ensign. Each standard is said to have had as its "sign" one of the twelve constellations (see note on Gen_1:16, and App-12. Hebrew. 'oth) depicted on it. One standard, with its sign on it for each tribe. Hence called "ensign". See notes on the tribes below, from the Targum of Jonathan.
far off = over against. Same as Psa_38:12, yet so as to be in view. Compare 2Ki_2:7. Deu_32:52. Gen_21:16.