King James Version
Numbers 10
36 verses with commentary
The Silver Trumpets
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God commands Moses to make two silver trumpets, establishing divinely ordained means of communication and worship. The Hebrew 'chatsotsrah' (חֲצֹצְרָה) refers to long, straight metal trumpets distinct from the curved rams' horn (shofar). These instruments were to be 'of a whole piece of beaten work,' symbolizing unity and careful craftsmanship in worship. The trumpets served both sacred functions ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**6-9. Moses took the wagons and the oxen--**The Hebrew word seems to be fairly rendered by the word "wagons." Wheel carriages of some kind are certainly intended; and as they were covered, the best idea we can form of them is, that they bore some resemblance to our covered wagons. That wheel carriages were anciently used in Egypt, and in what is now Asiatic Turkey, is attested, not only by histor...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →Make thee two trumpets of silver; of a whole piece shalt thou make them: that thou mayest use them for the calling of the assembly, and for the journeying of the camps.
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KJV Study Commentary
God's command to make two silver trumpets for calling assemblies and directing camp movements demonstrates His orderly direction of His people. The silver material (precious metal refined by fire) symbolized redemption and purity. These trumpets were priestly instruments, blown by Aaron's sons, showing that divine direction came through appointed mediators. The dual purpose (assembly and travel) i...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
X.
(2) **Of a whole piece.**—Better, *of beaten *(or, *turned*)* work. *(See Notes on Exodus 25:18; Exodus 25:31.) The trumpets here spoken of are supposed to have been straight, like that on the triumphal arch of Titus at Rome and on the old Egyptian monuments. In this respect the *hazozerah *is supposed to have differed from the cornet or horn, *keren *or *shophar *(which is interchanged with *k...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10-11. the princes offered for dedicating of the altar, &c.--**"Altar" is here used in the singular for the plural; for it is evident, from the kind of offerings, that the altars of burnt offering and incense are both referred to. This was not the first or proper dedication of those altars, which had been made by Moses and Aaron some time before [Le 8:11]. But it might be considered an addit...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →And when they shall blow with them, all the assembly shall assemble themselves to thee at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
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KJV Study Commentary
The command 'when they shall blow with them, all the assembly shall assemble themselves to thee at the door of the tabernacle' establishes the trumpet's function for holy convocation. The Hebrew <em>taka</em> (blow) indicates sustained, ceremonial blowing for gathering. The trumpets called God's people to His presence at the meeting place, symbolizing divine summons to worship. This prefigures gos...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10-11. the princes offered for dedicating of the altar, &c.--**"Altar" is here used in the singular for the plural; for it is evident, from the kind of offerings, that the altars of burnt offering and incense are both referred to. This was not the first or proper dedication of those altars, which had been made by Moses and Aaron some time before [Le 8:11]. But it might be considered an addit...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →And if they blow but with one trumpet, then the princes, which are heads of the thousands of Israel, shall gather themselves unto thee.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The different trumpet signals—one trumpet for princes, both trumpets for all the congregation—demonstrates organized communication through established signals. The Hebrew <em>taka echad</em> (blow one) versus <em>taka shtayim</em> (blow two) created distinct summons. This teaches that effective corporate life requires clear communication and understood signals. The church similarly needs clear tea...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4) **With one trumpet.**—Or, *but once *(or, *at the same time*)*. *(Comp. Job 33:14; Proverbs 28:18; Jeremiah 10:8.) Some suppose that the meaning is that the trumpets were to be blown at the same time with one even or uniform sound, and that not a continuous one.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →When ye blow an alarm, then the camps that lie on the east parts shall go forward.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The alarm signal 'when ye blow an alarm' (Hebrew <em>teruah</em>—sharp, staccato blast) differed from the sustained gathering call. The alarm signaled movement or danger, requiring urgent response. The distinction between ceremonial gathering (long blast) and urgent alarm (short blasts) taught Israel to discern different divine calls. This parallels spiritual discernment between regular means of g...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) **When ye blow an alarm.**—The word *teruah, alarm, *is supposed to denote a loud and continuous blast, by which the signal for the moving of the camps was distinguished from those which were used for the summoning of the congregation, or of the princes (Numbers 10:7). In the former of these cases some suppose that both trumpets were blown, and in the latter only one (Numbers 10:4 and Note. Co...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →When ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the south side shall take their journey: they shall blow an alarm for their journeys.
