine provision, serves as a type of the Christian's spiritual pilgrimage, where Christ is our true guide, our sustaining manna ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life")), and the one who leads us to the promised rest in Him ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest")). In Christ, all the divine order, leadership, and presence that the Tabernacle and camp represented are perfectly and eternally realized.

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.