He spread a cloud for a covering; and fire to give light in the night.
He spread a cloud for a covering - or protection during their marches. While they were encamped, the cloud rested over the tabernacle (Numbers 10:34). "The cloud of the Lord was upon (i:e., over) them by day, when they went out of the camp." The cloud afforded a grateful shade over the congregation against the sun. Compare, spiritually and metaphorically, Isaiah 4:5-6,
And fire to give light in the night - (Nehemiah 9:12; Numbers 9:16; Exodus 13:21; Psalms 78:14.)