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KJV Study Commentary
The directional marching—'when ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the south side shall take their journey'—shows precise order in Israel's movements. Each trumpet alarm signaled specific tribes to march. This military precision reflects divine order, not chaos. God's people move according to His command, not human impulse. The principle extends to church life: missions, c...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →But when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm.
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KJV Study Commentary
The distinction 'but when the congregation is to be gathered together, ye shall blow, but ye shall not sound an alarm' establishes different signals for different purposes. The Hebrew <em>kahal</em> (gather the assembly) versus <em>teruah</em> (alarm) prevented confusion. Clear signals enabled proper response. This teaches that different circumstances require different approaches in church life. P...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(7) **But ye shall not sound an alarm.**—A clear and intelligible distinction was to be made between the summons to the princes, or to the congregation, to assemble at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and the signal for the moving of the camps. So the gospel trumpet must at no time give an uncertain sound (1Corinthians 14:8), but must be used faithfully and diligently by the spiritual watchmen,...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →And the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall blow with the trumpets; and they shall be to you for an ordinance for ever throughout your generations.
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KJV Study Commentary
The law 'the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall blow with the trumpets' reserves this function for authorized ministers. The Hebrew <em>hakohanim</em> (the priests) emphasizes exclusive priestly prerogative. Laymen could not usurp this role. This teaches the principle of authorized ministry—not all believers exercise all functions. New Testament maintains distinctions: all believers are priests (1 ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(8) **And the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall blow with the trumpets.**—As Aaron had only two sons at this time, there was need only of two trumpets. In most of the places in which the word *hazozerah *(trumpet) occurs (as, *e.g., *Numbers 31:6; 1Chronicles 15:24), this instrument appears to have been used by the priests. There are cases, however, in the later history (as 2Kings 11:14; 1Chronicl...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →And if ye go to war in your land against the enemy that oppresseth you, then ye shall blow an alarm with the trumpets; and ye shall be remembered before the LORD your God, and ye shall be saved from your enemies.
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KJV Study Commentary
The command to blow an alarm when going to war 'against the enemy that oppresseth you' with the promise 'ye shall be remembered before the LORD your God, and ye shall be saved from your enemies' reveals God's covenantal commitment to defend His people. The trumpet call represented an appeal to God's promise of protection, not merely a military signal. This teaches that spiritual warfare requires p...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9) **And if ye go** **to war.**—Better, *And when ye shall go to war. *In Numbers 31:6 we read that in the war against the Midianites, Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, had these trumpets of alarm (*hazozeroth*) in his hand. So also Abijah, in his address to Jeroboam, previously to the battle, lays great stress upon the fact that Judah had on their side the priests with the trumpets of alarm (2Chroni...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12-17. He that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon ... of the tribe of Judah, &c.--**Judah having had the precedence assigned to it, the prince or head of that tribe was the first admitted to offer as its representative; and his offering, as well as that of the others, is thought, from its costliness, to have been furnished not from his own private means, but from the general cont...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →Also in the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I am the LORD your God.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The command to blow trumpets on appointed feasts and new moons 'over your burnt offerings and peace offerings' shows that worship involves joyful celebration, not merely solemn duty. The trumpets served as 'a memorial before your God,' reminding Israel of God's covenant faithfulness and prompting Him to remember them. This teaches that worship includes both remembering God's works and appealing to...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) In **the day of your gladness.**—As, *e.g., *at the dedication of Solomon’s temple (2Chronicles 5:13), and at the cleansing of the Temple by Hezekiah (2Chronicles 29:27-28). Compare Psalm 98:6.
**For a memorial.**—Compare Leviticus 23:24.
**Before your God: I am the Lord your God.**—Or, *Before your God, *(even) *before me, Jehovah, your God. *(Comp. Numbers 3:13 and Note.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 10
Chapter Outline
The silver trumpets.(1-10)
The Israelites remove from Sinai to Paran.(11-28)
Hobab entreated by Moses to continue.(29-32)
The blessing pronounced by Moses.(33-36)
**Verses 1-10**
Here are directions concerning the public notices to be given the people by sound of trumpet. Their laws in every case were to be Divine, therefore, even in this matter...
Read full commentary →Israel Leaves Sinai
And it came to pass on the twentieth day of the second month, in the second year, that the cloud was taken up from off the tabernacle of the testimony.
