Topical Bible: The Armies of Israel: Divided Into: Van and Rear

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the organization and structure of the armies of Israel are depicted with a level of detail that underscores the importance of military order and strategy in ancient Israelite society. The division of the army into the "van" (vanguard) and "rear" (rearguard) is a notable aspect of this organization, reflecting both practical military tactics and theological symbolism.

Biblical References and Context

The division of the army into van and rear is mentioned in several passages, illustrating the strategic deployment of forces during times of conflict. One such instance is found in the account of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. In Numbers 10:25 , it is recorded: "Finally, the divisions of the camp of Dan set out, under their banner, serving as the rear guard for all the camps, with Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai in command." This passage highlights the role of the tribe of Dan as the rearguard, providing protection and ensuring the safety of the entire assembly as they traveled.

Another significant reference is found in Joshua 6:9 , during the conquest of Jericho: "The armed men went ahead of the priests who blew the trumpets, and the rear guard followed the ark, while the trumpets kept sounding." Here, the strategic placement of the armed men and the rearguard around the Ark of the Covenant emphasizes the sacred nature of the military campaign and the centrality of divine presence in Israel's victories.

Military Strategy and Symbolism

The division into van and rear served practical military purposes. The vanguard, or van, was responsible for leading the march, engaging the enemy first, and clearing the path for the rest of the forces. This position required strength, courage, and readiness to face immediate threats. The rearguard, on the other hand, protected the rear of the formation, safeguarding against surprise attacks and ensuring that no stragglers were left behind. This strategic arrangement allowed for a well-protected and organized movement of troops, crucial for maintaining order and morale.

Beyond the practical, this division also carried theological significance. The positioning of the Ark of the Covenant, often surrounded by the army, symbolized God's presence and guidance. The careful arrangement of the van and rear around the Ark underscored the belief that victory was not solely dependent on military might but on divine favor and obedience to God's commands.

Historical and Cultural Insights

In the broader context of ancient Near Eastern military practices, the division into van and rear was not unique to Israel. Many contemporary armies employed similar tactics to maximize their effectiveness in battle. However, for Israel, this structure was imbued with religious meaning, reflecting their identity as a people chosen and led by God.

The organization of the army also mirrored the tribal structure of Israel, with each tribe having specific roles and responsibilities. This tribal arrangement fostered unity and cooperation among the diverse groups within the nation, reinforcing their collective identity and purpose.

Conclusion

The division of the armies of Israel into van and rear is a testament to the intricate blend of military strategy and theological conviction that characterized ancient Israelite warfare. Through this structure, the Israelites demonstrated their reliance on both human skill and divine intervention, a dual dependence that defined their historical and spiritual journey.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 6:9
And the armed men went before the priests that blew with the trumpets, and the rear guard came after the ark, the priests going on, and blowing with the trumpets.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Battle Without a Sword
... And he divided the three hundred men into three companies ... on the Jehovah revealed
by His acts to Israel. ... mobs of undisciplined men, as Eastern armies are, and ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/a battle without a sword.htm

The Vanguard and Rereward of the Church
... He cast out the heaten also before them, and divided them an ... the rereward." The original
Hebrew is, "God of Israel shall gather you up." Armies in the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the vanguard and rereward of.htm

Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC )
... reorganise the provinces of Philistia and Israel, and received ... league, and had the
Elamite armies, in conjunction ... He divided his army into two forces, one of ...
/.../chapter iiisargon of assyria 722-705.htm

Christ Triumphant
... See how countless their armies, and how fierce their countenances ... nor great, save
only with the King of Israel. ... the text, Christ on the cross divided the spoil ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/christ triumphant.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... in 765 and 755, which brought his armies right up ... that of the avenger destined to
punish Israel for its ... Within, it was divided by walls into five compartments ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... the Cappadocian, the Armenian of the Van inscriptions, and ... of the first rank, who
were divided into two triads ... The Elamite armies were well organized, and under ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... is commonly interpreted "Great Rock," and divided thus"Kap ... Their armies were modelled
on similar lines, and ... Hamath and masters of half Israel, were powerful ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... Cyaxares converted all the small feudal armies which had ... Divided at first by a conflict
between the party of ... task of rewriting the history of Israel, which, as ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
... Creeks directly in front, both fleets and armies facing one ... bore down upon the Greeks
in the rear; a certain ... to terms with him, he penetrated into Attica by ...
/.../chapter iithe last days of 2.htm