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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 2:3–34.
We have here the particular distribution of the twelve tribes into four squadrons, three tribes in a squadron, one of which was to lead the other two. Observe, 1. God himself appointed them their place, to prevent strife and envy among them. Had they been left to determine precedency among themselves, they would have been in danger of quarrelling with one another (as the disciples who strove which should be greatest); each would have had a pretence to be first, or at least not to be last. Had it been left to Moses to determine, they would have quarrelled with him, and charged him with partiality; therefore God does it, who is himself the fountain and judge of honour, and in his appointment all must acquiesce. If God in his providence advance others above us, and abase us, we ought to be as well satisfied in his doing it in that way as if he did it, as this was done here, by a voice out of the tabernacle; and this consideration, that it appears to be the will of God it should be so, should effectually silence all envies and discontents. And as far as our place comes to be our choice our Saviour has given us a rule in Luk 14:8, Sit not down in the highest room; and another in Mat 20:27, He that will be chief, let him be your servant. Those that are most humble and most serviceable are really most honourable. 2. Every tribe had a captain, a prince, or commander-in-chief, whom God himself nominated, the same that had been appointed to number them, Num 1:5. Our being all the children of one Adam is so far from justifying the levellers, and taking away the distinction of place and honour, that even among the children of the same Abraham, the same Jacob, the same Judah, God himself appointed that one should be captain of all the rest. There are powers ordained of God, and those to whom honour and fear are due and must be paid. Some observe the significancy of the names of these princes, at least, in general, how much God was in the thoughts of those that gave them their names, for most of them have El, God, at one end or other of their names. Nethaneel, the gift of God; Eliab, my God a Father; Elizur, my God a rock; Shelumiel, God my peace; Eliasaph, God has added; Elishama, my God has heard: Gamaliel, God my reward; Pagiel, God has met me. By this it appears that the Israelites in Egypt did not quite forget the name of their God, but, when they wanted other memorials, preserved the remembrance of it in the names of their children, and therewith comforted themselves in their affliction. 3. Those tribes were placed together under the same standard that were nearest of kin to each other; Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun, were the three younger sons of Leah, and they were put together; and Issachar and Zebulun would not grudge to be under Judah, since they were his younger brethren. Reuben and Simeon would not have been content in their place. Therefore Reuben, Jacob's eldest son, is made chief of the next squadron; Simeon, no doubt, is willing to be under him, and Gad, the son of Zilpah, Leah's handmaid, is fitly added to them in Levi's room: Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin, are all the posterity of Rachel. Dan, the eldest son of Bilhah, is made a leading tribe, though the son of a concubine, that more abundant honour might be bestowed on that which lacked; and it was said, Dan should judge his people, and to him were added two younger sons of the handmaids. Thus unexceptionable was the order in which they were placed. 4. The tribe of Judah was in the first post of honour, encamped towards the rising sun, and in their marches led the van, not only because it was the most numerous tribe, but chiefly because from that tribe Christ was to come, who is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and was to descend from the loins of him who was now nominated chief captain of that tribe. Nahshon is reckoned among the ancestors of Christ, Mat 1:4. So that, when he went before them, Christ himself went before them in effect, as their leader. Judah was the first of the twelve sons of Jacob that was blessed. Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, were censured by their dying father; he therefore being first in blessing, though not in birth, is put first, to teach children how to value the smiles of their godly parents and dread their frowns. 5. The tribes of Levi pitched closely about the tabernacle, within the rest of their tribes, Num 2:17. They must defend the sanctuary, and then the rest of the tribes must defend them. Thus, in the vision which John saw of the glory of heaven, between the elders and the throne were four living creatures full of eyes, Rev 4:6, Rev 4:8. Civil powers should protect the religious interests of a nation, and be a defence upon that glory. 6. The camp of Dan (and so that tribe is called long after their settlement in Canaan (Jdg 13:25), because celebrated for their military prowess), though posted in the left wing when they encamped, was ordered in their march to bring up the rear, Num 2:31. They were the most numerous, next to Judah, and therefore were ordered into a post which, next to the front, required the most strength, for as the strength is so shall the day be. Lastly, The children of Israel observed the orders given them, and did as the Lord commanded Moses, Num 2:34. They put themselves in the posts assigned them, without murmuring or disputing, and, as it was their safety, so it was their beauty; Balaam was charmed with the sight of it: How goodly are thy tents, O Jacob! Num 24:5. Thus the gospel church, called the camp of saints, ought to be compact according to the scripture model, every one knowing and keeping his place, and then all that wish well to the church rejoice, beholding their order, Col 2:5.
