Numbers 2:5

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And those that do pitch {H2583} next unto him shall be the tribe {H4294} of Issachar {H3485}: and Nethaneel {H5417} the son {H1121} of Zuar {H6686} shall be captain {H5387} of the children {H1121} of Issachar {H3485}.

Berean Standard Bible

The tribe of Issachar will camp next to it. The leader of the Issacharites is Nethanel son of Zuar,

American Standard Version

And those that encamp next unto him shall be the tribe of Issachar: and the prince of the children of Issachar shall be Nethanel the son of Zuar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 2:5 precisely details the designated position of the tribe of Issachar within the meticulously ordered Israelite encampment in the wilderness. This verse specifies Issachar's placement on the east side of the Tabernacle, immediately adjacent to the leading tribe of Judah, and identifies Nethaneel the son of Zuar as their appointed captain, thereby emphasizing God's profound commitment to order, structure, and divinely sanctioned leadership within the community of His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers chapter 2 presents God's intricate and divinely ordained blueprint for the arrangement of the twelve tribes of Israel around the Tabernacle, the central dwelling place of God's presence. This elaborate formation was far from arbitrary; it was a meticulously designed system emphasizing God's holiness, the paramount importance of order, and the unity of His people. The tribes were organized into four divisions, each comprising three tribes, with a leading tribe, a standard, and designated captains. Numbers 2:5 specifically falls within the description of the eastern encampment, which was led by the prominent tribe of Judah. Issachar, along with Zebulun (Numbers 2:7), was commanded to pitch "next unto him," meaning immediately beside Judah, on the east side. This precise positioning ensured both structural order during encampment and efficient, disciplined movement during their long wilderness journey, as later detailed in [Numbers 10:14](/numbers/10-14 "Numbers 10:14 - Judah's Division Leads the March"). The entire chapter powerfully highlights God's sovereign control and His desire for a well-ordered community centered on His sacred presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for the instructions in Numbers 2 is the wilderness of Sinai, a period shortly following the giving of the Law and the construction of the Tabernacle. Israel was a vast multitude, numbering over 600,000 fighting men (Numbers 1:46), implying a total population potentially exceeding two million people. Organizing such a massive, nomadic population was an immense logistical and spiritual challenge. While ancient Near Eastern military encampments often exhibited structure, Israel's camp was unique in its profound theological significance: it was centered on the Tabernacle, the physical manifestation of God's covenant presence among them. This arrangement reinforced the concept that God was the very heart of Israel's identity, existence, and national purpose. The appointment of tribal leaders, or "captains" (like Nethaneel), was crucial for maintaining discipline, administering justice, mobilizing the people for travel or defense, and ensuring the smooth functioning of daily life. These leaders served as vital intermediaries between Moses and the people, reflecting a divinely established hierarchy necessary for the cohesion, spiritual well-being, and effective governance of the nascent nation.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous detail found in [Numbers 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Order of the Tribes"), including the specific placement of Issachar in [Numbers 2:5](/numbers/2-5 "Numbers 2:5 - Issachar's Position in the Camp"), underscores several key theological and narrative themes. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Order and Sovereignty**. God is presented as a God who brings structure to chaos, meticulously planning every detail of His people's lives and movements. This order is not arbitrary but reflects His holy character and His desire for a disciplined, unified people. Another crucial theme is the **Centrality of God's Presence**. The Tabernacle, God's dwelling place, is at the absolute center of the camp, symbolizing that all of Israel's life, identity, and purpose revolved around their relationship with Yahweh. Finally, the chapter highlights the theme of **Delegated Authority and Community Responsibility**. Each tribe has a specific place and a designated leader, emphasizing that every part of the community is valued and has a vital role to play under divinely appointed leadership, contributing to the overall well-being and mission of the nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Issachar (Hebrew, _Yissâˢkâr'_):** This tribal name, derived from the Hebrew for "there is recompense" or "man of hire," finds its origin in [Genesis 30:18](/genesis/30-18 "Genesis 30:18 - Leah Names Issachar"), where Leah, after bearing him, declared, "God has given me my hire (reward)." This name suggests a connection to hard work, diligence, and divine reward. Jacob's later prophecy in [Genesis 49:14-15](/genesis/49-14-15 "Genesis 49:14-15 - Jacob's Prophecy for Issachar") describes Issachar as "a strong donkey, crouching between the sheepfolds," willing to "bow his shoulder to bear, and become a slave at forced labor." This imagery has often been interpreted to mean that Issachar would be a hardworking, perhaps peace-loving tribe, willing to endure toil for the sake of prosperity or stability. In the context of Numbers 2:5, Issachar's specific placement highlights its distinct, divinely ordained role within the larger Israelite community's ordered structure.
* **Nethaneel (Hebrew, _Nᵉthanʼêl'_):** This name literally means "given of God" or "Gift of God." It is a theophoric name, incorporating "El" (God), which was common in ancient Israel and served as a constant reminder of divine providence and blessing. The fact that a leader's name explicitly declares him a "gift of God" underscores the biblical understanding that true authority and leadership are ultimately derived from God. Nethaneel, son of Zuar, is listed among the tribal leaders chosen to assist Moses and Aaron in the census (Numbers 1:8) and later played a significant role in the dedication of the Tabernacle (Numbers 7:18-23), indicating his importance and divine appointment as a steward of God's people.
* **captain (Hebrew, _nâsîyʼ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to exalt" or "to lift up," this term properly refers to "an exalted one," such as a king, prince, or chief. In the context of the Israelite tribes, a _nasiyʼ_ was a tribal head or leader, holding significant authority and responsibility. This title signifies not merely a military commander but a civil and spiritual head who represented his tribe before God and Moses, and who was responsible for the well-being and governance of his people. The use of this term emphasizes the divinely established hierarchy and the importance of strong, recognized leadership within the Israelite community, ensuring order and accountability.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And those that do pitch next unto him [shall be] the tribe of Issachar:"** This clause precisely specifies the location of the tribe of Issachar within the meticulously designed Israelite encampment. "Next unto him" refers directly to the tribe of Judah, which was the leading tribe of the eastern division. This positioning meant Issachar was immediately to the north of Judah on the east side of the Tabernacle. This precise instruction highlights God's meticulous attention to detail and His desire for an ordered, harmonious community. It also signifies that each tribe had a distinct, divinely appointed place and function within the larger body of Israel, contributing to the overall structure and disciplined movement of the nation.
* **"and Nethaneel the son of Zuar [shall be] captain of the children of Issachar."** This part of the verse identifies the specific, divinely appointed leader for the tribe of Issachar. Nethaneel, the son of Zuar, is named as their "captain" (Hebrew: _nasiyʼ_). The term _nasiyʼ_ denotes a prince or chief, indicating a position of significant authority and responsibility, not only in military matters but also in civil and spiritual leadership. This highlights the importance of established, recognized leadership within the Israelite community. The naming of the captain, along with his father's name, underscores the specific, individual appointment by God for this vital role, ensuring accountability, continuity, and divine sanction in the governance of the tribe.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 2:5, as an integral part of the broader chapter, employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Order** and **Structure**. The entire chapter is a testament to God's meticulous organization, detailing the precise arrangement of tribes, standards, and leaders. This reflects a fundamental divine characteristic – God is a God of order, not chaos or confusion (cf. [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")). The **Repetition** of the formula "And those that do pitch next unto him [shall be] the tribe of [X]: and [Y] the son of [Z] [shall be] captain of the children of [X]" throughout the chapter emphasizes the systematic, divinely mandated, and unwavering nature of the encampment's design. Furthermore, the encampment itself serves as powerful **Symbolism**. The Tabernacle, God's sacred dwelling, at the very center, surrounded by the tribes, profoundly symbolizes God's absolute centrality to the life, identity, and mission of Israel. The ordered arrangement of the tribes around the sacred dwelling reinforces the idea of a covenant people living in disciplined fellowship under God's sovereign rule, with each part contributing harmoniously to the whole.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 2:5, within its broader context, profoundly illustrates God's character as a God of order, intentionality, and sovereign care for His people. The meticulous arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle signifies that God's holy presence is the absolute center of His people's lives, and all human activity, community structure, and national identity should revolve around Him. This divine blueprint also underscores the importance of delegated authority and the necessity of godly leadership for the well-being, spiritual flourishing, and effective movement of the community. Every tribe, regardless of its size or historical prominence, had a specific, divinely appointed place and purpose, highlighting the intrinsic value of each member within God's larger design. This principle of divine order, the centrality of God's presence, and the importance of appointed leadership is a recurring theme throughout biblical theology, demonstrating how God brings harmony out of potential chaos, and how His people are called to reflect His ordered, purposeful nature in their communal life.

