Numbers 2:5

The tribe of Issachar will camp next to it. The leader of the Issacharites is Nethanel son of Zuar,

Study Bible

The tribe of Issachar will camp next to it.
In the arrangement of the Israelite camp, the tribe of Issachar was positioned on the east side of the Tabernacle, alongside the tribes of Judah and Zebulun. This strategic placement highlights the importance of Issachar within the camp, as the eastern side was considered the front and was the direction from which the camp would set out. Issachar's proximity to Judah, the leading tribe, suggests a role of support and alliance. Historically, Issachar was known for its wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32), which may have contributed to its placement near the leadership of Judah. The tribe's location also reflects the unity and order that God desired for His people, emphasizing the importance of community and cooperation among the tribes.

The leader of the Issacharites is Nethanel son of Zuar,
Nethanel, son of Zuar, is identified as the leader of the tribe of Issachar during the wilderness period. His role as leader would have involved overseeing the tribe's affairs, representing Issachar in tribal councils, and ensuring the tribe's adherence to the laws and commands given by God through Moses. The mention of his lineage, "son of Zuar," underscores the importance of family heritage and leadership succession in Israelite culture. Leaders were often chosen based on their family background and demonstrated ability to lead. Nethanel's leadership is also noted in other passages, such as Numbers 1:8 and Numbers 7:18, where he is involved in the census and offerings, respectively. This continuity of leadership highlights the stability and order within the tribe, reflecting God's provision and guidance for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, Reuben is the ancestor of the tribe of Reuben. His tribe is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and they are positioned on the south side of the camp.

2. Elizur son of Shedeur
Elizur is the leader of the tribe of Reuben during the Israelites' wilderness journey. His name means "God is my rock," reflecting a reliance on divine strength.

3. The Camp of Israel
This refers to the organized encampment of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. Each tribe had a specific position around the Tabernacle, symbolizing order and unity.

4. The South Side
The specific location where the tribe of Reuben was to camp. This positioning was part of God's divine order for the Israelites.

5. The Standard
Each tribe had a standard or banner, which served as a rallying point and symbol of identity for the tribe.

Teaching Points

Divine Order and Structure
God is a God of order, and the arrangement of the Israelite camp reflects His desire for structure and organization in our lives. We should seek to align our lives with God's order.

Leadership and Responsibility
Elizur's role as a leader highlights the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to guide their people with integrity and reliance on God.

Identity and Community
The standard of each tribe symbolizes identity and unity. As Christians, we find our identity in Christ and are called to live in community with fellow believers.

Heritage and Legacy
The tribe of Reuben's history reminds us of the importance of our spiritual heritage and the legacy we leave for future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the positioning of the tribe of Reuben in the camp reflect God's order and purpose for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of divine order in our personal and communal lives today?

3. What lessons can we learn from Elizur's leadership about leading with faith and integrity?

4. How does the identity of the tribe of Reuben, as represented by their standard, relate to our identity in Christ?

5. Considering Reuben's loss of his birthright, how can we ensure that we honor our spiritual heritage and pass on a godly legacy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:3-4
Reuben's position and role can be connected to Jacob's blessing and prophecy over him, which speaks to his character and future.

Exodus 6:14
This passage lists the heads of the tribes of Israel, including Reuben, providing context for the leadership structure among the Israelites.

1 Chronicles 5:1-2
Chronicles the lineage and significance of Reuben, noting the loss of his birthright due to his actions, which is relevant to understanding his tribe's position.