In this section, the Torah lists the Jewish people, counting them by tribe. The tribes are called Matot, which means "staffs," because the leader of each tribe carried a staff of office. The tribes are also called shvatim, which means "rods".
What is the difference between a rod and a cane? Both are sticks, but a rod can be bent, while a cane is firm and hard.
A rod is a stick that was recently cut or is still attached to the tree where it grew. Unlike a cane, which is a stick that was cut from the tree a long time ago. Over time, the wood dried and became firmer and harder.
Before our souls descend to this world, they are like rods—connected to HaShem and easily turned and bent toward His holiness. But here, our souls are enclosed in material bodies that are like walking sticks—the holiness of HaShem is difficult to feel.
However, this does not mean that being tough and firm is bad. The positive expression of firmness is the strength that our souls possess and, through Torah study, we can reveal in order to overcome life's difficulties.
Adapted from Please tell me what the Rebbe says.