* [1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "Order in the Church")
* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "God's Dwelling Among Israel")
* [Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Obeying Spiritual Leaders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed instructions for Israel's encampment in Numbers 2, and specifically the positioning of Issachar and the naming of Nethaneel, offer profound and enduring insights for contemporary believers. Just as God had a precise place and purpose for each tribe within the ancient Israelite community, so too does He have a unique plan and calling for every individual within the body of Christ today. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that our personal lives, our families, and our churches should strive to reflect His divine design. Centering our lives around God's presence, as symbolized by the Tabernacle, means prioritizing His Word, His will, and His glory above all else, making Him the undeniable focal point of our existence. Furthermore, the appointment of Nethaneel highlights the enduring importance of godly, Spirit-appointed leadership within the community of faith. We are called to recognize, respect, and support those whom God has placed in positions of spiritual authority, understanding that their role is vital for maintaining discipline, guiding the flock in truth, and facilitating the collective pursuit of God's purposes. Understanding our unique place within God's divine order empowers us to contribute effectively to the greater purpose of His kingdom, living in harmony, disciplined obedience, and joyful service.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous divine order described in Numbers 2 challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character and His involvement in the details of your life?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as individuals and as a spiritual community, better center our lives and activities around God's presence and His authoritative Word?**
* **How can we actively recognize, honor, and support godly leadership within our own spiritual communities, mirroring the divine appointment seen in Nethaneel?**

