3 To the east toward the sunrise are the companies of the camp of Judah under its flag, led by Nahshon son of Amminadab. 4 His troops number 74,600. 5 The tribe of Issachar will camp next to them, led by Nethanel son of Zuar. 6 His troops number 54,400. 7 And the tribe of Zebulun is next to them, led by Eliab son of Helon. 8 His troops number 57,400. 9 The total number of men assigned to Judah, troop by troop, is 186,400. They will lead the march.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Numbers 2:3-9
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.