במדבר, פרק א׳, פסוק כ״ד

The national census of the Israelites follows a precise and intentional sequence, reflecting family ties rather than a random order. As the tribes are counted, the descendants of Gad are placed third, following Reuben. This specific placement honors the historical family structure. Gad was the firstborn son of Zilpah. Because Zilpah was the maidservant of Leah, the mother of Reuben, Gad is grouped closely with Leah's eldest son [חזקוני].