Numbers 10:6, commentary and pictures

The verse belongs to a system of distinct, well-known trumpet sounds that gave clear directions for moving in order, so that each group knew when to journey and confusion was avoided. The second alarm in particular was the signal for the camps lying on the south side to take their journey. This was part of the thorough organization and discipline given very soon after leaving Egypt under Moses, whom God had qualified as a mighty warrior and general.

When the pillar of cloud resting over the tabernacle showed it was time to journey, directions passed from Moses to the sons of Aaron, who marched just behind Moses and Aaron in front of the ark, and they communicated them to the people by speaking through the trumpets. A special signal first called the people to attention, then the known sounds directed their movements, and the head officer of each company gave definite directions so that none who paid attention were left ignorant of what to do. At the signal the entire camp set forward from Sinai with the tabernacle carried in the midst and each tribe marching in order in its appointed place under its own standard bearing the sign of its father's tribe.

There was no confusion of sound in the trumpets, so confusion in movement was avoided and there was no excuse for confusion or disobedience. Failure to comply was punished with death, and ignorance was no excuse because all had the same opportunity to learn. On this departure all eyes watched anxiously to see in what direction the cloud would lead, and it moved toward the east where there were only huddled, black and desolate mountain masses, a sight that filled many hearts with sadness and doubt.

This perfect order teaches that God has not changed from being a God of order but is the same now as then, and He intends lessons of order, discipline, union of action, and organization to still be learned from what was instituted then.