BEMIDBAR

After the sanctuary was constructed
And the inaugural rites had taken place,
At G-d’s behest a census was conducted
By tribes, and every tribe assigned a place
In a plan of encampment that was based,
Like G-d’s own throne, upon the number four:
Thus G-d’s thought emanating into space
Attunes life’s noise to a harmonious score.
Each tribe beneath its banner shone the more,
Dan by Asher, Reuben by Shim’on,
In company with those who best could shore
Their strengths, and orient them toward the One.
So were their powers increased by being measured,
And wisdom set to guard them in the desert.