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KJV Study Commentary
After remaining at Sinai for approximately eleven months, the cloud finally lifted, signaling it was time to march toward Canaan. The specific dating—'the twentieth day of the second month, in the second year'—anchors this momentous departure in historical precision. This departure from Sinai represented a major transition: Israel had received the Law, constructed the tabernacle, organized their t...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11) **On the twentieth day of the second month.**—It appears from Exodus 19:1 that the Israelites encamped before Mount Sinai in the third month of the preceding year, and, as is generally supposed, on the first day of the month. In this case the encampment at the foot of Mount Sinai had lasted eleven months and nineteen days. No day of the month, however, is specified in Exod. xix 1, and no *cer...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the children of Israel took their journeys out of the wilderness of Sinai; and the cloud rested in the wilderness of Paran.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The children of Israel took their journeys out of the wilderness of Sinai</strong> (נָסַע <em>nasa'</em>, to pull up tent pegs, journey)—After nearly one year camped at Sinai receiving the law, tabernacle instructions, and priestly ordination (Exodus 19–Numbers 10), Israel finally resumed the Exodus march. <strong>The cloud rested in the wilderness of Paran</strong> (עָנָן <em>anan</em>, c...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(12) **And the cloud rested in the wilderness of Paran.**—The fact is here mentioned by way of anticipation (see Numbers 10:33). The spot referred to is probably Kibroth-hattaavah, which may have been at the southernmost extremity of the wilderness of Paran. In Deuteronomy 1:19 it is called “that great and terrible wilderness.” This wilderness is supposed to have been bounded by the land of Canaan...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And they first took their journey according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>They first took their journey according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of Moses</strong> (פִּי־יְהוָה <em>pi-YHWH</em>, mouth of the LORD)—The literal Hebrew is "by the mouth of the LORD," emphasizing verbal command. <strong>By the hand of Moses</strong> (בְּיַד־מֹשֶׁה <em>beyad-Moshe</em>)—Moses functioned as the mediating agent transmitting divine directives. Every stage of t...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →In the first place went the standard of the camp of the children of Judah according to their armies: and over his host was Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>In the first place went the standard of the camp of the children of Judah</strong> (דֶּגֶל <em>degel</em>, standard/banner)—Judah led the march by divine appointment, previewing their royal preeminence. Jacob's blessing prophesied "the scepter shall not depart from Judah" (Genesis 49:10); their vanguard position enacted this destiny. <strong>According to their armies</strong> (צְבָאֹתָם <e...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar.</strong> This verse is part of the detailed record of Israel's tribal organization during wilderness wanderings. The phrase "over the host" (<em>al-tzeva</em>, עַל־צְבָא) indicates military command—each tribe was organized as an army unit under designated leadership. "Host" (<em>tzava</em>, צָבָא) mea...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon</strong>—Zebulun marched as part of Judah's division (2:3-9), positioned on the east side of the tabernacle. Jacob's blessing called Zebulun a "haven for ships" dwelling at the shore (Genesis 49:13), yet here they march through waterless wilderness. Their tribal identity looked forward to maritime commerce, bu...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari set forward, bearing the tabernacle.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The tabernacle was taken down; and the sons of Gershon and the sons of Merari set forward, bearing the tabernacle.</strong> The march order begins with the disassembly and transport of the <em>mishkan</em> (מִשְׁכָּן, dwelling place). The Gershonites and Merarites carried the tabernacle structure—curtains, coverings, frames, and pillars—immediately after Judah's vanguard departed. This str...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(17) **And the tabernacle was taken down . . . —**The order of precedence as regards the twelve tribes which were encamped on the four sides of the Tabernacle is clearly laid down in Numbers 2, where it is ordered that the camp of the Lervites should set forward “in the midst of the camps” (Numbers 10:17). The precise position which the three bodies of Levites were to occupy in the marches is defi...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the standard of the camp of Reuben set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elizur the son of Shedeur.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The standard of the camp of Reuben set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elizur the son of Shedeur.</strong> Reuben's division marched second, behind Judah but ahead of the tabernacle infrastructure. The <em>degel</em> (דֶּגֶל, "standard" or banner) identified each tribal division, providing rallying points and maintaining order during movement. Though Reuben was Jac...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Simeon was Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Simeon was Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.</strong> Simeon marched with Reuben's division, under their commander Shelumiel (שְׁלֻמִיאֵל, "God is my peace"). The name ironically contrasts Simeon's violent history—Jacob cursed Simeon and Levi for their fierce anger and cruel wrath at Shechem (Genesis 34, 49:5-7). Yet God's renaming through lead...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.</strong> Gad completed Reuben's southern division under commander Eliasaph (אֶלְיָסָף, "God has added"). Born to Jacob through Leah's maidservant Zilpah, Gad received the blessing "a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last" (Genesis 49:19)—a prophecy of resilience and ultimate victory despi...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the Kohathites set forward, bearing the sanctuary: and the other did set up the tabernacle against they came. the other: that is, the Gershonites and the Merarites
