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Book of Numbers - Chapter 2 - Verse 2

2:2
Every man of the children of Israel shall pitch by his own standard, with the ensign of their father's house: far off about the tabernacle of the congregation shall they pitch.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, it is described how the children of Israel were organized in their encampment around the tabernacle of the congregation. Each tribe had its own standard, or flag, bearing the emblem of its father's house. This symbolized their unity and identity as a people. By pitching their tents far off around the tabernacle, they were demonstrating their reverence for the Lord's presence in their midst. This arrangement also served a practical purpose, as it allowed for order and structure within the camp, with each tribe knowing their place in relation to the tabernacle. It was a visual representation of their faith, with the tabernacle at the center of their lives and their community. This verse reminds us of the importance of honoring God and coming together as a community, each with our own unique identities and roles to play in the larger plan of God.

Theological Overview

In this verse from Numbers 2:2, the commandment is given to the children of Israel to pitch their own standard by their father's house ensign around the tabernacle of the congregation. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of order, unity, and organization among God's people. Each tribe was assigned a specific location to pitch their tents, symbolizing their unique identity and role within the community. By following this divine instruction, the Israelites demonstrated their submission to God's authority and their commitment to worshiping Him in an orderly and unified manner. This verse reminds believers today of the significance of coming together as one body, each fulfilling their individual calling while working towards a common goal. Through studying the word "pitch" in this context, we can understand the need for stability and permanence in our commitment to our faith and relationship with God, as pitching a tent implies setting up a home base and planting roots in one's belief system.

American Standard Version

The children of Israel shall encamp every man by his own standard, with the ensigns of their fathers' houses: over against the tent of meeting shall they encamp round about.
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