Numbers 10 16

Numbers 10:16 kjv

And over the host of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon.

Numbers 10:16 nkjv

And over the army of the tribe of the children of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon.

Numbers 10:16 niv

and Eliab son of Helon was over the division of the tribe of Zebulun.

Numbers 10:16 esv

And over the company of the tribe of the people of Zebulun was Eliab the son of Helon.

Numbers 10:16 nlt

and the troops of the tribe of Zebulun, led by Eliab son of Helon.

Numbers 10 verses

Numbers 10 16 Meaning

Numbers 10:16 records the identity of the head, or leader, of the tribe of Asher as Pagiel the son of Ocran, immediately before the camp of Dan's division set out as the rearguard. This verse is part of a meticulous description of the Israelites' ordered departure from Mount Sinai, emphasizing God's detailed organizational structure for His people as they commenced their journey towards the promised land. It signifies God's precise order and care over each tribal unit, affirming the leadership structure ordained for the desert trek.

Numbers 10 16 Context

Numbers chapter 10 marks a significant transition point in the Book of Numbers: the Israelites' long-anticipated departure from Mount Sinai, where they had been encamped for nearly a year since the giving of the Law. The preceding chapters (Num 1-9) meticulously detail the preparations: the census, the ordering of the camp by tribes, the duties of the Levites, purity laws, dedications, and the arrangement for the signal of movement (the cloud and the trumpets). Verses 11-28 of Chapter 10 describe the precise order of march for each tribal division. Numbers 10:16 specifically names Pagiel, son of Ocran, as the leader of the tribe of Asher, placed within the context of the rearguard contingent, the standard of the camp of Dan. This specific mention underscores the comprehensive nature of the divine command, ensuring that every tribal unit and its leadership was accounted for and properly aligned in the divinely orchestrated journey. Historically, such precise organization was crucial for a large multitude moving through a wilderness, but for Israel, it primarily reflected God's desire for order and obedience to His covenant commands.

Numbers 10 16 Word analysis

• And (וְ - ve): A simple conjunction "and," linking this leader's identity to the preceding detailed instructions for the tribal marching order. It signifies continuation and adherence to the divine blueprint.
• the head (רֹאשׁ - ro'sh): This Hebrew term means "head," "chief," or "leader." It denotes a position of authority and responsibility within the tribal structure, underscoring the established divine order for the people of Israel. This role was critical for managing tribal affairs and ensuring adherence to the communal march order.
• of the tribe (לְמַטֵּה - l'matteh): "Matteh" refers to a "tribe," "staff," or "branch." It emphasizes the specific, distinct familial and administrative unit within Israel. The "staff" imagery can signify both a shepherd's staff, guiding the flock, and a ruler's scepter, indicating authority. The emphasis on specific tribal units highlights the particularity and distinct identity of each segment of God's chosen people, all unified under His larger command.
• of the children of Asher (בְּנֵי אָשֵׁר - b'ney Asher): "B'ney" means "sons of" or "children of," denoting the lineage or descendants. "Asher" (אָשֵׁר) means "happy" or "blessed," from Leah's exclamation upon his birth (Gen 30:13). This refers to the specific tribe founded by one of Jacob's sons. Their inclusion highlights that all twelve tribes, though distinct, were integral to God's plan and orderly movement. They occupied a particular place in the march formation as part of the Danite division.
• was Pagiel (פַּגְעִיאֵל - Pagiel): "Pagiel" likely means "Encounter of God" or "God has met" (from paga' "to meet, encounter" and El "God"). The name reflects a theological truth, that God meets or acts. While the specific personal actions of Pagiel are not extensively detailed, his very name embedded within this meticulous record subtly underscores that every detail, down to the name of a leader, is within God's comprehensive oversight and plan.
• the son of (בֶּן - ben): Denotes lineal descent, essential in Israelite culture for establishing identity, tribal affiliation, and inheritance. This highlights the importance of genealogy and lineage in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the continuity of the covenant promises through family lines.
• Ocran (עָכְרָן - Ocran): The name "Ocran" is thought to mean "troubled" or "disturbed." This name, though seemingly insignificant on its own, follows the typical Hebrew naming convention where names often reflected circumstances or aspirations. His mention serves to fully identify Pagiel, reinforcing the meticulous genealogical record-keeping of the Israelite people and the thoroughness of God's divinely ordered census and leadership appointment.

Words-group analysis:

• "head of the tribe of the children of Asher": This phrase precisely identifies the specific leadership role within a defined tribal unit. It signifies divine appointment and structure, crucial for maintaining order and discipline among such a vast assembly during their journey. It represents a micro-level of the divine organizational genius that undergirded the entire nation's wilderness experience.
• "Pagiel the son of Ocran": This common biblical construct, the "x son of y" patronymic, solidifies identity and lineage. It is not merely an individual's name but anchors them within their familial and tribal context. It underscores the importance of proper identification and divine recognition for every leader, emphasizing that even specific family lines were known and accounted for by God in His plans.

Numbers 10 16 Bonus section

The repeated mention of Pagiel son of Ocran (Num 1:13, 2:27, 7:72, 10:16) for the tribe of Asher emphasizes consistency and validation of appointed leadership. In a period when national identity and cohesion were paramount for the newly liberated slaves, establishing clear leadership from recognized lineage was crucial for maintaining order and ensuring adherence to God's commands. These specific names, while not famous for grand exploits, serve to humanize the meticulously organized Exodus generation. Their very inclusion underscores the theological principle that every part of God's plan, down to individual leadership within specific families, is significant and purposed by the Divine Architect. This level of detail affirms that God sees and orders the lives of individuals, even within a vast national narrative. The position of Asher's tribe within the "camp of Dan," which formed the rearguard, highlights a strategic military order where no segment was left vulnerable, pointing to God's comprehensive protection and tactical wisdom for His people.

Numbers 10 16 Commentary

Numbers 10:16 is a seemingly simple genealogical reference, yet it holds profound theological significance. It reflects God's meticulous nature and His deep concern for order, clarity, and specific roles within His people. As Israel transitions from a stationary camp to an active pilgrimage, every detail, including the exact identity of each tribal head, is precisely enumerated. This is not mere historical record-keeping but a testament to divine design. God established a clear hierarchy and structure for His covenant people, demonstrating that His presence brought not chaos, but perfect organization. The mention of Pagiel, son of Ocran, among the listed leaders, confirms that all tribal units were recognized and held specific positions, vital for the entire body to move efficiently and fulfill its purpose. This commitment to detail in the wilderness serves as a type for how God orchestrates every aspect of His kingdom, valuing each component and placing it within His perfect will for collective success and spiritual advancement. It highlights obedience to God's precise instructions, for their well-being depended entirely on following the divine pattern.