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The Kohathites set forward, bearing the sanctuary: and the other did set up the tabernacle against they came.</strong> The Kohathites marched in the assembly's center, carrying the <em>miqdash</em> (מִקְדָּשׁ, "sanctuary")—the holy furniture including the ark, table, lampstand, and altars. Unlike the Gershonites and Merarites who used wagons, Kohathites bore their sacred burden on their sh...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the standard of the camp of the children of Ephraim set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elishama the son of Ammihud.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The standard of the camp of the children of Ephraim set forward according to their armies: and over his host was Elishama the son of Ammihud.</strong> Ephraim's division marched third, after the tabernacle structure but before the rear guard. Despite being Joseph's younger son, Ephraim received Jacob's preferential blessing (Genesis 48:17-20), and his tribe became dominant in the northern ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Manasseh was Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Manasseh was Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.</strong> Manasseh, Joseph's firstborn, marched with Ephraim's division under Gamaliel (גַּמְלִיאֵל, "God is my reward"). Though Manasseh was Jacob's firstborn grandson through Joseph, he received the lesser blessing when Jacob crossed his hands, placing his right hand on Ephraim (Genesis 48:14). Yet Ma...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Benjamin was Abidan the son of Gideoni.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Benjamin was Abidan the son of Gideoni.</strong> Benjamin completed Ephraim's western division under Abidan (אֲבִידָן, "my father is judge"). Benjamin, Rachel's youngest son and Jacob's beloved, received a fierce blessing: "Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf: in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil" (Genesis ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And the standard of the camp of the children of Dan set forward, which was the rereward of all the camps throughout their hosts: and over his host was Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The standard of the camp of the children of Dan set forward, which was the rereward of all the camps throughout their hosts: and over his host was Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.</strong> Dan marched last as the <em>me'assef</em> (מְאַסֵּף, "rereward" or "rear guard"), gathering stragglers and protecting the assembly's back. The Hebrew term suggests "gathering" or "collecting"—Dan swept up...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher was Pagiel the son of Ocran.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Asher was Pagiel the son of Ocran.</strong> Asher marched with Dan's rear guard division under Pagiel (פַּגְעִיאֵל, "God meets" or "God encounters"). Asher, born to Jacob through Leah's maidservant Zilpah, received an abundant blessing: "Out of Asher his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties" (Genesis 49:20). The name Asher mean...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And over the host of the tribe of the children of Naphtali was Ahira the son of Enan.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Over the host of the tribe of the children of Naphtali was Ahira the son of Enan.</strong> Naphtali completed Dan's rear guard division under Ahira (אֲחִירַע, "my brother is evil" or "my brother is a friend"—the meaning is debated). Naphtali, born to Jacob through Rachel's maidservant Bilhah, received an elegant blessing: "Naphtali is a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words" (Genesis 49:2...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →Thus were the journeyings of the children of Israel according to their armies, when they set forward. Thus: Heb. These
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Thus were the journeyings of the children of Israel according to their armies, when they set forward.</strong> This summarizing verse uses <em>masse'ê</em> (מַסְעֵי, "journeyings") to describe Israel's coordinated movements—the same term that titles Numbers' final section listing all forty-two encampments (Numbers 33:1). The phrase <em>le-tsiv'otam</em> (לְצִבְאֹתָם, "according to their ar...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(28) **When they set forward.**—Better, *and they set forward.*
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 11-28**
After the Israelites had continued nearly a year at mount Sinai, and all was settled respecting their future worship, they began their march to Canaan. True religion begins with the knowledge of the holy law of God, and humiliation for sin, but we must go on towards perfection, in acquaintance with Christ and his gospel, and those effectual encouragements, motives, and assista...
