THEOSISEphraem the Syrian
It has been remarked that 'the princes dug the treasure,' referring to those from the lineage of Moses engaging in this act. Likewise, 'the chiefs of the people,' meaning the leaders of the tribes, indicated it with their staffs, symbolizing their authority. It is also noted that a stone accompanied the Israelites, and whenever they halted, twelve fountains sprang forth. As they journeyed from one location to another, the springs were absent, yet their needs for water were never unmet. When they arrived at a new site, the men from Moses' household and the tribal leaders would emerge with their staffs, offering a song of thanksgiving, and the wells would overflow with water.