2:1-34 The order of the tribes in their tents. - The tribes were to encamp about the tabernacle, which was to be in the midst of them. It was a token of God's gracious presence. Yet they were to pitch their tents afar off, in reverence to the sanctuary. The children of Israel put themselves in their posts, without murmuring or disputing; and as it was their safety, so it was their beauty. It is our duty and interest to be contented with the place allotted to us, and to endeavour to occupy it in a proper manner, without envying or murmuring; without ambition or covetousness. Thus the gospel church 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.had spoken - Render spake. The formal appointment is only now made, in reward for their zeal Exodus 32:26-29, though reference to their future office appears previously in Leviticus 25:32 ff, and they had already acted as assistants to the priests (compare Exodus 38:21). CHAPTER 2

Nu 2:1-34. The Order of the Tribes in Their Tents.Order for the marches and camping of the tribes, Numbers 2:1,2. Judah on the east side, with Issachar and Zebulun, who led the van, Numbers 2:3-9. Reuben on the south side, with Simeon and Gad; then the tabernacle was to follow, the Levites camping round it, Numbers 2:10-17. Ephraim on the west side, with Manasseh and Benjamin, Numbers 2:18-24. Dan on the north quarter, with Asher and Naphtali, Numbers 2:25-31.

No text from Poole on this verse.

And the Lord spake unto Moses, and unto Aaron,.... Very probably after the number of the children of Israel was taken, of which in the preceding chapter, and when the congregation of Israel with the tabernacle were about to set forward on their journey; and therefore directions are here given for their orderly and regular proceeding in it, in what form and manner they should both encamp and march:

saying: as follows.

And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,