Read full commentary →And Moses said unto Hobab, the son of Raguel the Midianite, Moses' father in law, We are journeying unto the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you: come thou with us, and we will do thee good: for the LORD hath spoken good concerning Israel.
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KJV Study Commentary
Moses invites his brother-in-law Hobab (also called Reuel/Jethro) to accompany Israel to the Promised Land, promising 'we will do thee good: for the LORD hath spoken good concerning Israel.' This invitation reveals several truths: (1) God's blessing on Israel could extend to associated Gentiles who aligned themselves with God's people; (2) The promise of doing good to others reflects covenant bles...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(29) **Hobab, the son of Raguel the Midianite, Moses’ father in law.**—Raguel is the same as Reuel (Exodus 2:18), and the orthography should be the same in all places. Reuel is commonly supposed to be identical with Jether (Exodus 4:18), or Jethro (Exodus 3:1), who is frequently described as the *hothen *(in the Authorised Version, “father-in-law”) of Moses (Numbers 18:2; Numbers 18:5-6, &c.). But...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-32**
Moses invites his kindred to go to Canaan. Those that are bound for the heavenly Canaan, should ask and encourage their friends to go with them: we shall have none the less of the joys of heaven, for others coming to share with us. It is good having fellowship with those who have fellowship with God. But the things of this world, which are seen, draw strongly from the pursuit ...
Read full commentary →And he said unto him, I will not go; but I will depart to mine own land, and to my kindred.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And he said unto him, I will not go; but I will depart to mine own land, and to my kindred</strong>—Hobab's (חֹבָב, <em>Ḥōḇāḇ</em>) initial refusal reveals the tension between natural family loyalty and divine calling. His desire to return to Midian (<em>miḏyān</em>) mirrors our struggle between comfort and faith. Moses' plea (v. 31-32) transforms this from mere pragmatism into covenant in...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(30) **And he said unto him, I will not go . . . —**It is not expressly stated in the narrative whether Hobab did or did not ultimately accompany the Israelites on their march. It appears most probable, however, that the renewed solicitation of Moses proved effectual. In any case, it is certain from Judges 1:16 that the Kenites, as a body, “went up out of the city of palm trees with the children o...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-32**
Moses invites his kindred to go to Canaan. Those that are bound for the heavenly Canaan, should ask and encourage their friends to go with them: we shall have none the less of the joys of heaven, for others coming to share with us. It is good having fellowship with those who have fellowship with God. But the things of this world, which are seen, draw strongly from the pursuit ...
Read full commentary →And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness</strong>—Moses appeals to Hobab's practical knowledge: <strong>thou mayest be to us instead of eyes</strong> (וְהָיִ֥יתָ לָּ֖נוּ לְעֵינָ֑יִם, <em>wəhāyîṯā lānū ləʿênayim</em>). This phrase acknowledges human instrumentality within divine guidance—the pillar of cloud led Israel, yet human wisdom rema...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(31) **How we are to encamp . . . —**It is clear from these words, as well as from many indications of the same nature, that notwithstanding the direct guidance which was vouchsafed from heaven, and the miraculous interpositions of Providence which the Israelites experienced throughout their journeys, Moses did not neglect to take advantage of all the ordinary precautions of which it was incumbent...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-32**
Moses invites his kindred to go to Canaan. Those that are bound for the heavenly Canaan, should ask and encourage their friends to go with them: we shall have none the less of the joys of heaven, for others coming to share with us. It is good having fellowship with those who have fellowship with God. But the things of this world, which are seen, draw strongly from the pursuit ...
Read full commentary →And it shall be, if thou go with us, yea, it shall be, that what goodness the LORD shall do unto us, the same will we do unto thee.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And it shall be, if thou go with us, yea, it shall be, that what goodness the LORD shall do unto us, the same will we do unto thee</strong>—Moses offers covenant inclusion: the Hebrew repetition (<em>wəhāyāh kî-tēlēḵ ʿimmānū wəhāyāh haṭṭôḇ hahûʾ</em>) emphasizes certainty and reciprocity. <em>Ṭôḇ</em> (טוֹב, 'goodness') refers not merely to material blessing but to covenant participation i...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-32**
Moses invites his kindred to go to Canaan. Those that are bound for the heavenly Canaan, should ask and encourage their friends to go with them: we shall have none the less of the joys of heaven, for others coming to share with us. It is good having fellowship with those who have fellowship with God. But the things of this world, which are seen, draw strongly from the pursuit ...
