Numbers 7:42Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In Gad, which signifies ‘temptation’ associated with the slave woman, the same individuals are referenced; they are intellectually low, tempting Jesus and ensnaring Him with their deceit. Some approached Him with the question, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” (Matthew 22:17). I will return to my earlier point: the firstborn of Israel, marked by cruelty, obstinacy, and violence, quick to murder and filled with a cursed rage, is one who harms others and injures the young, deceitful and lowly in his schemes, ensnaring others and leading them into temptation. He is placed behind those who are in Christ and liberated, though he too shall ultimately find freedom when he encounters God (Romans 11:25-26).