Numbers 2:1-34
Q.1. How did God identify each tribal group so that they could more easily find their location for travel and setting up camp? – (Num.2:2, 10, 18, 25 c.f. Num.1:52)
Each tribe in Israel had its own distinctive banner. All the fighting men and their families – shall camp, each man by his own camp, and each man by his own standard, according to their armies (Num.1:52). This has its expression today in local churches from different denominations where we all serve under our own distinctive banner and vision. Every tribe had its – own standard with the banners (literally SIGNS) of their fathers’ households (Num.2:2). As well as this, all were located in a regular position with respect to the tabernacle – on the east side were the tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. On the south side were the tribes of Reuben, Simeon and Gad. On the west side were the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin. On the north side were the tribes of Dan, Asher, and Naphtali (Num.2:1-31). This regular pattern of settlement meant that at each relocation there was no confusion. Even children could be directed according to their tribal origin.
Q.2. Why were the Levites placed in the middle of the army of Israel? – (Num.2:17, 33-34 c.f. Num.1:50-53)
The clear answer is that God said so. Nevertheless, there were benefits from the Tabernacle’s being in a central place. Firstly, this reminded the Israelites that their God was to be in the centre of all their thinking. Secondly, it was easier to protect the Priesthood from enemies, and more importantly, from outside idolatrous influences. Thirdly, it made the worship at the Tabernacle equally accessible to all the tribes.
