Numbers 10 20

Numbers 10:20 kjv

And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Numbers 10:20 nkjv

And over the army of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Numbers 10:20 niv

and Eliasaph son of Deuel was over the division of the tribe of Gad.

Numbers 10:20 esv

And over the company of the tribe of the people of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Numbers 10:20 nlt

and the troops of the tribe of Gad, led by Eliasaph son of Deuel.

Numbers 10 verses

Numbers 10 20 Meaning

Numbers 10:20 identifies Eliasaph, the son of Deuel, as the divinely appointed leader over the military contingent, or host, of the tribe of Gad. This verse is part of a meticulous record detailing the order of Israel's march from Mount Sinai through the wilderness, emphasizing the structured, hierarchical organization established by God for His people. It highlights the importance of specific leadership roles within each tribal unit for the unity and effective movement of the entire nation.

Numbers 10 20 Context

Numbers 10:20 is situated within the book of Numbers, which chronicles Israel's wilderness journey from Mount Sinai to the borders of the Promised Land. The preceding chapters meticulously detail the census, the organization of the Israelite camp around the Tabernacle, the roles of the Levites, and instructions for tribal offerings. Chapter 10 marks a significant transition: the breaking of camp at Sinai and the beginning of the long journey. Verses 11-13 describe the divine signal for departure. From verse 14 onwards, the specific marching order for each division is outlined. Numbers 10:20 places the tribe of Gad as part of the "camp of Reuben," following the first division led by Judah. This structured arrangement reflects God's desire for order and readiness as His people move forward. Historically, this precise organization would have been crucial for managing such a vast population (millions) in a harsh environment, ensuring security, logistical efficiency, and clear leadership in anticipation of challenges.

Numbers 10 20 Word analysis

• And over: Waw conjunction and preposition. Signals the continuation of the previous thought, introducing another appointed leader within the established marching order.
• the host: Hebrew tzava (צָבָא). Means "army," "host," "service." It denotes a structured military body, highlighting that Israel was not just a collection of individuals but an organized force, ready for the challenges of their journey and future conflicts. This term links their movement to a disciplined campaign.
• of the tribe: Hebrew matteh (מַטֶּה). Literally "staff" or "rod," metaphorically referring to a distinct lineage or division of Israel. Emphasizes tribal identity and collective responsibility within the larger nation.
• of the children: Hebrew bĕnê (בְּנֵי). "Sons of." A common Hebraism meaning descendants, emphasizing lineage and continuity.
• of Gad: One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's son Gad (Genesis 30:11). The tribe of Gad was known for its warriors (1 Chronicles 12:8). Their positioning in the march signifies their assigned place within the divine order.
• was Eliasaph: Hebrew 'Elyasaph (אֶלְיָסָף). "My God has added" or "God has increased." He is consistently mentioned as Gad's leader (Numbers 1:14, 2:14, 7:42). His name signifies divine provision and blessing, reflecting a common pattern in biblical names conveying theological meaning.
• the son of Deuel: Hebrew Dĕʿû'ēl (דְּעוּאֵל). "Knowledge of God." In Numbers 1:14, his name appears as Reuel (רְעוּאֵל), "Friend of God." These are likely variants of the same name or two very similar names, both conveying a profound relationship with God. This lineage detail provides context for Eliasaph's authority and status, indicating a family likely recognized for its piety or prominence.

• "the host of the tribe of the children of Gad": This phrase precisely defines the group under Eliasaph's command. It stresses both their military aspect (host) and their deep-rooted identity as a distinct lineage (tribe of the children of Gad), underscoring that each tribal contingent maintained its identity even within the larger national army.
• "Eliasaph the son of Deuel": This phrase identifies the specific individual holding leadership and his immediate patriarchal lineage. It signifies the principle of established authority passed down through families, which was a fundamental aspect of Israelite society and divine appointments for key roles. The spiritual meanings embedded in their names subtly reinforce the idea of God-ordained leadership chosen for character and divine relationship.

Numbers 10 20 Bonus section

The consistent repetition of the tribal leaders' names throughout the censuses and marching orders in the book of Numbers is not merely bureaucratic detail. It serves to emphasize divine recognition and authorization of specific individuals for pivotal roles in God's redemptive plan. It also instilled confidence in the people, knowing their leadership was divinely sanctioned and organized. This meticulous detailing sets a pattern for how God works—through order, appointed leadership, and a clear chain of command, a principle later echoed in the organization of the New Testament church where gifts and offices are given for the building up of the body. The numerical significance of "the host" highlights Israel's collective strength but also their corporate responsibility to adhere to God's precise instructions.

Numbers 10 20 Commentary

Numbers 10:20 provides a precise detail in the grand blueprint of Israel's journey from Sinai. It underscores God's meticulous order, revealing that no aspect of His people's movement was left to chance. The identification of Eliasaph as the leader of Gad's host demonstrates divine delegation and the importance of accountability within a structured community. This attention to specific roles, down to each tribal unit, reflects God's care for every member of His flock and His requirement for disciplined execution of His will. It portrays a divine military movement, organized for both protection and progress, with appointed individuals ensuring its success. This commitment to order prepares them for the wilderness challenges and highlights God as the ultimate strategist and provider of effective leadership.