Numbers 2:20
The tribe of Manasseh will be next to it. The leader of the Manassites is Gamaliel son of Pedahzur,
Next will be the tribe of Manasseh
The phrase "Next will be" indicates a sequential order, reflecting the organized and purposeful nature of God's instructions to the Israelites. The "tribe of Manasseh" is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. In Hebrew, "Manasseh" means "causing to forget," which is significant as Joseph named him so because God made him forget all his troubles in Egypt (Genesis 41:51). This tribe's placement in the camp arrangement signifies their role and importance in the community, highlighting God's meticulous planning and care for His people.

The leader of the Manassites is Gamaliel son of Pedahzur
The "leader" here refers to the head or chief of the tribe, a position of significant responsibility and honor. "Gamaliel" means "God is my reward" in Hebrew, suggesting a divine favor and blessing upon him. This name reflects a deep spiritual truth that God Himself is the ultimate reward for those who lead and serve His people faithfully. "Son of Pedahzur" provides a genealogical link, emphasizing the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite society. "Pedahzur" means "the rock has ransomed," which can be seen as a prophetic foreshadowing of Christ, the Rock, who ransoms His people. This lineage underscores the continuity of God's promises and the faithfulness of His covenant through generations.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Tribe of Manasseh
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. This tribe was known for its significant size and strength.

2. Gamaliel
The leader of the tribe of Manasseh during the wilderness period. His name means "God is my reward" in Hebrew, indicating a divine favor or blessing.

3. Pedahzur
The father of Gamaliel. His name means "the rock has redeemed" in Hebrew, suggesting a foundation of faith and redemption.

4. Israelite Camp Arrangement
The context of this verse is the arrangement of the Israelite camp around the Tabernacle during their wilderness journey. Each tribe had a specific position and role.

5. Wilderness Journey
The period when the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land, a time of testing, learning, and divine guidance.
Teaching Points
Divine Order and Leadership
God is a God of order, as seen in the specific arrangement of the tribes. This teaches us the importance of structure and leadership in our communities and churches.

Heritage and Identity
The mention of Gamaliel and Pedahzur highlights the importance of heritage and identity. We are reminded to honor our spiritual lineage and the faith of those who came before us.

Role and Responsibility
Each tribe had a specific role in the camp. Similarly, every believer has a unique role in the body of Christ, and we should seek to fulfill our God-given responsibilities.

Faithfulness in the Journey
The wilderness journey was a time of testing. We are encouraged to remain faithful and trust in God's guidance through our own life journeys.
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from the specific arrangement of the Israelite camp about God's nature and His expectations for order in our lives?

2. How does the leadership of Gamaliel reflect the qualities God desires in leaders today?

3. In what ways can we honor our spiritual heritage and those who have influenced our faith journey?

4. How can we identify and fulfill our unique roles within our church or community, similar to the tribes of Israel?

5. What lessons from the wilderness journey of the Israelites can we apply to our own spiritual walk and challenges?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, which sets the stage for the prominence of the tribe of Manasseh.

Joshua 17
Details the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh in the Promised Land, highlighting their role and territory.

1 Chronicles 5
Chronicles the genealogy and exploits of the tribe of Manasseh, emphasizing their valor and contributions to Israel's history.
The Discipline of God's ArmyD. Young Numbers 2:1-34
The Master At SinaiW. Binnie Numbers 2:1-34
People
Aaron, Abidan, Ahiezer, Ahira, Ammihud, Amminadab, Ammishaddai, Asher, Benjamin, Dan, Deuel, Eliab, Eliasaph, Elishama, Elizur, Enan, Gad, Gamaliel, Gideoni, Helon, Israelites, Issachar, Levites, Manasseh, Moses, Nahshon, Naphtali, Nethaneel, Ocran, Pagiel, Pedahzur, Reuben, Reuel, Shedeur, Shelumiel, Simeon, Zebulun, Zuar, Zurishaddai
Places
Sinai
Topics
Captain, Chief, Gamaliel, Gama'liel, Leader, Manasseh, Manas'seh, Pedahzur, Pedah'zur, Prince, Sons, Tribe
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Numbers 2:18-23

     7266   tribes of Israel

Library
Numbers
Like the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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