18 To the west are the companies of the camp of Ephraim under its flag, led by Elishama son of Ammihud. 19 His troops number 40,500. 20 The tribe of Manasseh will set up camp next to them, led by Gamaliel son of Pedahzur. 21 His troops number 32,200. 22 And next to him is the camp of Benjamin, led by Abidan son of Gideoni. 23 His troops number 35,400. 24 The total number of men assigned to the camp of Ephraim, troop by troop, is 108,100. They are third in the order of the march.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Numbers 2:18-24
Chapter Contents
The order of the tribes in their tents.
The tribes were to encamp about the tabernacle, which was to be in the midst of them. It was a token of God's gracious presence. Yet they were to pitch their tents afar off, in reverence to the sanctuary. The children of Israel put themselves in their posts, without murmuring or disputing; and as it was their safety, so it was their beauty. It is our duty and interest to be contented with the place allotted to us, and to endeavour to occupy it in a proper manner, without envying or murmuring; without ambition or covetousness. Thus the gospel church ought to be compact, according to the Scripture model, every one knowing and keeping his place; and then all that wish well to the church rejoice, beholding their order, Colossians 2:5.