God Himself directed the Israelites in all their travels. The place of their encampment was indicated by the descent of the pillar of cloud; and so long as they were to remain in camp, the cloud rested over the tabernacle. When they were to continue their journey it was lifted high above the sacred tent. A solemn invocation marked both the halt and the departure. "It came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, Rise up, Lord, and let Thine enemies be scattered; and let them that late Thee flee before Thee. And when it rested, he said, Return, O Lord, unto the many thousands of Israel." Numbers 10:35, 36.

Gud ledede selv Israel på alle deres rejser. Det sted, hvor de skulle slå lejr, blev angivet ved, at skystøtten sænkede sig, og så længe de skulle blive der, hvilede skyen over tabernaklet. Når de skulle fortsætte rejsen, hævede skyen sig højt over det hellige telt. Der fandt en højtidelig påkaldelse sted, både når de gjorde holdt, og når de brød op. "Og hver gang arken brød op, sagde Moses: "Stå op, Herre, at dine fjender må splittes og dine avindsmænd fly for dit åsyn!" Og hver gang den standsede, sagde han: "Vend tilbage, Herre, til Israels stammer titusinder!" 4. Mos. 10, 35-36.