Numbers 1:14

Of Gad; Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Of Gad {H1410}; Eliasaph {H460} the son {H1121} of Deuel {H1845}.

From Gad, Elyasaf the son of De'u'el;

from Gad, Eliasaph son of Deuel;

Of Gad: Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Commentary

Numbers 1:14 identifies Eliasaph the son of Deuel as the appointed leader for the tribe of Gad. This verse is part of a detailed census commanded by God to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai.

Context of Numbers 1:14

This verse is situated within the first chapter of the Book of Numbers, which records a comprehensive census of all Israelite men aged twenty years and upward, who were able to go forth to war (Numbers 1:3). This vital enumeration took place just over a year after the Exodus from Egypt, while the Israelites were encamped at the base of Mount Sinai. The purpose was not merely to count people, but to organize the tribes for military readiness, for their orderly march through the wilderness, and for their assigned positions around the Tabernacle. Each tribe, including the tribe of Gad, had a designated leader, often referred to as a "prince" or "head of a father's house," who would represent his tribal contingent.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Meticulousness: The detailed recording of each tribe and its specific leader, like Eliasaph for Gad, underscores God's profound commitment to order and structure within His people. God is not a God of chaos, but of careful planning and organization.
  • Leadership and Responsibility: Eliasaph's mention highlights the significant role of tribal leaders in ancient Israel. These individuals bore the responsibility of guiding, managing, and representing their respective clans, especially in matters of war and community life. Eliasaph is later seen fulfilling this role, for instance, when he brings an offering for the dedication of the Tabernacle (Numbers 7:42-47).
  • Tribal Identity and Unity: While part of a larger national body, each tribe maintained a distinct identity, led by its own prince. This balance between individual tribal identity and national unity was crucial for the cohesion of the Israelite camp and their future as a nation.

Linguistic Insights

The names mentioned in this verse carry significant meaning in Hebrew:

  • Eliasaph (ืึถืœึฐื™ึธืกึธืฃ): This Hebrew name means "God has added" or "God has gathered." It reflects a common theme in biblical names, acknowledging God's active role in the lives of individuals and families.
  • Deuel (ื“ึฐึผืขื•ึผืึตืœ): Meaning "knowledge of God" or "God knows," this name also emphasizes a relationship with the Divine, suggesting a recognition of God's omniscience or a desire for divine understanding.

Practical Application

While seemingly a simple record of names, Numbers 1:14 offers timeless principles. It reminds us that God values order and preparation in all endeavors. Just as He meticulously organized ancient Israel for their journey and mission, He calls believers today to live with purpose and intentionality. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of faithful leadership within any community, recognizing that those in positions of influence are entrusted with significant responsibility to guide and serve God's people. This verse, though brief, is a testament to God's detailed plan and the specific roles He assigns to individuals within His grand design, even in the seemingly small details of a census.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 2:14 (4 votes)

    Then the tribe of Gad: and the captain of the sons of Gad [shall be] Eliasaph the son of Reuel.

  • Numbers 7:42 (3 votes)

    On the sixth day Eliasaph the son of Deuel, prince of the children of Gad, [offered]:

  • Numbers 10:20 (2 votes)

    And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad [was] Eliasaph the son of Deuel.