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Summary
Numbers 2:31 meticulously records the census results for the tribe of Dan, detailing their significant numerical strength and their crucial designation within God's divinely ordained encampment and marching order for Israel. This verse positions Dan, along with the tribes of Asher and Naphtali, as the rearguard of the entire Israelite procession, a strategic role that underscores God's profound desire for order, His provision for the protection and security of His people, and the indispensable value of every assigned role within His community as they journeyed through the wilderness.
Context
Literary Context
Numbers 2 serves as a pivotal chapter immediately following the census in Numbers 1, which enumerated the fighting men of Israel. This chapter meticulously outlines God's precise blueprint for the arrangement of the twelve tribes around the central Tabernacle, both in encampment and during travel. Each tribal division (east, south, west, north) is assigned a specific position, a designated leader, and a unique standard. Numbers 2:31 concludes this detailed organizational scheme by specifying the tribe of Dan's numerical strength and their vital role as the rearguard of the northern division, alongside Asher and Naphtali, as previously introduced in Numbers 2:25-29. This intricate structure highlights God's demand for order, holiness, and disciplined movement as His people prepared for their wilderness journey, emphasizing that every part of the community had a specific, divinely appointed place and purpose.
Historical & Cultural Context
At this juncture, Israel was a nascent nation, having recently escaped Egyptian bondage and received the Mosaic Law at Mount Sinai. Their transition from a scattered group of former slaves into a unified, holy nation necessitated unparalleled organization for survival, defense, and spiritual purity in the harsh, unpredictable wilderness. The Tabernacle, symbolizing God's manifest presence, was the absolute epicenter of their existence, dictating the concentric arrangement of all tribal camps. In ancient Near Eastern military and migratory formations, the rearguard was a position of immense strategic importance and strength, not inferiority. It was tasked with safeguarding the vulnerable rear of the procession, collecting stragglers, and defending against surprise attacks, much like the divine rearguard protection that God Himself provided for Israel during the Exodus, as described in Exodus 14:19. Dan's numerical superiority, as detailed in this verse, made them uniquely suited for this critical protective role.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Order and Sovereignty, revealing God as a meticulous organizer who governs every aspect of His people's lives, from their worship to their daily movements. The precise enumeration and positioning of each tribe demonstrate His absolute control and purposeful design. Secondly, it highlights the theme of Community and Interdependence, showing that every tribe, regardless of its position, was essential for the collective well-being and progress of the entire nation. Dan's rearguard role, though "hindmost," was indispensable for the security of all, illustrating that no part of God's people is insignificant. Finally, the verse speaks to God's Protective Presence and Provision, as the rearguard ensured the safety of the vulnerable, mirroring God's own unwavering watchfulness and care over His covenant people throughout their perilous journey, a theme echoed in Deuteronomy 32:10.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Derived from the root meaning "judge," Dan was one of Jacob's twelve sons, and his descendants formed a significant tribe within Israel. In this census, the tribe of Dan is enumerated as 157,600 fighting men, making them the largest of the four tribal camps. This substantial numerical strength was a primary factor in their strategic designation as the rearguard, a role demanding considerable military capacity and resilience.
This term literally translates to "hinder," "last," or "rear." In the context of a marching procession or military formation, the "hindmost" position was far from a place of inferiority or weakness. Instead, it was a highly strategic and crucial role, designating the rearguard. This unit was responsible for protecting the entire assembly from attacks from behind, gathering any stragglers, and ensuring the security of the vulnerable elements of the camp. It implies a position of strength and protective responsibility.
This word refers to a flag, banner, or ensign. These were not merely decorative emblems but served as vital visual rallying points and identifiers for each of the four main divisions of the Israelite camp (Judah, Reuben, Ephraim, and Dan). Each standard symbolized the distinct identity and unity of the tribes within its division, representing their collective identity under God's divine command and organization. They were a visible manifestation of the structured order God imposed upon His people.
Verse Breakdown
"All they that were numbered in the camp of Dan"
This opening phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the divine census and precisely identifies the tribe of Dan as the subject of this particular enumeration, emphasizing their full inclusion and accountability within God's meticulously ordered system for Israel.
"[were] an hundred thousand and fifty and seven thousand and six hundred."
This precise numerical figure (157,600) highlights the immense strength and size of the tribe of Dan. This large number was a key determinant in their assignment to the critical and demanding rearguard position, indicating their capacity to fulfill this vital protective role for the entire Israelite community.
"They shall go hindmost with their standards."
