Numbers 2:5

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.

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}.

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

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

Numbers 2:5 is part of a detailed divine blueprint for the encampment of the Israelite tribes in the wilderness. This verse specifically describes the position of the tribe of Issachar within the larger organized camp and names their appointed leader.

Context

Chapter 2 of Numbers meticulously outlines the precise arrangement of the twelve tribes around the Tabernacle, the central dwelling place of God's presence. This elaborate formation was not arbitrary but divinely ordained, emphasizing God's holiness and the importance of order within His people. The tribes were grouped into four divisions, each with a leading tribe, a standard, and a designated captain. Issachar, along with Zebulun, was commanded to pitch on the east side of the Tabernacle, under the standard of Judah. This strategic positioning ensured both order during encampment and efficient movement during their long wilderness journey.

Key Themes

  • Divine Order and Organization: This verse, like the entire chapter, highlights God's meticulous attention to detail and His desire for order among His people. Every tribe had its place, ensuring harmony and preventing chaos. This structure reflected the divine governance over Israel.
  • Community Structure and Leadership: The appointment of Nethaneel, son of Zuar, as the captain of Issachar underscores the importance of clear leadership within the community. Leaders were vital for maintaining discipline, guiding the people, and facilitating their spiritual and practical lives.
  • Proximity to God's Presence: The entire Israelite camp was oriented around the Tabernacle, signifying that God Himself was the center of Israel's life and identity. Even the positioning of tribes like Issachar was relative to this sacred space, reinforcing the idea that God's presence was paramount.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Nethaneel" (Hebrew: ื ึฐืชึทื ึฐืึตืœ, Nethan'el) means "God has given" or "Gift of God." This meaningful name reflects a common biblical theme of acknowledging God as the source of all blessings and individuals. The tribe of "Issachar" (Hebrew: ื™ึดืฉึธึผื‚ืฉื›ึธืจ, Yissakhar) means "there is recompense" or "man of hire," a name connected to Leah's joy at his birth and Jacob's prophecy in Genesis 49:14-15, describing Issachar as a strong donkey bearing burdens, possibly indicating a hardworking and perhaps peace-loving nature.

Practical Application

From this verse, we can glean several insights for today. Just as God had a specific place and purpose for each tribe, He also has a unique plan for each believer and for the collective body of Christ. There is value in order, structure, and recognized leadership within spiritual communities. Furthermore, the centering of the Israelite camp around the Tabernacle serves as a powerful reminder that our lives, families, and churches should always be centered around God's presence and His Word. Understanding our place within God's divine order allows us to contribute effectively to the greater purpose of His kingdom.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:8 (4 votes)

    Of Issachar; Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

  • Numbers 7:18 (3 votes)

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

  • Numbers 7:23 (3 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Numbers 1:28 (2 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Numbers 26:23 (2 votes)

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