Old Testament
Numbers 2:20
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The tribe of Manasseh was to camp next to Ephraim. Gamaliel son of Pedahzur was the leader of Manasseh's tribe.
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And by him shall be the tribe of Manasseh: and the captain of the children of Manasseh shall be Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.
What Numbers 2:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the organization of the Israelite tribes during their journey in the wilderness. The tribe of Manasseh is instructed to camp next to the tribe of Ephraim, indicating a specific arrangement that God had for the tribes. Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur, is named as the leader of Manasseh. This highlights the importance of leadership and structure within the community. Each tribe had its own leader, which helped maintain order and unity among the Israelites as they traveled. The mention of specific leaders and their lineage also emphasizes the significance of heritage and family in the Israelite culture. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of community organization and the roles individuals play within it, as well as the divine guidance in their journey.
How to apply Numbers 2:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of structure and leadership in our own communities. Just as the tribes of Israel had designated leaders, we too should appreciate the roles individuals play in guiding and supporting one another. Embracing our responsibilities can foster unity and cooperation.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 2:20 mean?
Numbers 2:20 describes the arrangement of the Israelite tribes during their wilderness journey, specifically stating that the tribe of Manasseh was to camp next to Ephraim, with Gamaliel as its leader. This reflects the importance of organization and leadership within the community.
Who is Gamaliel in Numbers 2:20?
Gamaliel, mentioned in Numbers 2:20, is the son of Pedahzur and the leader of the tribe of Manasseh. His mention highlights the significance of leadership roles among the tribes of Israel.
What is the significance of tribal organization in Numbers 2:20?
The tribal organization in Numbers 2:20 illustrates how God instructed the Israelites to maintain order and unity during their travels. Each tribe had a designated leader, which helped foster community structure.
What does the phrase 'the tribe of Manasseh' refer to in Numbers 2:20?
In Numbers 2:20, 'the tribe of Manasseh' refers to one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. This tribe's placement next to Ephraim signifies their role and relationship within the larger Israelite community.
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