King James Version

What Does Numbers 2:7 Mean?

Numbers 2:7 in the King James Version says “Then the tribe of Zebulun: and Eliab the son of Helon shall be captain of the children of Zebulun.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Then the tribe of Zebulun: and Eliab the son of Helon shall be captain of the children of Zebulun.”

Numbers 2:7 · KJV

Context

5

And those that do pitch next unto him shall be the tribe of Issachar: and Nethaneel the son of Zuar shall be captain of the children of Issachar.

6

And his host, and those that were numbered thereof, were fifty and four thousand and four hundred.

7

Then the tribe of Zebulun: and Eliab the son of Helon shall be captain of the children of Zebulun.

8

And his host, and those that were numbered thereof, were fifty and seven thousand and four hundred.

9

All that were numbered in the camp of Judah were an hundred thousand and fourscore thousand and six thousand and four hundred, throughout their armies. These shall first set forth.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Zebulun's inclusion in Judah's division placed this tribe in the position of honor, marching first when Israel traveled. Despite Zebulun's later modest prominence, their front-line position demonstrates that God honors faithful service regardless of worldly recognition. The tribe's leader, Eliab son of Helon, shared in Judah's privileged position, showing that association with faithful leaders brings blessing.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Zebulun's placement with Judah meant they participated in leading Israel's marches and camping first at new locations. This privileged position came through God's sovereign assignment, not tribal merit or achievement.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Zebulun's privileged position despite modest prominence teach us that faithful service, not worldly glory, determines Kingdom honor?
  2. What does this teach us about the blessings that come from association with godly leadership?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
מַטֵּ֖ה1 of 8

“Then the tribe”

H4294

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

זְבוּלֻ֔ן2 of 8

“of Zebulun”

H2074

zebulon, a son of jacob; also his territory and tribe

וְנָשִׂיא֙3 of 8

“shall be captain”

H5387

properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist

בֶּן4 of 8

“of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

זְבוּלֻ֔ן5 of 8

“of Zebulun”

H2074

zebulon, a son of jacob; also his territory and tribe

אֱלִיאָ֖ב6 of 8

“and Eliab”

H446

eliab, the name of six israelites

בֶּן7 of 8

“of the children”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

חֵלֹֽן׃8 of 8

“of Helon”

H2497

chelon, 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 2:7 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 2:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 1:9Numbers 1:30-31Numbers 7:24Numbers 7:29Numbers 10:16

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 2 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes