Book of Numbers - Chapter 2 - Verse 20

The verse "And by him shall be the tribe of Manasseh: and the captain of the children of Manasseh shall be Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur." from Numbers 2:20 is a significant piece of biblical text that outlines the organization and leadership of the tribe of Manasseh during their time in the wilderness. In this verse, it is revealed that the tribe of Manasseh will be positioned next to the tribe of Ephraim in their encampment as they journey through the wilderness. Furthermore, the verse designates Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur, as the captain or leader of the children of Manasseh. This shows the importance of leadership within the tribe and highlights the specific role that Gamaliel played in guiding his people. By understanding the context and significance of this verse, readers can gain deeper insights into the organization and leadership structure of the Israelites during their time in the wilderness.

According to theological interpretation, the mention of the tribe of Manasseh in Numbers 2:20 signifies the significance of this particular tribe within the larger context of Israelite history. Manasseh was one of the twelve tribes of Israel and was descended from Manasseh, the son of Joseph. The tribe of Manasseh played a crucial role in the history of Israel, particularly during the conquest of the Promised Land as described in the book of Joshua. Additionally, the reference to Gamaliel as the captain of the children of Manasseh highlights the leadership structure within the tribe and the importance of strong leadership in guiding and protecting the people. Through word studies, the name Gamaliel carries the meaning of “reward of God” or “recompense of God,” underscoring the belief that leadership positions are appointed by God and that those who lead His people are rewarded for their faithfulness and obedience. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the unique roles and responsibilities assigned to each tribe within the nation of Israel, as well as the divine guidance and reward for those who faithfully lead God’s people.