### FAQ
**Why was the Israelite encampment so precisely ordered?**

Answer: The precise ordering of the Israelite encampment, as detailed in [Numbers 2](/numbers/2 "Numbers 2 - The Order of the Tribes"), served multiple crucial purposes. Theologically, it profoundly emphasized God's holiness and His desire for order among His people, reflecting His own character as a God of order, not confusion or disarray. Logistically, with a population potentially exceeding two million people, such an arrangement was absolutely essential for preventing chaos, maintaining sanitation, and facilitating efficient movement during their arduous wilderness journey. Spiritually, it reinforced the absolute centrality of the Tabernacle – God's dwelling place – to the life of the nation. Every tribe's position relative to the Tabernacle underscored that God was the heart of their existence, constantly reminding them of His abiding presence and their covenant relationship with Him. This order also ensured that the Tabernacle and its sacred vessels were protected and cared for, as highlighted in [Numbers 1:52-53](/numbers/1-52-53 "Numbers 1:52-53 - The Levites' Encampment around the Tabernacle"), where the Levites were specifically charged with encamping around the Tabernacle itself.

**What is the significance of Issachar's position on the east side?**

Answer: Issachar's position on the east side of the Tabernacle, "next unto" the tribe of Judah, placed it within the leading and most prominent division of the Israelite camp. The eastern side was considered particularly significant in ancient Near Eastern cultures, often associated with new beginnings, the rising sun, and the primary entrance to sacred spaces, as the Tabernacle's entrance faced east. Furthermore, when the camp broke down for travel, the division of Judah, which included Issachar and Zebulun, was the first to set out (see [Numbers 10:14](/numbers/10-14 "Numbers 10:14 - Judah's Division Leads the March")). This strategic placement meant that Issachar, though not the leading tribe, was an integral and active part of the vanguard, playing a crucial role in the movement and direction of the entire nation. It signified their active participation and responsibility within the divinely ordered journey, at the forefront of Israel's progress.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous divine order and the centrality of the Tabernacle in Numbers 2:5 find their ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, as the dwelling place of God among His people, was a profound type pointing to the incarnation, where God literally "tabernacled" or "dwelt" among us in the person of Jesus [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). He is the ultimate center of God's new covenant community, the Church, around whom all of life and worship revolve. Just as each tribe had a specific place and function within the ordered camp, so too in Christ's body, the Church, every believer is given a unique gift and purpose by the Holy Spirit, contributing to the harmonious and effective functioning of the whole [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ, Many Members, One Body"). The divinely appointed captain Nethaneel, leading the tribe of Issachar, beautifully foreshadows Christ as the ultimate Captain of our salvation [Hebrews 2:10](/hebrews/2-10 "Hebrews 2:10 - Jesus, the Captain of Salvation"), the supreme Head of the Church [Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ, Head of the Church"), who perfectly leads, guides, and governs His people. The wilderness journey of Israel, guided by divine order and presence, is a powerful metaphor for the Christian walk, where believers are led by Christ through this world towards the heavenly rest He has secured for us [Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1-11 "The Promise of Rest"). Thus, Numbers 2:5, with its emphasis on divine order, central presence, and appointed leadership, powerfully anticipates the new spiritual reality found in Christ and His Church.

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 1:8

Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

Numbers 7:18

On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:

Numbers 7:23

And 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.

Numbers 10:15

And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar [was] Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

Numbers 1:28

Of the children of Issachar, by their generations, after their families, by the house of their fathers, according to the number of the names, from twenty years old and upward, all that were able to go forth to war;

Numbers 1:29

Those that were numbered of them, [even] of the tribe of Issachar, [were] fifty and four thousand and four hundred.

Numbers 26:23

[Of] the sons of Issachar after their families: [of] Tola, the family of the Tolaites: of Pua, the family of the Punites: