Numbers 32:1

Children of Reuben. The Reubenites and the Gadites were encamped on the south side of the tabernacle, probably not as neighbors, but with the tribe of Simeon between them (ch. 2:10-14). Reuben was Jacob’s first-born, and is, therefore, mentioned first, according to tribal seniority. In the following verses Gad is mentioned first, since that tribe took the initiative in the matter of settling on the east side of the Jordan. The fact of their having lived close together for 38 years tended to influence them to stay together in their permanent location.

Great multitude of cattle. That is, in comparison with the rest of the Israelites. How they came to be so rich in cattle is not stated (see Judges 5:16, 17).

The land of Jazer. This name appears elsewhere as that of a town. It is thought to have been north or northwest of Rabbath Ammon.

The land of Gilead. The name of a district mentioned first in Gen. 37:25, lying north and south of the brook Jabbok. It was noted for its fertile soil. The name Gilead is sometimes used to denote all the territory occupied by Israel east of the Jordan.

A place for cattle. Included in this territory was Bashan, noted for its fine cattle (see Ps. 22:12).