King James Version
What Does Numbers 2:14 Mean?
“Then the tribe of Gad: and the captain of the sons of Gad shall be Eliasaph the son of Reuel.”
Numbers 2:14 · KJV
Context
12
And those which pitch by him shall be the tribe of Simeon: and the captain of the children of Simeon shall be Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.
13
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were fifty and nine thousand and three hundred.
14
Then the tribe of Gad: and the captain of the sons of Gad shall be Eliasaph the son of Reuel.
15
And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were forty and five thousand and six hundred and fifty.
16
All that were numbered in the camp of Reuben were an hundred thousand and fifty and one thousand and four hundred and fifty, throughout their armies. And they shall set forth in the second rank.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryGad's camp placement with Reuben and Simeon created a division of tribes that would later choose to settle east of the Jordan (Numbers 32). This early association may have facilitated their later joint decision, illustrating how geographical and social proximity influences shared choices. The principle applies to believers: our associations shape our decisions, making the choice of companions and communities crucial.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Gad's later choice to settle east of the Jordan alongside Reuben and half of Manasseh created ongoing questions about their full commitment to Israel's territorial unity. The eastern tribes' separation from the main body would create ongoing challenges throughout Israel's history.
Reflection Questions
- How does the early association of tribes that later made questionable choices warn us about the formative power of our relationships?
- What does this teach us about the importance of choosing companions who will encourage faithfulness rather than compromise?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsוְמַטֵּ֖ה1 of 8
“Then the tribe”
H4294a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
וְנָשִׂיא֙3 of 8
“and the captain”
H5387properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
בֶּן4 of 8
“of the sons”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בֶּן7 of 8
“of the sons”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
רְעוּאֵֽל׃8 of 8
“of Reuel”
H7467reuel, the name of moses' father-in-law, also of an edomite and an israelite
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 2:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 2:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge