What does Numbers 10:20 mean?
"And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel." - Numbers 10:20

Numbers 10:20 (KJV) reads: "And over the host of the tribe of the children of Simeon was Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai."
This verse is taken from the Book of Numbers in the Old Testament, which is the fourth book of the Bible. The Book of Numbers primarily focuses on the Israelites' journey from Mount Sinai to the borders of the Promised Land. It provides a detailed account of the Israelites' experiences in the wilderness, including their struggles, triumphs, and the establishment of their religious and legal institutions.
In this particular verse, we are given the name of Shelumiel, who was appointed to be in charge of the tribe of Simeon as they traveled through the wilderness. This verse is part of a larger section in Numbers 10 that details the organization and leadership of the tribes of Israel as they set out on their journey. Each tribe had a chosen leader who was responsible for overseeing and organizing their people as they traveled through the wilderness.
The name Shelumiel means "peace of God" or "God is my peace," and his father's name, Zurishaddai, means "my rock is the Almighty." These names hold significance and provide insight into the character and purpose of Shelumiel in his role as a leader of the tribe of Simeon. The symbolism of his name suggests that he was chosen by God to bring peace and stability to his tribe, relying on the strength and protection of the Almighty.
The tribe of Simeon was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and it was named after Simeon, one of the sons of Jacob. Simeon's descendants were allotted a portion of land within the territory of Judah when the Israelites entered the Promised Land. Simeon's tribe is often associated with zeal, as seen in the character of Simeon himself and the tribe's zeal for the purity of God's worship. In the context of Numbers 10:20, Shelumiel's leadership over the tribe of Simeon would have been essential to maintain the zeal and dedication of his people as they journeyed through the wilderness.
The appointment of Shelumiel as the leader of the tribe of Simeon also demonstrates the divine order and organization within the Israelite community. Each tribe had its own leader appointed by God through Moses, and they were responsible for guiding and leading their people according to God's instructions. This verse illustrates the importance of leadership and order within the community of believers, as well as the divine guidance and selection of leaders by God.
Overall, Numbers 10:20 provides a brief but significant insight into the leadership and organization of the Israelite tribes as they journeyed through the wilderness. The symbolism of Shelumiel's name and the significance of his role as a leader of the tribe of Simeon offer valuable lessons about the qualities of effective leadership, the divine selection of leaders, and the importance of maintaining zeal and dedication in worship and service to God. This verse serves as a reminder of God's guidance and provision for his people, as well as the responsibility of leaders to uphold and protect the spiritual well-being of those under their care.
Have questions about Numbers 10:20?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Numbers 10:20 Artwork
Numbers 10:20 - "And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel."
"And over the host of the tribe of the children of Gad was Eliasaph the son of Deuel." - Numbers 10:20
Draw me a travel map for Numbers 21:10-20
Numbers 20:10 - "And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?"
Draw me a travel map for Numbers 21:10-20. Label place name. More realistic of actual terrain of places from map
Numbers 20:20 - "And he said, Thou shalt not go through. And Edom came out against him with much people, and with a strong hand."
Numbers 20:7 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 34:20 - "And of the tribe of the children of Simeon, Shemuel the son of Ammihud."
Numbers 33:20 - "And they departed from Rimmon-parez, and pitched in Libnah."
Numbers 16:20 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,"
Numbers 7:20 - "One spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense:"
Numbers 14:20 - "And the LORD said, I have pardoned according to thy word:"
Numbers 4:20 - "But they shall not go in to see when the holy things are covered, lest they die."
Numbers 20:2 - "And there was no water for the congregation: and they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron."
Genesis 20-10
Putting Aaron’s priestly garment on Eleazar in Numbers 20
Numbers 20:9 - "And Moses took the rod from before the LORD, as he commanded him."
Numbers 13:10 - "Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi."
Hebrews 10:20
Revelation 20:10
Numbers 35:20 - "But if he thrust him of hatred, or hurl at him by laying of wait, that he die;"
Numbers 20:13 - "This is the water of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with the LORD, and he was sanctified in them."
Numbers 10:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 25:10 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 3:20 - "And the sons of Merari by their families; Mahli, and Mushi. These are the families of the Levites according to the house of their fathers."
Numbers 20:27 - "And Moses did as the LORD commanded: and they went up into mount Hor in the sight of all the congregation."
Numbers 21:20 - "And from Bamoth in the valley, that is in the country of Moab, to the top of Pisgah, which looketh toward Jeshimon."
Numbers 20:25 - "Take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them up unto mount Hor:"
Numbers 21:10 - "¶ And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in Oboth."
Numbers 33:10 - "And they removed from Elim, and encamped by the Red sea."