This prescriptive command dictates Dan's designated marching order. It assigns them the crucial role of the rearguard, responsible for protecting the rear of the Israelite procession. The mention of "their standards" reinforces the visual identity and unity of this division as they moved, signifying their organized and divinely appointed place within the larger, marching community.
Literary Devices
Numbers 2:31 primarily employs Enumeration, a pervasive literary feature throughout the book of Numbers. The meticulous counting and precise detailing of the numerical strength of the tribe of Dan (157,600) underscore God's absolute precision, His direct involvement in the organization of His people, and the divine order that permeated every aspect of Israel's existence. This numerical exactitude conveys a sense of divine intentionality and control, leaving nothing to chance. Furthermore, profound Symbolism is evident. The "standards" or banners (Hebrew: degel) are not mere flags but powerful symbols of tribal identity, unity, and divine authority, serving as visible representations of God's ordered community and His covenant with Israel. Dan's position as "hindmost" is also deeply Symbolic, signifying a role of strength, protection, and responsibility, rather than one of inferiority or disgrace. It powerfully foreshadows the protective presence of God Himself, who often acts as a rearguard for His people, ensuring their safety and security.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 2:31 offers profound insights into the character of God as a God of perfect order, not chaos. His meticulous organization of Israel's camp and march reveals His absolute sovereignty over every intricate detail of His people's lives and His desire for them to live in disciplined harmony, reflecting His own divine nature. Every position within this divinely appointed structure, even the "hindmost" rearguard, is essential and carries significant responsibility, contributing indispensably to the well-being, security, and collective mission of the entire community. This divine order also powerfully speaks to God's inherent protective nature, as the rearguard ensures the safety of the entire procession, mirroring God's own unwavering watchfulness and providential care over His beloved people.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 2:31, though seemingly a dry administrative detail, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order who meticulously places each of us precisely where we are meant to be within His grand, overarching plan. Just as Dan's position as the "hindmost" was not a demotion but a crucial, indispensable role for the safety and successful progress of the entire Israelite community, so too are all roles within the body of Christ vital and valued, regardless of their perceived prominence or visibility. This verse challenges us to embrace our unique gifts, callings, and positions within our communities and the church with humility, diligence, and a deep sense of responsibility. It encourages us to understand that even roles that may seem less visible or "behind the scenes" are absolutely indispensable for the collective well-being, spiritual health, and missional advancement of God's people. Ultimately, it calls us to trust in God's divine ordering and to serve faithfully, knowing that He provides both purpose and protection for every step of our spiritual journey.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was the tribe of Dan designated as the "hindmost" or rearguard?
The designation of Dan as the "hindmost" or rearguard was a strategic and highly honorable position, not one of inferiority. As the largest of the four tribal camps, Dan possessed the numerical strength and military capacity to effectively protect the entire Israelite procession from potential attacks from the rear. This role was crucial for gathering any stragglers, defending against ambushes, and ensuring the overall safety and integrity of the vulnerable elements within the moving camp. It was a position of significant responsibility, ensuring the security and cohesion of the entire encampment and march. This echoes the protective role God Himself often takes for His people, as seen in passages like Isaiah 52:12, where the Lord goes before and is the rearguard.
What is the significance of the "standards" mentioned in this verse?
The "standards" (Hebrew: degel) were not merely decorative flags but served as vital tribal banners or ensigns. They functioned as visual identifiers for each of the four main divisions of the Israelite camp, symbolizing tribal identity, unity, and serving as rallying points for the thousands of people within each division. Their presence underscored the highly organized, divinely ordained nature of the encampment and march. These standards ensured that each tribe knew its specific place and purpose within the larger community of Israel, preventing chaos, promoting cohesion, and visibly representing God's ordered presence among His people.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The meticulous order, divine protection, and purposeful organization seen in Numbers 2:31 ultimately find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the one who brings perfect order out of the chaos of a fallen world and to the lives of His people, establishing His kingdom and His Church with divine precision. Just as the Tabernacle was the sacred center around which Israel's camp was ordered, Christ is the very center and the supreme head of His Church, the new Israel, holding all things together by His powerful word and presence (Colossians 1:17). He is the ultimate rearguard, providing constant, unwavering protection and security for His flock, ensuring that none of His own are lost or left behind (John 10:28-29). Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, Christ not only orders our spiritual lives and grants us peace with God but also promises His abiding presence, fulfilling the divine protective presence symbolized by Dan's rearguard role and God's own rearguard in the Exodus (Matthew 28:20). In Him, every member of the body of Christ has a vital, divinely appointed role and purpose, contributing to the health, unity, and mission of the whole, under His perfect headship and sovereign care (Ephesians 1:22-23).