What is the meaning of Numbers 10:6?

When you sound the short blasts a second time

• God had Moses craft two silver trumpets for precise communication (Numbers 10:1–2).

• A “short blast” (literally, “teruah”) is a sharp, rapid series of sounds distinct from the prolonged trumpet call that gathered the whole congregation (Numbers 10:3–4).

• The “second time” underscores ordered movement; God is not a God of chaos but of clear sequence (1 Corinthians 14:40; Psalm 37:23).

• These audible cues ensured every tribe could act in unity, reflecting how the Lord leads His people step by step (Exodus 40:36–38).

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the camps that lie on the south side are to set out

• Israel’s encampment was arranged by divine command:

– East: Judah, Issachar, Zebulun (Numbers 2:3–9)

– South: Reuben, Simeon, Gad (Numbers 2:10–16)

– West: Ephraim, Manasseh, Benjamin (Numbers 2:18–24)

– North: Dan, Asher, Naphtali (Numbers 2:25–31)

• After the eastward standard moved first (signaled by the first short blast, Numbers 10:5), the southern tribes followed.

• Their obedience preserved order in the wilderness march and safeguarded the central position of the tabernacle (Numbers 2:17).

• God’s people learn to move only when and how He directs (Deuteronomy 1:33; Psalm 32:8).

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The blasts are to signal them to set out

• The trumpet served as a divinely appointed means of direction and assurance that the Lord Himself initiated the journey (Numbers 10:11–13).

• Clear signals prevent confusion—echoing Jesus’ words, “My sheep hear My voice… and they follow Me” (John 10:3–4).

• The concept of a trumpet call continues through Scripture as a picture of God summoning His people—whether to worship (Psalm 98:6), to battle (Joshua 6:4–5), or ultimately to resurrection glory (1 Thessalonians 4:16).

• By trusting the signal, Israel demonstrated faith that the same God who guided them also protected and provided for them (Exodus 13:21–22).

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summary

Numbers 10:6 highlights God’s orderly leadership. A second series of short blasts directed the southern camp—Reuben, Simeon, and Gad—to break camp and follow the eastern tribes. The trumpet ensured unity, obedience, and confidence that every move originated with the Lord. In all ages, God’s people thrive when they listen for His clear guidance and move together at His command.