Numbers 10 15

Numbers 10:15 kjv

And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar.

Numbers 10:15 nkjv

Over the army of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethanel the son of Zuar.

Numbers 10:15 niv

Nethanel son of Zuar was over the division of the tribe of Issachar,

Numbers 10:15 esv

And over the company of the tribe of the people of Issachar was Nethanel the son of Zuar.

Numbers 10:15 nlt

They were joined by the troops of the tribe of Issachar, led by Nethanel son of Zuar,

Numbers 10 verses

Numbers 10 15 Meaning

Numbers 10:15 states that Nethaneel, son of Zuar, held leadership over the military contingent of the tribe of Issachar. This verse is part of a detailed account outlining the precise marching order and organizational structure of the Israelites as they departed from Mount Sinai. It signifies God's emphasis on order, appointed leadership, and the unique identity and role of each tribal unit within the larger covenant community during their wilderness journey.

Numbers 10 15 Context

Numbers chapter 10 marks a pivotal transition in the Israelites' journey. Following over a year camped at Mount Sinai receiving the Law and instructions for the Tabernacle, the time comes for them to break camp and proceed towards the Promised Land. The first nine chapters of Numbers detail the census, tribal arrangements, Tabernacle service, and specific laws. Chapter 10 immediately precedes their departure. Verses 14-28 explicitly list the order of march for each of the four divisions (camps of Judah, Reuben, Ephraim, and Dan), specifying which tribes marched first, in the middle, or as the rear guard, and identifying the leading prince for each of the listed tribes. Numbers 10:15 thus details one component of this divinely ordained procession, highlighting the meticulous planning God instituted for His people, recognizing each tribal identity within the larger collective. Historically and culturally, such an organized march of millions (or at least hundreds of thousands) would be crucial for survival, security, and demonstrating unity under God's leadership.

Numbers 10 15 Word analysis

• And (וְ, ve-): A simple conjunction, connecting this specific leadership appointment to the ongoing enumeration of tribal leaders in the preceding verses. It denotes continuity and inclusion in the divine record.
• Nethaneel (נְתַנְאֵל, Nethan'el): A personal name meaning "God has given" or "Gift of God." This name is significant; it underscores that leadership roles, even administrative or military ones, are ultimately gifts or appointments from God. It hints at divine selection and enablement rather than merely human merit.
• the son of (בֶּן, ben): A common Hebrew patronymic, indicating direct lineage. It identifies the individual within their family structure, emphasizing tribal and family identity which was foundational in ancient Israel.
• Zuar (צוּעָר, Tsu'ar): A personal name. Its meaning is debated, possibly related to "small" or "insignificant," or a root related to "a small quantity" or "be inferior." If this etymology holds, it subtly contrasts with "Nethaneel" ("God has given"), highlighting how God can use individuals regardless of their earthly parentage or perceived status, often elevating the humble.
• was over (אֲשֶׁר עַל, asher ʿal / ʿal): While there isn't a direct single Hebrew verb translated "was over" here, the phrase indicates a state of being in authority. 'Al typically means "over," "on," "above." In this context, it implies appointed leadership, responsibility, and command. Nethaneel was the designated prince/head of this specific contingent, reflecting his authoritative position within the tribal structure.
• the host (צָבָא, tzava'): This Hebrew term signifies an army, multitude, organized force, or even celestial bodies ("hosts of heaven"). Here, it explicitly refers to the military contingent or organized body of the tribe. It highlights that the departure from Sinai was not merely a civilian migration but an ordered military-style advance, under God's command.
• of the tribe (מַטֵּה, matteh): This word literally means "staff," "rod," or "branch," and by extension, refers to a distinct tribal unit or family division. It underscores the unique, divinely preserved identity of each of the twelve tribes as foundational units of the nation.
• of Issachar (יִשָׂשכָר, Yissakhar): One of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Jacob's ninth son. The name means "there is recompense" or "he brings reward," referencing Leah's words in Genesis 30:18 when she bore him. The tribe of Issachar was known for its understanding of the times (1 Chr 12:32), which would be vital for discerning God's movements during the wilderness journey.

Numbers 10 15 Bonus section

The specific mentioning of tribal leaders throughout Numbers (especially chapters 1, 2, and 10) indicates the vital role of delegated authority within the theocratic structure of Israel. It shows that while Moses was the overarching leader, God equipped others with authority at different levels to manage the vast congregation effectively. This foresight ensured practical management, legal arbitration, and military readiness for a people numbered in the millions. Furthermore, Issachar's unique reputation, later highlighted in 1 Chronicles 12:32, for "understanding the times and knowing what Israel ought to do," suggests that Nethaneel's leadership, along with the very tribe itself, may have embodied a discerning quality crucial for navigating the unknown challenges of the wilderness and adhering to God's precise instructions for movement. The recording of such details reflects the divine author's emphasis on accountability and precision in all aspects of covenant life.

Numbers 10 15 Commentary

Numbers 10:15 provides a crucial detail within the meticulously planned departure of Israel from Sinai. It’s more than just a list of names; it testifies to God’s demand for order and His sovereign appointment of specific leaders for His people. Nethaneel's leadership over the host of Issachar underscores that every component of God’s plan, down to the tribal level, had divinely selected authority figures. This order was not merely logistical but theological, reflecting the structured nature of God Himself. The name Nethaneel ("God has given") subtly highlights that even in a leadership role within a challenging wilderness journey, the ability and position derive from divine enablement. This meticulous record-keeping confirms the historical reality of these events and God's hands-on involvement in guiding His people every step of the way, equipping them through appointed individuals to move from bondage toward the promised inheritance. This organized system was essential for their survival, unity, and spiritual integrity.