Read full commentary →And they departed from the mount of the LORD three days' journey: and the ark of the covenant of the LORD went before them in the three days' journey, to search out a resting place for them.
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KJV Study Commentary
The ark 'went before them in the three days' journey, to search out a resting place for them.' The Hebrew 'tur' (search out/spy) shows the ark leading Israel to safe encampments. Though God's presence filled the tabernacle, the ark went ahead, demonstrating God's protective leadership. This foreshadows Christ who goes before His sheep, making paths straight (John 10:4, Heb 6:20 'forerunner'). The ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(33) **Three days’ journey.—**The place at which the first protracted halt was made appears to have been either at Taberah, which means *burning, *or at Kibroth-hattaavah, *the graves of lust. *(Comp. Numbers 11:3; Numbers 33:16; see also Note on Numbers 11:34.)
**And the ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them.—**It has been inferred from the fact that the Kohathites had the charge of th...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 33-36**
Their going out and coming in, gives an example to us to begin and end every day's journey and every day's work with prayer. Here is Moses's prayer when the ark set forward, "Rise up, and let thine enemies be scattered." There are those in the world who are enemies to God and haters of him; secret and open enemies; enemies to his truths, his laws, his ordinances, his people. B...
Read full commentary →And the cloud of the LORD was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the cloud of the LORD was upon them by day, when they went out of the camp</strong>—The עֲנַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה (<em>ʿănan YHWH</em>, cloud of the LORD) provided both guidance and protection during Israel's journeys. This marks the departure from Sinai, where Israel had camped for nearly a year receiving the Law. The cloud's presence 'by day' (<em>yômām</em>) paired with the pillar of fire by n...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 33-36**
Their going out and coming in, gives an example to us to begin and end every day's journey and every day's work with prayer. Here is Moses's prayer when the ark set forward, "Rise up, and let thine enemies be scattered." There are those in the world who are enemies to God and haters of him; secret and open enemies; enemies to his truths, his laws, his ordinances, his people. B...
Read full commentary →And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
When the ark set out, Moses proclaimed, 'Rise up, LORD, and let thine enemies be scattered.' This prayer acknowledges God's presence symbolized by the ark and invokes His power against Israel's enemies. The verb 'Rise up' (Hebrew 'qumah,' קוּמָה) is an imperative plea for God to arise in power and action, common in psalms of deliverance. Moses' prayer recognizes that Israel's enemies are ultimatel...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(35-36) **And it came to pass . . . —**It appears from these words that the marches of the Israelites began and ended with prayer, a significant lesson to the Church of all after ages. It is deserving of observation that the prayers were offered by Moses, not by Aaron. The inverted *nuns, *or parenthetical marks, which are found in a large number of Hebrew manuscripts at the beginning and end of t...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 33-36**
Their going out and coming in, gives an example to us to begin and end every day's journey and every day's work with prayer. Here is Moses's prayer when the ark set forward, "Rise up, and let thine enemies be scattered." There are those in the world who are enemies to God and haters of him; secret and open enemies; enemies to his truths, his laws, his ordinances, his people. B...
Read full commentary →And when it rested, he said, Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel. many thousands: Heb. ten thousand thousands
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>When it rested, he said, Return, O LORD, unto the many thousands of Israel</strong>—Moses' invocation (שׁוּבָה יְהוָה <em>shuvah YHWH</em>) whenever the cloud halted uses the verb 'return' (שׁוּב), not merely 'remain,' suggesting dynamic divine presence rather than static location. The phrase <strong>many thousands</strong> (רִבְבוֹת אַלְפֵי <em>rivvot alfei</em>, literally 'ten thousands ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-83. On the second day Nethaneel ... prince of Issachar, did offer--**This tribe being stationed on the right side of Judah, offered next through its representative; then Zebulun, which was on the left side; and so on in orderly succession, every tribe making the same kind of offering and in the same amount, to show that, as each was under equal obligation, each rendered an equal tribute. Alth...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 33-36**
Their going out and coming in, gives an example to us to begin and end every day's journey and every day's work with prayer. Here is Moses's prayer when the ark set forward, "Rise up, and let thine enemies be scattered." There are those in the world who are enemies to God and haters of him; secret and open enemies; enemies to his truths, his laws, his ordinances, his people. B...
Read full commentary →