Numbers 2:24
The total number of men in the divisions of the camp of Ephraim is 108,100; they shall set out third.
The total number of men in the divisions of the camp of Ephraim

Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph’s younger son, whom Jacob blessed with a greater blessing than his older brother Manasseh (Genesis 48:19). The tribe of Ephraim held a prominent position among the tribes, often leading the northern tribes. The census here reflects the military organization of Israel as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The divisions indicate a structured and orderly approach to their journey, emphasizing God’s command for order and preparation.

1Ch 12:30 From Ephraim: 20,800 mighty men of valor…
Psa 80:2 before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh.…
Gen 48:19 But his father refused. “I know, my son, I know!”…

is 108,100;

Every man counted was twenty years old or older and able to serve in Israel’s army. The combined strength of these three tribes displayed God’s faithfulness in multiplying Jacob’s family into a nation prepared to possess the land He promised.

Num 1:33 those registered to the tribe of Ephraim numbered 40,500.
Num 1:35 those registered to the tribe of Manasseh numbered 32,200.
Num 1:37 those registered to the tribe of Benjamin numbered 35,400.

they shall set out third.

The camp of Ephraim marched after the camps of Judah and Reuben and before the camp of Daniel Israel’s movement through the wilderness was ordered by the Lord, with each tribe assigned a place around the tabernacle and in the march. Ephraim’s leading role among the northern tribes anticipated its later influence in the land, while the whole arrangement taught Israel that strength and security came through obedient submission to God’s command.

Num 10:22 Next, the divisions of the camp of Ephraim…
Num 10:18 Then the divisions of the camp of Reuben set out…
Num 10:14 First, the divisions of the camp of Judah set out…

Persons / Places / Events
1. Ephraim
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Ephraim. This tribe was known for its strength and leadership among the northern tribes.

2. The Camp of Ephraim
Refers to the arrangement of the Israelite tribes during their wilderness journey. Ephraim's camp was positioned on the west side of the tabernacle.

3. The Wilderness Journey
The period when the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land, during which God provided specific instructions for their encampment and movement.
Teaching Points
Order and Structure in God's Plan
God is a God of order, as seen in the specific arrangement of the tribes. This teaches us the importance of structure and organization in our spiritual and daily lives.

Significance of Leadership
Ephraim's position as the third to set out highlights the tribe's leadership role. We are reminded of the importance of stepping into leadership roles when called by God.

Unity and Cooperation
The tribes had to work together, each in their assigned place, to move efficiently. This illustrates the need for unity and cooperation within the body of Christ.

Faithfulness in Following God's Instructions
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions for their camp arrangement is a model of obedience. We are encouraged to faithfully follow God's guidance in our lives.

Legacy and Influence
Ephraim's prominence among the tribes shows how our actions and faithfulness can leave a lasting legacy. We should strive to positively influence those around us.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the arrangement of the Israelite camp reflect God's character and His expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate leadership in our communities, similar to the role of the tribe of Ephraim?

3. How can we ensure that we are contributing to unity and cooperation within our church or community?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are following God's instructions in our daily lives?

5. How can we build a legacy of faithfulness and influence for future generations, as seen in the tribe of Ephraim?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 48
This chapter provides background on Ephraim, where Jacob blesses Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, giving Ephraim the greater blessing despite being the younger.

Joshua 17
Discusses the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim in the Promised Land, highlighting their significant role and territory.

Revelation 7
Ephraim is indirectly referenced in the listing of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel, showing the enduring legacy of the tribes.
The Discipline of God's ArmyD. Young Numbers 2:1-34
The Master At SinaiW. Binnie Numbers 2:1-34
People
Aaron, Abidan, Ahiezer, Ahira, Ammihud, Amminadab, Ammishaddai, Asher, Benjamin, Dan, Deuel, Eliab, Eliasaph, Elishama, Elizur, Enan, Gad, Gamaliel, Gideoni, Helon, Israelites, Issachar, Levites, Manasseh, Moses, Nahshon, Naphtali, Nethaneel, Ocran, Pagiel, Pedahzur, Reuben, Reuel, Shedeur, Shelumiel, Simeon, Zebulun, Zuar, Zurishaddai
Places
Sinai
Topics
100, 108, Camp, Companies, Divisions, Eight, Ephraim, E'phraim, Forth, Forward, Hosts, Hundred, Journey, March, Numbered, Rank, Third, Thousand, Throughout, Total
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Numbers 2:18-23

     7266   tribes of Israel

Library
Numbers
Like the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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