Hebrew neec, not, in the English sense of the term, an arbitrary token to distinguish one band or regiment of Israel from another, but a common object of regard, a signal of observation, a rallying point to awaken men's hopes and efforts (Exodus 17:15). Moses called the altar of thanksgiving, after Amalek's defeat, JEHOVAH NISSI, "Jehovah is my banner." The altar is the pledge that Jehovah, in covenant with Israel, shall enable His people to defeat utterly Amalek and all his foes. (Compare Numbers 21:8, "a pole"; Isaiah 5:26; Isaiah 11:10, "a root of Jesse shall stand for an ensign of the people," Isaiah 13:2; Isaiah 30:17; Isaiah 49:22; Psalm 60:4.)
        Messiah set forth manifestly as the crucified Savior (Galatians 3:1) is the rallying point for the gathering together in one unto Him of all the redeemed in spirit, in the glorified body also hereafter (Genesis 49:10; Matthew 24:31; 2 Thessalonians 2:1). His love displayed is the "banner" under which His people rally for almighty protection and unspeakable comfort (Song of Solomon 2:4). As neec is a "signal," raised on some special occasion, always on an elevation and conspicuous, so degel is a military standard for a large division of an army; oth, for a small one. (See ENCAMPMENT.)