1:1–10:10 With the completion of the tabernacle (Ex. 35:4–40:38) the Lord continues to prepare His people to occupy the Promised Land. A census of fighting men is taken (ch. 1). Then measures to ensure the order and purity of the camp are related—the organization of the camp, the commissioning of the Levites and their ministry, and various provisions for ceremonial purity and religious observance. Finally, provisions are made for direction and guidance of the community (9:15–10:10).