Numbers 33:1 - These are the journeys of the children of Israel, when they went out of the land of Egypt by their armies under the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Generated Verse: Numbers 33:1

What does "Numbers 33:1" mean?


This verse (Numbers 33:1) serves as an introduction to a long list of the Israelites' encampments and journeys during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Let's break it down:

"These are the journeys of the children of Israel...": This clearly indicates that what follows is a record of the different places where the Israelites stopped and traveled. The focus is on their movements.

"...when they went out of the land of Egypt...": This establishes the starting point of these journeys: the exodus from Egypt, their liberation from slavery.

"...by their armies...": This highlights the organized nature of the departure. While they were escaping slavery, they are portrayed as an organized group. The term "armies" (Hebrew: ṣĕ·ḇā·’ōṯ) suggests a structured formation, possibly divided into tribes or clans with leaders. It underscores the magnitude of the exodus as a large-scale, organized migration.

"...under the hand of Moses and Aaron.": This emphasizes the leadership and authority under which the exodus and subsequent journeys were undertaken. Moses was the primary leader, and Aaron served as his spokesman and high priest. This phrase places their guidance and direction as central to the Israelites' travels. The phrase "under the hand of" is an idiom signifying leadership, guidance, and authority.

In summary, Numbers 33:1 sets the stage for the detailed travelogue that follows by:

Introducing the subject: the journeys of the Israelites.
Defining the starting point: the exodus from Egypt.
Emphasizing the organized and large scale of the departure: by their armies.
Identifying the leadership: Moses and Aaron.

This verse serves as a heading, indicating that the following verses will document the specific locations and stages of the Israelites' journey from slavery to the Promised Land. It's a historical record meant to remind the Israelites of God's faithfulness and guidance throughout their arduous journey.

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