“And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were three hundred thousand and seven thousand and five hundred.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and it provides a detailed account of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. It includes various censuses, laws, and instructions given by God to the Israelites.
In Numbers 2, God instructs Moses to organize the Israelite camp by tribe and assigns specific positions for each tribe around the tabernacle.
The Tribe of Asher:Numbers 2:30 specifically mentions the tribe of Asher. Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and they were descendants of Jacob’s son Asher. In this verse, the focus is on Asher’s military organisation for the purpose of marching through the wilderness.
The Numbering:The verse states that the host (military force) of the tribe of Asher, along with the number of people counted from the tribe, was 300,000 and 7,500. This number refers to the men who were eligible for military service, rather than the entire population of the tribe. The mention of such a significant number highlights the size and strength of the tribe of Asher.
Symbolic Significance:In the book of Numbers, the numbers and arrangements hold symbolic meanings. The number 12 represents completeness and represents the twelve tribes of Israel. In this verse, the specific number of Asher’s military force demonstrates their contribution to the overall organisation and protection of the Israelite community.
Unity and Order:The detailed instructions given by God regarding the organisation of the camp reflect the importance of unity, order, and discipline within the Israelite community. Each tribe had its designated position, forming a cohesive and structured arrangement around the tabernacle, which was the central place of worship and God’s presence among them.
Application:As we reflect on this verse, we can learn several lessons. Firstly, it reminds us of the significance of unity and order within any community, including the church. Each individual has a role to play, and when we work together in harmony, we can achieve great things for God’s kingdom. Secondly, the large number of men from the tribe of Asher serves as a reminder that God’s plans and purposes often involve utilising the strength and resources of His people. We should be faithful in utilising our gifts and talents for God’s service, knowing that He can multiply our efforts and use us for His glory. Lastly, the organised camp of the Israelites points to the importance of seeking God’s guidance and following His instructions. Just as God gave specific directions to Moses for the camp, we should seek God’s guidance through prayer, studying His Word, and listening to the leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
In conclusion, Numbers 2:30 highlights the military organisation of the tribe of Asher and emphasises the importance of unity, order, and faithful service within the community. It encourages us to recognise our individual roles, use our gifts for God’s purposes, and seek His guidance in our lives.
