Old Testament
Numbers 2:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The tribe of Asher was to camp next to Dan. Pagiel son of Ocran was the leader of Asher's tribe.
Compare translations
And those that encamp by him shall be the tribe of Asher: and the captain of the children of Asher shall be Pagiel the son of Ocran.
What Numbers 2:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about the organization of the Israelite camp during their journey in the wilderness. The tribe of Asher is designated to camp next to the tribe of Dan, indicating a specific arrangement among the tribes. Pagiel, the son of Ocran, is named as the leader of Asher. This structure not only reflects the importance of order and community among the tribes but also highlights the leadership roles within them. Each tribe had its own leader, which was crucial for maintaining unity and direction as they traveled. The placement of tribes around the Tabernacle was significant, as it symbolized their relationship with God and each other. The mention of specific leaders and their tribes emphasizes the importance of accountability and responsibility in leadership roles. This verse serves as a reminder of the need for organization and cooperation in any community, as well as the importance of recognizing and honoring those who lead us.
How to apply Numbers 2:27 to your life
This verse encourages us to appreciate the structure and leadership within our own communities. Just as the tribes of Israel had designated leaders, we should recognize and support those who guide us. Effective leadership fosters unity and helps us work together towards common goals, reflecting God's order in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Numbers 2:27
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Numbers 2:27
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 2:27 teach about tribal organization?
Numbers 2:27 illustrates the specific arrangement of the Israelite camp, showing that the tribe of Asher was to camp next to the tribe of Dan. This organization reflects the importance of structure and order within the community, highlighting how each tribe had its designated place and role during their journey in the wilderness.
Who was Pagiel in Numbers 2:27?
Pagiel, the son of Ocran, is identified as the leader of the tribe of Asher in Numbers 2:27. His mention signifies the importance of leadership within the tribes of Israel, as each tribe had a captain responsible for guiding and organizing their members during their travels.
Why is the placement of tribes significant in Numbers 2:27?
The placement of tribes around the Tabernacle, as noted in Numbers 2:27, symbolizes their relationship with God and each other. It reflects a divine order that fosters unity and cooperation among the tribes, emphasizing the need for community and accountability in their journey.
How can we apply the lessons from Numbers 2:27 to modern leadership?
The lessons from Numbers 2:27 encourage us to recognize and support leaders within our communities. Just as the tribes of Israel had designated leaders to maintain order and direction, effective leadership today fosters unity and helps groups work towards common goals, reflecting God's order in our lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.