Numbers 10:17-21

17-21. Bearing the tabernacle By inspecting the plan of the camp (Numbers 2:5, cut) it will be seen that the bearers of the various parts of the tabernacle wheeled into the column after the entire eastern division of the camp had moved. The bearers of the sanctuary, or the most holy things, (Numbers 4:4, note,) waited after the removal of the tabernacle till the entire southern side of the camp was in line, when they also marched. This arrangement afforded ample protection to the body of Levites, and gave the bearers of the tabernacle the opportunity to set it up in time for the reception of its furniture against the Kohathites came, that is, by the time when they should arrive. For the place of the ark on the march see Numbers 10:33, note. This fixed order, rigidly adhered to, was necessary not only for military reasons, but to prevent the host from becoming a confused mob.